The following report was received from the
Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (
LDEQ) via email:
On August 30, 2023, at approximately 0900 [CDT], an Ohmart Model SH-F1-0 level/density gauge experienced a shutter malfunction during a routine semiannual shutter test. The gauge was installed on the Reactor 3, West Production vessel within the Poly Process Unit. The gauge possesses a nominal 500 millicurie sealed source of Cs-137. The above gauge was undergoing a routine semiannual shutter test when the malfunction was observed. The gauge sealed source serial number is: 1560CO. The device serial number has not been provided by the licensee. The gauge containing source number 1560CO, is mounted on the Reactor 3, West Production Chamber vessel in the polyethylene unit. On the above date, the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) for Union Carbide Corporation contacted BBP Sales (BBP), radioactive material license LA-10799-L01. BBP arrived on site on that day to repair the stuck shutter. After several unsuccessful attempts to break the shutter free, the licensee and the BBP service engineer decided the best course of action would be to order a rotor replacement kit and the BBP service engineer should return on site to replace it. BBP is currently awaiting delivery of the new rotor kit.
On October 2, 2023, at 0824, Union Carbide RSO notified the LDEQ concerning this equipment malfunction. According to RSO, the gauge rotor bracket broke due to corrosion, which prevented the gauge shutter from closing fully. The gauge is under the licensee's control. There were no exposures to members of the public approaching regulatory limits. Currently, the shutter on the gauge remains in the open position as the gauge source is needed to operate process control equipment. The gauge cannot be locked out in its current state. No entry to the vessel will be conducted until the gauge is repaired by BBP. The licensee will continue to monitor the gauge until repaired. The licensee stated they will keep the LDEQ updated on the progress of repairs."
Louisiana Event Report ID No.: LA230011