With the global energy market's increasing need for hydrogen (H2), proper flame detection and discrimination are crucial. Although ultraviolet detection is commonly utilized for H2 flame detection, it is only a tiny part of accurate detection.
H2 is frequently used in conjunction with variable ratios of natural gas or other gasses to produce fluctuating flame characteristics. The wavelength of a typical H2 flame ranges from 220nm to 600nm, most of the time being in the 300nm range. Although this is outside the standard detection range of Gieger-Muller tube technology, contemporary solid-state sensors are more than competent. The flame flicker frequency changes as the H2 / gas ratio changes, implying that proper detection and discrimination require flame scanner technology to address these shifting flame profiles.
Fireye's InSight® scanners have shown to be effective in various H2 and H2 / gas mixture applications. While different flame scanners can detect the UV signal, not all of them have the many frequency settings needed to detect and differentiate. The InSight® range from Fireye features 21 adjustable frequency ranges and the option to keep four alternative sets for multiple fuel variations. These memory values can be changed during detection using two-wire communication. Fireye's InSight® series is available in IR or UV or in a dual UV & IR configuration, allowing you to add IR detection to the flame discriminating profile if necessary. All Fireye InSight® scanners are now available in ATEX and IECEx hazardous environment versions.
Fireye's InSight® Features
- Infrared, ultraviolet or both
- 21 Frequency ranges
- State of the art algorithms • A TEX & IECEx options
- Global certifications
- SIL 3 certified