Study Of Boiler Optimization By Means Of Spectral Emission Analysis

Robert W. Astheimer

doi:10.1117/12.935785

4 November 1983 Study Of Boiler Optimization By Means Of Spectral Emission Analysis

Robert W. Astheimer

Proceedings Volume 0411, Electro-Optical Instrumentation for Industrial Applications; (1983) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.935785
Event: 1983 Technical Symposium East, 1983, Arlington, United States

Abstract

Spectral radiance measurements in the 1.7μm - 15μm region were made on the burner flames of several industrial boiler facilities using different fuels over a wide range of operating conditions. From these data, it was found that the ratio Ro of the flame radiance in two spectral bands is closely correlated to the excess air or fuel/air ratio at the burner. This ratio is dependent upon the load or fuel rate and it must be compensated for load changes. Under some conditions, another spectral ratio RL was found to be proportional to the load and can be used to correct Ro. By means of a simple algorithm involving Ro and RL (or the fuel rate), the excess air at an individual burner can be calculated. A simple prototype burner monitor was built which measured these two ratios simultaneously. This was tested on boiler facilities burning oil, gas and coal. It was found that this instrument would indicate the excess air at a burner to an accuracy of 1.5% (0.3% O2). In some cases, such as when firing, with gas, the RL ratio does not adequately correct for load changes and an external input of fuel or steam rate must be used instead of RL.

Citation Download Citation

Robert W. Astheimer "Study Of Boiler Optimization By Means Of Spectral Emission Analysis", Proc. SPIE 0411, Electro-Optical Instrumentation for Industrial Applications, (4 November 1983); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.935785

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