An unstable or incorrect density reading does not always mean the gauge has failed. A density gauge measures a process condition, so the process itself, the installation, the detector, the electronics, the wiring and the calibration condition can all move the result.
This guide covers where to start when a reading looks wrong on a mining application. For the background on the measurement itself, see our guide on what a density gauge is and how it works.
- An unstable density reading can come from the process, the installation, the detector, the electronics, the wiring or the calibration condition.
- Check for changes in material, flow, solids concentration and build-up before assuming the gauge has failed.
- Only appropriately trained and authorised personnel should inspect or service radiation equipment.
- Accurate Industries can assess, service, repair and support density gauges used in mining and industrial applications.
Where should density gauge troubleshooting start?
Start by comparing the reading against what the process is actually doing. Check whether the material composition, the flow, the solids concentration, the pipe or vessel condition, the plant configuration or the operating mode has changed.
Build-up around the measurement area is another common starting point, because it changes what the measurement sees without anything failing electrically. Our guide on what a density gauge is and how it works lists the full set of factors that move a reading.
What can a technician inspect?
Depending on the equipment and the site requirements, an authorised technician may inspect the mounting arrangement, the detector and source assembly, cables, connections, electronics, process conditions, build-up, alarms, displayed values and calibration history.
The technician may also compare the gauge response against an appropriate reference or process check. The exact method depends on the gauge model and the application.
The density reading is unstable
An unstable result often tracks back to variable process flow, inconsistent solids concentration, air or voids, mechanical movement, build-up, signal problems or configuration. A service assessment needs to consider both the process and the instrument, because either can produce the same pattern.
The density reading is consistently wrong
A consistent offset points more towards calibration, process conditions, installation geometry, build-up, detector response or an issue with the reference measurement. Avoid repeatedly changing calibration values before establishing the cause, since that hides the underlying problem rather than fixing it.
Radiation safety
Some density gauges use a sealed radioactive source. Do not open, remove, bypass or interfere with the source or its shielding. Follow your site radiation procedures, and contact Accurate Industries or your site authorised radiation safety personnel if you have any concern about the equipment.
Need density gauge support?
We can assist with density gauge inspection, fault finding, calibration support, repairs and ongoing service and spares. Contact the team with the gauge details, the process application and the symptoms you are seeing.