In collaboration with the Corporation for Research- and Developing Services, BASF in Ludwigshafen has recently developed a new testing machine for detecting liquid in pipes and machinery, which can be used quickly and easily. The new piece of equipment sends weak gamma rays through the pipes and drums of machinery, which then bounce back at different resonances depending on the whether there is any fluid present or not. An in-built computer measures the readings and compares them with saved patterns, in order to detect any of liquid such as chemicals that may have been left in the pipes and drums of machinery.

Remnants of liquid are a safety risk when maintenance work is carried out, especially in pipes that contain chemicals and need to be opened, says Werner Jung, who works in the safety and accident prevention department at BASF. The development of the new machine means that deposits and blockages can be detected safely from the exterior of the machinery.

The radiation emitted by the machine is far below the required critical value, therefore, the method is not harmful and can be used without taking special safety precautions, says Peter Rost, a materials expert who works with BASF.

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