FS-200 Flow Switches for Proton Therapy Coolant Lines
February 25, 2021
Proton therapy, or proton beam therapy, is a type of radiation medical treatment. It uses protons rather than X-rays to target the cancerous cells. The high-energy proton provides a more accurate and painless option for eliminating cancer cells. Additionally, there is less radiation exposure to healthy cells surrounding the cancerous tumor, thereby limiting any harmful and negative side effects.
Proton therapy utilizes a machine known as a synchrotron to accelerate protons and direct them to the desired depth and location within the body. However, during this process, high heat is generated in the machine. For the machine to operate correctly and efficiently, coolant lines are required to help dissipate the heat.
Challenge
Having a reliable flow switch that can handle high radiation and high voltage noise areas, ensuring high uptime of a lifesaving proton therapy machine.
Solution
FS-200 Series Flow Switch
Gems FS-200 Series in-line flow switch is a rugged sensor constructed of either 316 SS or Bronze. Its shuttle-based design allows for an efficient flow path, assuring low line pressure drop. This is crucial for a high-flow coolant system required for a proton therapy machine, as it must draw large amounts of heat away from the sensitive equipment.
With port sizes ranging from ¾” NPT to 2” NPT, it can handle flow rates from ½ GPM to 50 GPM. Additionally, once the setpoint is achieved, it exhibits excellent repeatability of 1%. This repeatability ensures that the FS-200 flow switch will accurately indicate a loss of flow every time. If your flow rates can vary and you’d like to have the ability to adjust your setpoint, the FS-200 is also available in three adjustment ranges.
All these features ensure that the FS-200 is an excellent fit for working well in the coolant flow lines of a life-saving piece of medical equipment.