Abstract: A process seal (24) for separating the flowing material in a test chamber (5) from an antenna element (19) used to emit or receive a signal propagating through the test chamber. The process seal (24) includes a circumferential groove (47) which retains a sealing gasket (26) that permits the process seal to be mounted within an opening (11) in the chamber (5). The gasket (26) is formed with a t-shaped cross section (56) in which the narrow portion (62) of the cross section is formed with an inclined sidewall 63 which abuts a similarly inclined sidewall (65) on the process seal lip (46). An inner lobe of the cross section (56) fits within a groove (47) that is formed adjacent to the bottom surface (45) of the process seal (24). Captive clamping knobs (72, 73, 74, and 54) or captive bolts (14, 15, 16, and 55) fasten a probe assembly (1) including the antenna element (19) and the process seal (24) to the test chamber (5). An alternative process seal (77) permits the use of an O-ring (78).

Abstract: A test waveguide (33) for evaluating the performance of microwave probe assemblies (1, 13) and their associated analysis equipment is mounted on a stand (56). The test waveguide (33) includes geometry that is similar to that found on the test cell assembly (2) used during commercial production activities. The test waveguide (33) includes an unsealed interior space (41) that remains accessible while the probe assemblies (1, 13) are fastened to the test waveguide. One or more reference blocks (59) are formed having known characteristics that permit calibration and evaluation of the probe assemblies and their associated analysis equipment.

Abstract: A process seal (24) for separating the flowing material in a test chamber (5) from an antenna element (19) used to emit or receive a signal propagating through the test chamber. The process seal (24) includes a circumferential groove (47) which retains a sealing gasket (26) that permits the process seal to be mounted within an opening (11) in the chamber (5). The gasket (26) is formed with a t-shaped cross section (56) in which the narrow portion (62) of the cross section is formed with an inclined sidewall 63 which abuts a similarly inclined sidewall (65) on the process seal lip (46). An inner lobe of the cross section (56) fits within a groove (47) that is formed adjacent to the bottom surface (45) of the process seal (24). Captive clamping knobs (72, 73, 74, and 54) or captive bolts (14, 15, 16, and 55) fasten a probe assembly (1) including the antenna element (19) and the process seal (24) to the test chamber (5). An alternative process seal (77) permits the use of an O-ring (78).

Abstract: A resistance temperature detector (RTD) assembly (1) used for inserting a temperature sensor (18) into a pipe or containment vessel (62). The system (1) includes a connection head (2) that provides a path between a thermowell (10) containing the temperature sensor (18) and external data processing equipment. The thermowell (10) includes a shoulder region (26) that is shaped to accommodate an RTD seal (25) which provides a fluid impermeable clean in place barrier between the thermowell (10) and an interior region (64) of a fluid containing pipe or vessel (62) to which the thermowell is mounted. The RTD seal (25) is shaped and dimensioned to engage and abut various structural features of the shoulder region (26). The RTD seal (25) is formed as a single integrally molded article formed from a fluoroelastomer or peroxide cured nitrite rubber material.