On-Stream Particle-Size Analysis from Continuous Measurement of Pulp Density with Nuclear Gages

A simple on-stream particle-size analysis method is presented that leads to a bulk-property single-channel device; although the concept can be extended to multi-channel sizing information. The method is based on continuously measuring and comparing the percent solids in the sample stream and in an internal-reference stream containing only undersize particles. A semipermeable hydraulic system is used such that the particle mass concentration in the internal stream can vary, and is always proportional to the undersize particle mass concentration in the sample stream.