Cryogenic Vibration Sensor Insulation Block
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Cryogenic pumps face challenges with vibration sensors becoming saturated in extreme cold environments, leading to inaccurate monitoring due to exposure to cryogenic conditions, even when using cryogenic-rated accelerometers.
Innovation Solution
A vibration sensor configuration for cryogenic pumps that includes a cryogenic-rated accelerometer mounted to a top surface of an insulation block, which is attached to a pump component without direct contact, using an insulation block with a threaded opening for secure attachment, preventing signal saturation by isolating the accelerometer from direct contact with the pump component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the accelerometer is mounted directly to the pump housing, then the vibration sensor can detect pump vibrations, but the accelerometer signal becomes saturated leading to inaccurate monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
An insulation block is introduced as an intermediary component between the accelerometer and the pump housing. This block serves as a mediator that transmits vibration signals from the pump housing to the accelerometer while simultaneously providing thermal insulation to prevent the accelerometer from being exposed to cryogenic temperatures, thereby resolving the contradiction between achieving accurate vibration measurement and maintaining signal accuracy in extreme cold environments
2Ease of operation
If the vibration sensor is exposed to cryogenic conditions, then the sensor can be mounted directly to the pump, but the accelerometer signal saturation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The insulation block acts as a mediator that enables the accelerometer to be mounted on the pump housing while preventing direct exposure to cryogenic conditions. The block transmits mechanical vibration signals while blocking thermal energy transfer, thus maintaining measurement precision without compromising mounting simplicity
3Temperature
If a cryogenic-rated accelerometer is used, then the sensor can operate in cold environments, but signal saturation still occurs due to direct contact with cryogenic components
Solution Approach 1:
The insulation block serves as a thermal mediator that allows the cryogenic-rated accelerometer to operate within its temperature specifications while still accurately measuring vibrations. By blocking direct thermal contact with cryogenic pump components, the block prevents signal saturation and maintains signal integrity throughout the operating temperature range
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables accurate vibration measurement and alarm functionality even at cryogenic temperatures, preventing signal saturation and maintaining signal integrity by isolating the accelerometer from direct contact with the pump component, thus ensuring reliable monitoring of pump vibrations.
Implementation Method 1
an insulation block having a bottom surface in direct contact with the at least component and an accelerometer coupled to a top surface of the insulation block and free from direct contact with the at least one pump component
Data Source
AI summary
A cryogenic-rated vibration sensor generally includes a cryogenic-rated accelerometer mounted to a top planar surface of an insulation block, wherein the insulation block includes a threaded opening on a bottom planar surface thereof for attachment to an object. Also disclosed are cryogenic pumps including the cryogenic-rated vibration sensor.