Radiation Detector Array for Turbine Exhaust Temperature Profiling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Temperature variations across exhaust and steam flows in power generation systems, such as those involving gas turbines and heat recovery steam generators (HRSGs), lead to efficiency decreases and premature wear of components due to uneven heating and steam pressure issues.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a radiation detector array to measure thermal radiation from conduits within the fluid flow paths, providing a multi-dimensional temperature profile and detecting excessive temperature variations by comparing these to threshold values, allowing for timely adjustments to prevent component damage and maintain efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional temperature measurement methods are used in HRSG conduits, then direct temperature data can be obtained, but the measurement system becomes complex and requires intrusive installation that may affect system reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/intrusive temperature measurement devices with optical detection. The radiation detector array measures thermal radiation emitted by conduits non-contactly, substituting physical temperature sensors that would require installation inside conduits. This resolves the contradiction by achieving temperature measurement without mechanical intrusion, maintaining system reliability while obtaining precise temperature data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces thermal radiation as an intermediary carrier of temperature information. Instead of directly measuring temperature with sensors in contact with hot fluids, the system detects thermal radiation emitted by conduit surfaces, which serves as a mediator conveying temperature data from inaccessible locations. This intermediary approach simplifies the measurement system while maintaining accuracy.
2Productivity
If temperature variations in exhaust flow are not monitored, then the system operates simpler, but efficiency decreases and component wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the radiation detector array continuously monitors conduit temperatures, and the controller compares measured temperatures against expected ranges. When deviations are detected indicating efficiency problems or potential damage, the system can trigger alerts or adjustments. This feedback loop maintains high productivity by preventing efficiency losses while keeping the monitoring system relatively simple through automated comparison logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of temperature anomalies before they cause significant efficiency degradation or component damage. By continuously monitoring conduit temperatures and comparing against thresholds, the system can take preventive action early in the development of problems, maintaining productivity without requiring complex real-time control systems.
3Loss of information
If multiple temperature sensors are installed throughout the fluid flow path, then comprehensive temperature profiling is achieved, but system complexity and potential failure points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces multiple physical temperature sensors distributed throughout the flow path with a radiation detector array that measures thermal radiation from conduit surfaces. This non-contact optical method captures temperature distribution information across multiple locations simultaneously without installing intrusive sensors, thereby maintaining system reliability while avoiding information loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The radiation detector array serves multiple measurement functions simultaneously, capturing temperature information across the entire monitored section of the flow path with a single device. This multi-functional approach provides comprehensive temperature distribution data without requiring multiple separate sensors, reducing potential failure points while maintaining information completeness.
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 system effectively monitors and mitigates temperature variations, extending the lifespan of components and optimizing power generation efficiency by enabling proactive control measures.
Implementation Method 1
The radiation detector array is configured to output a signal indicative of a multi-dimensional temperature profile of the fluid flow path based on thermal radiation emitted by the conduits
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a radiation detector array configured to direct a field of view toward multiple conduits within a fluid flow path from a turbine into a heat exchanger. The radiation detector array is configured to output a signal indicative of a multi-dimensional temperature profile of the fluid flow path based on thermal radiation emitted by the conduits. The system also includes a controller communicatively coupled to the radiation detector array. The controller is configured to determine a temperature variation across the fluid flow path based on the signal, and to compare the temperature variation to a threshold value.