Application of the ultrasonic technique for real-time holdup monitoring for the control of extraction columns

The noninvasive and nonintrusive ultrasonic technique developed by Bonnet and Tavlarides for phase fraction measurements in liquid-liquid column extractors is further developed to provide automatic multiple-point measurements for real-time holdup monitoring for the control of the extraction process. Multiple-point measurements provide information on the holdup profile along the extractor and are shown to be very useful for controlling the holdup near flooding. Results of dynamic tests are reported and open-loop data are discussed.