Anthony Ross Infrared Imaging of Black Liquor Droplets Team Members: Aaron Brandt Will Carter Brent Illingworth Matt Travis Academic Advisor: Dr. David Sailor Industry Advisor: Dan Higgins, P.E.
Background Kraft paper pulping process schematic
Mission Design an optical assembly Images are used to generate data Data is used to improve boiler model
Project timeline
Existing sizing techniques Laser – Detector Systems Laser passes through spray Photodetectors gather scattered light
Existing sizing techniques cont’ Imaging systems Light focused onto CCD to produce digital image Software analyzes images and outputs size Distance to droplets must be known
Sizing technique to be used Infrared imaging system Other systems infeasible Camera currently used for maintenance High contrast due to temperature difference Additional marketability of IR camera
Major requirements Depth of focus must be short enough Focal length must be adjustable and known Viewing angle must be adjustable Adequate cooling and cleaning
Depth of focus must be short enough Software will only measure droplets that are in focus Focal length can accurately be used as the distance to droplets Optics aperture affects depth of focus
Focal length must be adjustable and known Exact measurement region is unknown Needs to adapt to different boiler configurations Must be known to scale droplet image size to actual size Affects depth of focus & magnification
Focal length adjustment Dual lens system allows for focus adjustment Fine adjustment of rear lens necessary
Viewing angle must be adjustable Optics system will be inserted above spray
Viewing angle must be adjustable Mirror based system Fiber optics based system
Fiber optic imaging Fiber bundles Flexible Coherent Light entering and exiting must be parallel Many components available
Viewing Angle Adjustment Bracket assembly Planetary gear assembly
Cooling/Cleaning Compressed air on sight Safe to use in boiler Air purge system for lens cleaning Air flow limited by compressed air pressure One or two air ports could be used
Decision Matrix
Future considerations Optics system –Dimensions –Calibration –Depth of focus –Utilize manufacturer expertise Cooling system –Detailed analysis Thermal expansion –Material selection
Conclusion Existing sizing methods analyzed Infrared imaging confirmed as most feasible Major requirements established Possible solutions compared Overall concept decided
Complete Concept
Questions?