Source container FQG63

Summary

Product identification

The FQG63 is a source container designed for radiometric level, density, and interface measurement applications. It houses a radioactive source, screening radiation when in the "Off" position and allowing emission when positioned in a protection pipe within the process vessel in the "On" position.

Key Features and Benefits

• Lightweight design with spherical shape for effective screening.
• High safety classification (DIN 25426/ISO 2919, typical classification C66646).
• Flexible installation length up to 30 m (98 ft).
• Manual operation with padlock or locking bolt for securing switch positions.
• Clear indication of switch status.
• Compact and easy to mount.
• Includes adapter and centering flange for existing vessel flanges.
• Available in a fire-resistant version (+821 °C / 30 minutes).

Applications

The FQG63 is used for:

• Radiometric level limit measurement
• Level measurement
• Density measurement
• Interface measurement

Safety and Radiation Protection

• Follow all instructions in the Technical Information and relevant regulations for radioactive protection.
• The source holder with the radioactive source must only be operated within the provided double-walled protection pipe.
• Always secure the "OFF" position with a padlock.
• Switching "ON" requires specially trained personnel and verification that no personnel are in the radiation area.
• Avoid unnecessary radiation exposure by employing screening, minimizing time in exposed areas, and maintaining distance from the source.
• A handling permit and a nominated Radiation Safety Officer are legally required in many regions.
• The device contains lead (CAS No. 7439-92-1); observe national regulations if the vessel is damaged.

Mechanical Construction

Design and Dimensions

• Maximum installation length (L): 30000 mm (1181 in).
• Housing dimensions: 232 mm (9.13 in) height, 100 mm (3.94 in) width.
• Flange connection: DN 100 PN16 or ANSI 4" 150 lbs.
• Eccentricity: 9.5 mm (0.37 in).

Components

Key components include:

• Cylinder
• Locking bolts (No. 1 and No. 2)
• Padlocks (No. 1 and No. 2)
• Swivel insert
• Container with lead screening
• Ring eyelet
• Flange
• Adapter and centering flange
• Source holder rod
• Flexible extension element
• Compensation compartment (for fire-resistant version)

Materials

• Swivel insert, internal parts, housing, flange, and source holder rod: 316 L (1.4404/1.4435).
• Screening material: Lead.
• Source holder rope and rope extension: 2.4602 (Alloy C22).
• Gaskets: FKM.

Weight

• FQG63 (without adapter flange): Max. 87 kg (191.84 lbs).
• Fireproof version: Max. 88 kg (194.04 lbs).
• Adapter flange: Max. 10 kg (22.05 lbs).
• Rope extension (30 m): Max. 2.5 kg (5.51 lbs).

Ambient Conditions

• Ambient temperature:
  • Operating elements: -52 to +120 °C (-62 to +248 °F).
  • Flange: -52 to +200 °C (-62 to +392 °F).
• Process temperature: -52 to +400 °C (-62 to +752 °F).
• Ambient pressure: Atmospheric pressure.
• Vibration and shock resistance: IEC 60068-2-64 (10 to 2000 Hz; 1 g²/Hz), IEC 60068-2-27 (shock 30 g / 18 ms in OFF position).
• Fire resistance (fireproof version): 30 min. @ +821 °C (+1510 °F).

Installation

• Requires a customer-provided double-walled protection pipe.
• Mounting can be from above, side, or below.
• Maximum installation length: 4000 mm (157 in).
• The adapter and centering flange, along with seals, are fitted to the vessel flange.
• The source container is then mounted onto the adapter/centering flange.
• Torque for thread bolts (M16): approx. 146 Nm (107.68 lbf ft).
• Post-installation check: Measure local dose rate in the vicinity of the container, detector, and vessel. Control and exclusion areas must be defined and marked.

Operation

Switching Radiation ON

The procedure varies slightly depending on the ordering feature (Option B or C). Generally involves:

1. Removing the protection cap.
2. Connecting the flexible extension element.
3. Removing a padlock.
4. Actuating a locking bolt and turning the swivel insert 180°.
5. Allowing the locking bolt to engage in the "ON" position.
6. Sliding the flexible extension element into the source container.
7. Adjusting and tightening counter nuts for source position (+/- 40 mm). Torque: 12 Nm (8.85 lbf ft).
8. Fitting the protection cap.

Switching Radiation OFF

The procedure is the reverse of switching ON, generally involving:

1. Removing the protection cap.
2. Releasing the locking mechanism.
3. Pulling the flexible extension element off the source container.
4. Securing the position with a locking bolt.
5. Actuating a locking bolt and turning the swivel insert 180°.
6. Allowing the locking bolt to engage in the "OFF" position.
7. Securing with a padlock.
8. Disconnecting the flexible extension element.
9. Fitting the protection cap.

Maintenance and Inspection

• Cleaning: Clean with a damp cloth and water only. Observe safety instructions.
• Routine Inspections:
  • Visual check for corrosion.
  • Inspection of the flexible extension element for damage.
  • Test movability of the swivel insert.
  • Check connection of source holder and extension element.
  • Readability of labels and symbols.
  • Visual inspection of seals and reference O-ring.
• Routine test of the shutter mechanism: Ensure easy movement of the flexible extension element and swivel insert. Test switching between ON and OFF multiple times.
• Routine leak test procedure: Performed at intervals specified by the authority or handling authorization, or after an incident. A source is considered leaking if more than 185 Bq (5 nCi) is detected on a wipe sample (US limit).

Emergency Procedure

In case of incorrect function or suspected leakage, contact the responsible radiation safety officer. Non-routine repairs must be performed by authorized personnel.

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Disclaimer: Extraction may miss figures, footnotes, or revisions; contractual data must match the OEM PDF revision used on the project.

Official datasheet (PDF)

Lenntech datasheet mirror