The MCP determines mixture composition by measuring sonic velocity and attenuation for
waves passing through a gap at the end of the probe. The ultrasonic sensors are sealed inside stainless steel so that nothing but the housing contacts the mixture. The slurry particle size is determined by making wave attenuation measurements over a wide range of ultrasonic frequencies. Because smaller particles result in more attenuation at higher frequencies, the mean particle size in slurry can be tracked by monitoring the frequencies of the peaks in the attenuation curve. The liquid fractions in the mixture are determined from the velocity readings (see below) and then displayed in real time on the operator touch panel.
