Titration and automation in the power industry

The Davis and Gray titration method for the determination of UF6 has long been used in the power industry, and can be automated using the Metrohm Titrando and Sample Processor

The tried and tested Davis and Gray method, although accurate and reproducible, is extremely time consuming and laborious as the solutions added prior to titration must be added within specified time constraints.

The solutions added (concentrated phosphoric acid, reducing agent, oxidising agent and vanadyl sulphate) are very dangerous.

Using the 814 Sample Processor and a Titrando titrator the whole system is automated and the %UF6 is determined the same way, sample, after sample, after sample.

Prior to the solution additions, the temperature of the sample is measured and is used in the subsequent calculation of the %UF6.

The solutions are added via 4 dosinos and the operator does not come into contact with any of the solutions whatsoever.

All the relevant pauses in between additions (essentially "reaction times") are set, so too are the increase or decrease of stirrer speeds during these additions.

The solution is then titrated against potassium dichromate, and the %UF calculated.

The sample beaker and electrode set-up is sprayed after the analysis with de-ionised water and all the hazardous waste is pumped away safely before moving on to the next sample.

Tiamo titration software controls the whole operation from beginning to end, and the results can be exported to a LIMS system should it be required.

The flexibility of the system can be tailored to almost any type titration that needs to be automated.

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