—- Radiometric Measurement Products / Source Holders / Radiation Low Level
Low-Activity Source Holders for Simplified Radiometric Measurement
Ronan’s exclusive Radiation Low Level (RLL) source holders use very low cesium activity in compact configurations designed to reduce radiation levels while maintaining reliable measurement performance.
Radiation Low Level Source Holder
RLL is a Ronan Engineering term that stands for “Radiation Low Level.” RLL technology utilizes up to a total of 0.9 mCi (0.33 GBq) of cesium source. In comparison, some conventional density gamma gauges use source sizes with a hundred times more activity to make the same measurement. Because of these very low-levels of activity, and their simplicity of design, Ronan systems are the safest gamma gauges on the market. The NRC recognized this in 1999 when Ronan Engineering attained certification for the first RLL source design.
Ronan sizes the source to last a minimum of 15 years, usually 20-30 years. Our goal is to provide a minimum of 15 years of service on all source.
Ronan RLL “Radiation Low Level” Detector
Why Use a Low-Activity Configuration?
For suitable applications, reducing source activity can lower surface radiation levels and may reduce some of the long-term administrative and disposal burden associated with conventional radiometric installations. Ronan pairs low-activity sources with high-efficiency detector technology to achieve the required measurement response.
RLL Configurations
RLL-1
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- One (1) to ten (10) 0.09 mCi (0.003 GBq) cesium capsules
- Leak test is not required
- Does not require periodic shutter check¹
- Radiation Safety Officer and Special Radiation Training is not required by NRC
- Does not require licensed radiation personnel to install, commission or move the source on site
RLL-1A
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- Single 0.90 mCi (0.03 GBq) cesium capsule
- Leak test required every 3 years
- Does not require periodic shutter check¹
- Radiation Safety Officer and Special Radiation Training is not required by NRC
- Does not require licensed radiation personnel to install, commission or move the source on site
RLL-2
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- Strip source holder accommodates up to a total of 100 µCi (0.004 GBq) cesium 137
¹Per NRC guidelines, shutters are not required on source holders with less than 1 mCi (0.037 GBq) of cesium.
Other advantages include:
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- 0.5 mrem/hr @ 12″
- Lower disposal cost than conventional, higher intensity type gauges
- Lead free option available
- Fire resistant design available
- Less risk to users
- Less documentation to maintain
Cost of Ownership
Even though the initial equipment cost may be approximately 20% higher than conventional gamma gauges, the return on investment is almost immediate. The differential in equipment costs are offset by lower installation costs. RLL sources do not require licensed personnel to install, service or commission at their registered location. Whereas conventional source holders require licensed personnel. On-going maintenance costs are also lower as the RLL does not require periodic leak tests (RLL-1) or shutter checks as conventional sources do.
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- The RLL-type Gauge is approximately 100 lbs (45 kg), lighter than conventional type Gamma gauges which makes it easier to install.
- Supports are not required for installation on smaller, lighter piping.
- The RLL source holder is also smaller in overall dimensions (6 in, 15 cm) than conventional type Gamma gauges.
Ronan’s exclusive RLL gauges are dependable and provide repeatable measurement while being easy to install, calibrate and maintain.
Ronan can utilize low-level technology because our only focus is on non-contact measurement gauges. We use scintillation type detectors and cut and polish the crystals at our facility. Spring pressure holds the crystal securely to the photo-multiplier tube. We do not use cements, glue or grease that can degrade or break the connection between the crystal and photo-multiplier tube. Ronan typically uses larger crystal sizes, which enables us to measure a larger sample of the product in the pipe. Ronan’s microprocessor utilizes the latest technology in the industry.
Ronan’s exclusive Radiation Low Level (RLL) technology uses source activity up to 100 times lower than traditional radiometric gauges.
RLL gauges are dependable and provide repeatable measurement while being easy to install, calibrate, and maintain.
RLL Source Holders Technical Documents
About
For more than 60 years, Ronan Engineering has manufactured reliable and leading-edge instrumentation systems. As providers of real-time monitoring and measurements of critical process control points, Ronan has kept some of the world’s largest plants, factories, and facilities running safely and efficiently. Ronan has established manufacturing, sales and service facilities in Kentucky and the United Kingdom.