NZ626125B2 - Device and method for detecting deposits - Google Patents
Device and method for detecting deposits Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- NZ626125B2 NZ626125B2 NZ626125A NZ62612512A NZ626125B2 NZ 626125 B2 NZ626125 B2 NZ 626125B2 NZ 626125 A NZ626125 A NZ 626125A NZ 62612512 A NZ62612512 A NZ 62612512A NZ 626125 B2 NZ626125 B2 NZ 626125B2
- Authority
- NZ
- New Zealand
- Prior art keywords
- reflecting
- wall
- deposits
- heating means
- area
- Prior art date
Links
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 78
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 64
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 13
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- XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N iron Chemical compound [Fe] XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 22
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 19
- PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N nickel Chemical compound [Ni] PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 18
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 claims description 16
- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 13
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 claims description 13
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 13
- 239000012212 insulator Substances 0.000 claims description 12
- 229910052742 iron Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 11
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 10
- 229910052759 nickel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 9
- 210000001503 Joints Anatomy 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 claims description 6
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- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 claims description 5
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- 229910052748 manganese Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000011572 manganese Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 229910045601 alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000956 alloy Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- REDXJYDRNCIFBQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium(3+) Chemical class [Al+3] REDXJYDRNCIFBQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 3
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- 229920000136 polysorbate Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
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- 239000003139 biocide Substances 0.000 description 13
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- 244000005700 microbiome Species 0.000 description 5
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- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 5
- 239000000356 contaminant Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229910001369 Brass Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000010951 brass Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005260 corrosion Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005265 energy consumption Methods 0.000 description 3
- 235000002908 manganese Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 150000004760 silicates Chemical class 0.000 description 3
- 241000894006 Bacteria Species 0.000 description 2
- TZCXTZWJZNENPQ-UHFFFAOYSA-L Barium sulfate Chemical compound [Ba+2].[O-]S([O-])(=O)=O TZCXTZWJZNENPQ-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 2
- 241000195493 Cryptophyta Species 0.000 description 2
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- 239000004696 Poly ether ether ketone Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- VTYYLEPIZMXCLO-UHFFFAOYSA-L calcium carbonate Chemical compound [Ca+2].[O-]C([O-])=O VTYYLEPIZMXCLO-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 2
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 description 2
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- 238000005086 pumping Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- -1 tape Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910000554 Admiralty brass Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229960005261 Aspartic Acid Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229940092690 Barium Sulfate Drugs 0.000 description 1
- ABLZXFCXXLZCGV-UHFFFAOYSA-L CHEBI:8154 Chemical class [O-]P([O-])=O ABLZXFCXXLZCGV-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 1
- 229960005069 Calcium Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229960003563 Calcium Carbonate Drugs 0.000 description 1
- BVKZGUZCCUSVTD-UHFFFAOYSA-L Carbonate dianion Chemical compound [O-]C([O-])=O BVKZGUZCCUSVTD-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 1
- 229910000881 Cu alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229920002444 Exopolysaccharide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- CKLJMWTZIZZHCS-REOHCLBHSA-N L-aspartic acid Chemical compound OC(=O)[C@@H](N)CC(O)=O CKLJMWTZIZZHCS-REOHCLBHSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229940116542 OTHER NUTRIENTS in ATC Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229920000388 Polyphosphate Polymers 0.000 description 1
- NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylic acid Chemical compound OC(=O)C=C NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminum Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 235000003704 aspartic acid Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- OYPRJOBELJOOCE-UHFFFAOYSA-N calcium Chemical compound [Ca] OYPRJOBELJOOCE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052791 calcium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011575 calcium Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910000019 calcium carbonate Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229910010293 ceramic material Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- GUTLYIVDDKVIGB-UHFFFAOYSA-N cobalt Chemical compound [Co] GUTLYIVDDKVIGB-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052803 cobalt Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010941 cobalt Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001577 copolymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 1
- VZCYOOQTPOCHFL-UHFFFAOYSA-N fumaric acid Chemical compound OC(=O)C=CC(O)=O VZCYOOQTPOCHFL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000003292 glue Substances 0.000 description 1
- PCHJSUWPFVWCPO-UHFFFAOYSA-N gold Chemical compound [Au] PCHJSUWPFVWCPO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052737 gold Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010931 gold Substances 0.000 description 1
- 231100000206 health hazard Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 229920001519 homopolymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000000017 hydrogel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000004679 hydroxides Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000001023 inorganic pigment Substances 0.000 description 1
- FYYHWMGAXLPEAU-UHFFFAOYSA-N magnesium Chemical compound [Mg] FYYHWMGAXLPEAU-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052749 magnesium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011777 magnesium Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011976 maleic acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007769 metal material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005272 metallurgy Methods 0.000 description 1
- CERQOIWHTDAKMF-UHFFFAOYSA-N methacrylic acid Chemical compound CC(=C)C(O)=O CERQOIWHTDAKMF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002906 microbiologic Effects 0.000 description 1
- MUBZPKHOEPUJKR-UHFFFAOYSA-L oxalate Chemical compound [O-]C(=O)C([O-])=O MUBZPKHOEPUJKR-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 1
- 235000021317 phosphate Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 150000003013 phosphoric acid derivatives Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000001205 polyphosphate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000011176 polyphosphates Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000001681 protective Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002285 radioactive Effects 0.000 description 1
- XOROGAYSRYIXBN-UHFFFAOYSA-L radium;sulfate Chemical compound [Ra].[O-]S([O-])(=O)=O XOROGAYSRYIXBN-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 1
- 229920005989 resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000011347 resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052709 silver Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000004332 silver Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007790 solid phase Substances 0.000 description 1
- QAOWNCQODCNURD-UHFFFAOYSA-L sulfate Chemical compound [O-]S([O-])(=O)=O QAOWNCQODCNURD-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 1
- 229920001897 terpolymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229910052718 tin Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- ATJFFYVFTNAWJD-UHFFFAOYSA-N tin hydride Chemical compound [Sn] ATJFFYVFTNAWJD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 1
- HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N zinc Chemical compound [Zn] HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052725 zinc Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011701 zinc Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01B—MEASURING LENGTH, THICKNESS OR SIMILAR LINEAR DIMENSIONS; MEASURING ANGLES; MEASURING AREAS; MEASURING IRREGULARITIES OF SURFACES OR CONTOURS
- G01B17/00—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
- G01B17/02—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic vibrations for measuring thickness
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N17/00—Investigating resistance of materials to the weather, to corrosion, or to light
- G01N17/008—Monitoring fouling
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
- G01N2291/02—Indexing codes associated with the analysed material
- G01N2291/023—Solids
- G01N2291/0231—Composite or layered materials
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
- G01N2291/02—Indexing codes associated with the analysed material
- G01N2291/023—Solids
- G01N2291/0237—Thin materials, e.g. paper, membranes, thin films
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
- G01N2291/02—Indexing codes associated with the analysed material
- G01N2291/028—Material parameters
- G01N2291/0289—Internal structure, e.g. defects, grain size, texture
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
- G01N2291/04—Wave modes and trajectories
- G01N2291/044—Internal reflections (echoes), e.g. on walls or defects
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
- G01N2291/04—Wave modes and trajectories
- G01N2291/045—External reflections, e.g. on reflectors
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
- G01N2291/10—Number of transducers
- G01N2291/101—Number of transducers one transducer
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
- G01N2291/26—Scanned objects
- G01N2291/263—Surfaces
- G01N2291/2636—Surfaces cylindrical from inside
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N29/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N29/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object
- G01N29/04—Analysing solids
- G01N29/043—Analysing solids in the interior, e.g. by shear waves
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N29/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object
- G01N29/44—Processing the detected response signal, e.g. electronic circuits specially adapted therefor
Abstract
The present invention relates to a device and a method for detecting deposits in a reflecting area inside a liquid-bearing system comprising an ultrasonic transducer for emitting an ultrasonic emission signal towards the reflecting area and a detection means for detecting an ultrasonic reflection signal obtained by reflection of the ultrasonic emission signal in the area of the reflecting area, wherein the device further comprises heating means for increasing the temperature of the reflecting area. The heating means is connected to a wall of the reflecting area. gnal obtained by reflection of the ultrasonic emission signal in the area of the reflecting area, wherein the device further comprises heating means for increasing the temperature of the reflecting area. The heating means is connected to a wall of the reflecting area.
Description
1
DESCRIPTION
Device and method for detecting deposits
BACKGROUND
[0001] The present invention relates to a device and a method for detecting and analyz-
ing deposits.
[0002] Industrial plants, like power plants, steel mills, pulp or paper making plants, usu-
ally comprise means for conducting or storing fluids, e.g. pipe lines or fluid containers. It is a
known issue that organic and inorganic matter deposits on the inner walls of these means for
conducting or storing fluids, whereby an accumulation of fouling or scaling deposits at least
partially blocks the flow through the conducting means and conducted or stored fluids may
become contaminated. This is an unwanted occurrence that causes a number of operational
problems such as plugging of equipment, inefficient usage of chemicals, increased utility
costs, lost production due to downtime, corrosion, and downgraded products from increased
dirt counts.
[0003] In principle, one can distinguish between fouling deposits on the one hand and
scaling deposits on the other hand. Fouling deposits are organic deposits which often occur
in the form of biofilms in aqueous systems. Such biofilms substantially consist of micro-
organisms, e.g. bacteria, algae, fungi and protozoa. Contrary thereto, scale depositions oc-
cur from inorganic matter that have been identified include e.g. complexes of calcium (carbo-
nate, oxalate, sulfate, silicates), aluminum (silicates, hydroxides, phosphates), barium sul-
fate, radioactive radium sulfate, and silicates of magnesium.
[0004] In order to avoid the accumulation of fouling deposits and in particular the growth
of biofilms, biocides are added into the fluid concerned as countermeasures. Scaling depo-
sits can be removed by adding chemical deposit control agents based on homopolymers,
copolymers and terpolymers of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, maleic acid and aspartic acid.
Furthermore the chemical depost control agents can be based on organic phosphonates and
their derivatives, as well as on polyphosphates.
[0005] The dosage of these biocides and chemical deposit control agents has to be ac-
complished very carefully and conservative because they are very expensive and pose a
2
health hazard. It is thus necessary to distinguish between scaling and fouling deposits and to
determine the thickness of the scaling or fouling deposits.
[0006] A method and a device for high precision measurement of a characteristic of a
fouling or scaling deposit inside a fluid vessel is disclosed in the prior art document WO 2009
/ 141 135 A1. An ultrasonic emission signal is emitted by an ultrasonic transducer towards a
reflecting area inside the fluid vessel and a distance between the ultrasonic transducer and
the reflecting area or between the ultrasonic transducer and a deposit onto the reflecting
area is measured by means of evaluating the time-domain reflective signal of the reflecting
area or of the deposit covering the reflecting area. The measured distance is compared to a
reference distance which has been measured in an initial calibration measurement step with-
out any deposits onto the reflecting area. The difference between the measured distance and
the reference distance is a measure for the thickness of the deposition. A disadvantage of
this method is that the real distance between the ultrasonic transducer and the reflective area
changes e.g. with the temperature or the pressure inside the fluid vessel. Therefore, the cur-
rent distance between the ultrasonic transducer and the reflective area at the time of mea-
surement cannot accurately defined by a previously measured reference distance. Conse-
quently, the measurement of the thickness of the deposits comprises an unknown offset de-
pending on operational conditions, like pressure and temperature.
[0007] Industrial plants usually comprise multiple functional units, like boiler, heat ex-
changer, condenser, mixer, for instance. These multiple functional units are connected to
each other, in particular in series and/or in parallel, via connection pipes and the like.
[0008] A problem of known devices for measuring fouling or scaling deposits in an in-
dustrial plant is that it is difficult to install suchlike measuring devices inside of the functional
units because of e.g. limited installation space or excessively elevated temperatures inside
the functional units. Consequently, the devices are provided usually at or in the connecting
pipes between the functional units, even though the temperatures inside of the functional
units are regularly higher than in the connecting pipes, in particular when the functional unit
comprises e.g. a boiler. This is disadvantageous for the quality of the measurements be-
cause higher temperatures increase the growth of fouling, so that there is frequently a higher
accumulation of deposits inside the functional units than inside of the connection pipes. Con-
sequently, the results measured in the connecting tubes are falsified and the thickness of
deposits in the relevant areas cannot be accurately determined.
[0009] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a device and a method
for detecting fouling and/or scaling deposits that allow a precise determination of deposits of
3
fouling and/or scaling in a functional unit, even if the device cannot be installed directly inside
of the functional unit because of e.g. limited installation space.
[0010] An additional or alternative object of preferred embodiments of the present inven-
tion is to address some of the aforementioned disadvantages. An additional or alternative
object is to at least provide the public with a useful choice
SUMMARY
[0011]
[0012] The object of the present invention is achieved by a device for detecting deposits
in a reflecting area inside a liquid-bearing system comprising an ultrasonic transducer for
emitting an ultrasonic emission signal towards the reflecting area and a detection means for
detecting an ultrasonic reflection signal obtained by reflection of the ultrasonic emission sig-
nal in the area of the reflecting area, wherein the device further comprises heating means for
increasing the temperature of the reflecting area.
[0013] In one aspect the invention comprises ** claim 1 **
[0014] The term 'comprising' as used in this specification means 'consisting at least in
part of'. When interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term 'com-
prising', features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related
terms such as 'comprise' and 'comprises' are to be interpreted in the same manner.
[0015] In a further aspect the invention comprises ** method claim 18 **
[0016] it is advantageously possible to increase the temperature in the reflecting area,
so that the actual conditions inside of a functional unit which is in fluid connection with the
liquid-bearing system can actively be simulated at the installation area of the device. If the
effective temperature in the area of the reflecting area is set by the heating means to the
actual temperature inside of the functional unit, the accumulation of deposits in the reflecting
area should be very similar to the accumulation of deposits in the functional unit. Advanta-
geously, the accumulation of fouling and/or scaling deposits inside of the functional unit can
be accurately measured without a need for installing the measuring unit directly into the func-
tional unit. As a result of installing the device outside of the functional unit the device be-
comes better available for maintenance or repair work and installation costs can be reduced.
A further advantage of this solution is that the device does not influence the functioning of the
functional unit and that existing plants can easily be upgraded with suchlike measurement
4
devices. The liquid-bearing system in the sense of the present inventions comprises prefera-
bly a pipe or a tube which is at least temporarily in fluid connection with a functional unit, pre-
ferably a supply line for supplying liquid to the functional unit or a drain line for draining liquid
from the functional unit. It is also conceivable that the pipe or tube is connected parallel to
the functional unit. Alternatively, the liquid-bearing system can also be a fluid container which
is only temporarily in fluid connection with the functional unit. Preferably, the liquid-bearing
system comprises a tube being a part of the device. Particularly preferably, the reflecting
area is also a part of the device, wherein the reflecting area is located inside the tube and/or
inside a tube wall. The tube is suitable for connection e.g. with a liquid-bearing pipeline of the
functional unit. In particular, the device comprises a reflecting wall comprising and working as
the reflecting area.
[0017] In particular, the wording “deposits” in the sense of the present inventions stands
for any kind of organic or inorganic contaminants and deposits that occurs in liquid-bearing
systems, like e.g. circuits, pipes or containers. Suchlike deposits occur e.g. in the form of
films (also called "fouling"). These are formed primarily in aqueous systems at the interface
with a solid phase. In case of micro-organisms caused films, they consist of a slimy layer in
which micro-organisms (e.g. bacteria, algae, fungi, and protozoa) are embedded. As a rule,
these films contain, other than the micro-organisms, primarily water and extra-cellular poly-
meric substances exuded by the micro-organisms which, in conjunction with the water, form
hydro-gels and contain other nutrients or substances. Often, particles are included in the
resulting slimy matrix that is found in the aqueous medium adjacent the interface. The films
which occurs e.g. in papermaking plant are characterized by the fact that it contains a high
proportion of fibers, fine substances, and inorganic pigments that are bound by the organic
matrix. Such films typically are accompanied by protective exopolysaccharides ("slime", EPS)
of microbiological sources and occur at the interface of these equipment surfaces and
process water streams. Additionally, inorganic contaminants, such as calcium carbonate
("scale") and organic contaminants often deposit on such surfaces. These organic contami-
nants are typically known as "pitch" (e.g., resins from wood) and "stickies" (e.g., glues, adhe-
sives, tape, and wax particles).
[0018] Described herein is an embodiment in which the heating means is directly
coupled to the reflecting area, wherein preferably the heating means is rigidly coupled to the
reflecting area by conducting means made of a thermally conductive material. It is herewith
advantageously possible to achieve a efficient heat transfer from the heating means to the
reflecting area. As a result, the energy consumption of the device can be reduced. This is
particularly important when the reflecting area is heated permanently in order to continuously
simulate the development of deposits similar to that in the functional units.
5
[0019] Described herein as an embodiment wherein the reflecting area is provided at
least partially by a reflecting wall, preferably the reflecting wall comprises a wall portion of the
liquid-bearing system and/or at least works as a wall portion of the liquid-bearing system.
Advantageously, the reflecting wall is perfectly integrated into the wall of a liquid-bearing sys-
tem without causing turbulences in the flow of the liquid through the liquid-bearing system
when the liquid-bearing system comprises a liquid pipe. Preferably, the reflecting wall com-
prises an inner side facing the ultrasonic transducer and an outer side facing away from the
ultrasonic transducer, wherein the heating means is connected to the outer side of the re-
flecting wall, so that a comparatively efficient heat transfer between the heating device and
the reflecting wall is provided one the one hand and the flow of the liquid is not affected on
the other hand.
[0020] Preferably, the device comprises a reflecting unit comprising the heating means,
the heat conducting means and the reflecting wall, wherein the reflecting unit is preferably
detachably connected to the liquid-bearing system in such a manner that the reflecting wall
protrudes into an opening in the wall of the liquid-bearing system. It is herewith advanta-
geously possible to assemble the device quickly and easily in the liquid-bearing system. In
particular, the reflecting unit is connected to the liquid-bearing system by means of connect-
ing joints, in particular a screw joint. In order to seal the opening in the liquid-bearing system,
a sealing means is preferably provided between the reflecting wall and the wall of the liquid-
bearing system surrounding the reflecting wall. The sealing means comprise e.g. a seal-ring
in the form of an o-ring. The seal ring is located in groove in the wall of the liquid-bearing
system or of the reflecting wall. In order to simplify the installation of the device, the device
comprises preferably a measuring unit comprising the ultrasonic transducer and the detec-
tion means, wherein the measuring unit is detachably connected to the liquid-bearing system
in such a manner that the measuring unit and the reflecting unit are located on opposite
sides of the liquid-bearing system.
[0021] Described herein is an embodiment wherein the heat conducting means com-
prises a holder having a recess, in which the heating means is accommodated, and wherein
the heat conducting means comprises the reflecting wall, wherein an inner side of the reflect-
ing wall faces the ultrasonic transducer. Preferably, the holder comprises a metal material
having a comparatively good thermal conductivity. The holder is e.g. made of iron, steel,
cooper, brass, stainless steel, silver, gold or the like. It is conceivable that the brass is Admi-
ralty brass containing about 29% zinc, about 1% tin and about 70% copper. Preferably, the
holder comprises or is made of copper, particularly preferably the holder comprises or is
made of an alloy which comprises copper, nickel and iron (CuNiFe), or copper, nickel, iron
and manganese (CuNiFeMn), or copper, nickel, iron and cobalt (CuNiFeCo). In a preferred
6
embodiment, the holder is made of CuNiFeMn, wherein the weight percent of copper is in the
range from 86 to 89,7, wherein the weight percent of nickel is in the range from 9 to 11,
wherein the weight percent of iron is in the range from 1 to 2 and wherein the weight percent
of manganese is in the range from 0,5 to 1. In a most preferred embodiment, the weight per-
cent of nickel is 10 and the weight percent of iron is 1,6. In particular, the material of the
holder corresponds to the material quoted in the official material data sheet “CuNi10Fe1Mn”
issued 2012 from “Deutsches Kupferinstitut”. The usage of the cited materials provides a
holder with a very good thermal conductivity and simultaneously a good resistance to water.
[0022] Alternatively, the holder is made of a first material and comprises a coating of a
second material in the reflecting area. Preferably, the first material comprises a good heat
conductivity, like copper, wherein the second material preferably comprises a more corrosion
resistant material and/or a material matching the material characteristics of the liquid-bearing
system or of the functional unit to be emulated. Preferably, the coating is made of stainless
steel. Preferably, the recess is provided in such a manner that the electrical cartridge heater
is arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tube, so that the efficiency of the heat trans-
fer from the electrical cartridge heater to the reflecting wall through the holder can be in-
creased.
[0023] Described herein is an embodiment wherein the reflecting unit comprises a heat
insulator isolating the heating means and the reflecting wall from the wall of the fluid vessel
surrounding the reflecting wall, preferably the heat insulator is provided between the reflect-
ing wall and the connecting joints and particularly preferably the heat insulator encapsulates
at least partially the heating means. Advantageously, the heat insulator prevents at least par-
tially a heat transfer from the heating means to the wall of the fluid vessel surrounding the
reflecting wall, so that the energy consumption for increasing the temperature of the reflect-
ing wall can be reduced. The heat insulator is e.g. made of a polymer, like Polyether ether
ketone (PEEK), for instance.
[0024] Preferably, the device comprises a temperature sensor, wherein the temperature
sensor is preferably provided between the heating means and the reflecting area, so that the
actual temperature in the reflecting area can be measured and monitored in order to avoid
overheating and/or to setup a certain reference temperature. Preferably, the temperature
sensor is integrated into the reflecting wall. It is conceivable that the outer side of the reflect-
ing wall is provided with a cavity which at least partially encloses the temperature sensor.
Preferably, the device comprises two temperature sensors which are located inside the hold-
er and near the reflecting wall. The usage of two temperature sensors enables the determi-
nation of a temperature at the reflecting wall.
7
[0025] Described herein is an embodiment wherein the device comprises an analyzing
unit which is configured to analyze the distribution of the temperature measured by the tem-
perature sensor in order to determine whether deposits are located in the reflecting area
and/or to determine the type and/or the thickness of a layer of deposits in the reflecting area.
It is advantageously possible to determine whether deposits are located in the reflecting area
simply by monitoring the distribution of the temperature in the reflecting area over time (by
aid of the temperature sensor) because if the heating power remains constant and a layer of
deposits growths on the reflecting area the effective thermal conductivity of the reflecting wall
changes (decreases) which leads to corresponding signals in the distribution of the tempera-
ture over time detectable by the analyzing unit. The shape of the changes in the distribution
is furthermore a measure for the type of the deposits, e.g. scaling or fouling deposits, be-
cause the heat transfer characteristic between the reflecting wall (e.g. made from metal) and
fouling differs from the heat transfer characteristic between the reflecting wall (e.g. made
from metal). In a similar way, also the thickness of the layer of deposits can be estimated by
analyzing the shape of the changes in the distribution or by comparing the actual distribution
with a reference distribution (which has been determined in reference measurements, for
instance). Preferably, the thickness of the layer of scale deposits is determined by analyzing
the run time of the ultrasonic reflection signal.
[0026] Described herein is a method for detecting fouling and/or scaling deposits in a
reflecting area inside a fluid vessel comprising a step of emitting an ultrasonic emission sig-
nal towards the reflecting area by an ultrasonic transducer and a step of detecting an ultra-
sonic reflection signal obtained by reflection of the ultrasonic emission signal in the area of
the reflecting area by detection means, wherein the temperature of the reflecting area is in-
creased by heating means.
[0027] It is herewith advantageously possible to actively control the temperature in the
reflecting area. Consequently, the accumulation of deposits during arbitrarily and user-
defined temperature conditions can be simulated. In particular, the method according to the
present invention allows to indirectly determine the accumulation of deposits inside of a func-
tional unit without installing the measurement device directly in this functional unit by simulat-
ing the actual temperature conditions inside the corresponding functional unit in the reflecting
area.
[0028] Preferably, the reflecting area is heated by direct heat input from the heating
means, wherein the heat is conducted from the heating means to the reflecting area via con-
ducting means made of a thermally conductive material which is rigidly coupled to the reflect-
ing area and to the heating means. It is herewith possible to establish a comparatively effi-
cient heat transfer and to reduce energy consumption.
8
[0029] Described herein is an embodiment wherein the temperature of the reflecting
area is measured by a temperature sensor. Preferably, the heating means is controlled in
dependency of a temperature determined by the temperature sensor, preferably the heating
means is controlled in such a manner that the temperature determined by the temperature
sensor corresponds to a predefined reference value. Advantageously, the temperature of the
reflecting area is set to the desired predefined reference value and/or maintained on the ref-
erence temperature by means of a control loop. The reference value is preferably determined
by measuring an actual temperature inside the corresponding functional unit which has to be
monitored, so that the temperature in the reflecting area always corresponds with the actual
temperature in the functional unit.
[0030] Further, the method comprises preferably a step of analyzing if fouling and/or
scaling deposits are deposited in the reflecting area and to determine the thickness of the
fouling and/or scaling deposits in the reflecting area. Particularly preferably, the method is
capable to distinguish whether fouling or scaling deposits are deposited in the reflecting area.
[0031] Described herein as an embodiment wherein the heating means is controlled in
such a manner that the heating power provided by the heating means remains substantially
constant. As described already above, it is advantageously possible to determine whether
deposits are located in the reflecting area simply by monitoring the distribution of the temper-
ature in the reflecting area over time (by aid of the temperature sensor) because if the heat-
ing power remains constant and a layer of deposits growths on the reflecting area the effec-
tive thermal conductivity of the reflecting wall changes which leads to corresponding detecta-
ble signals in the distribution of the temperature over time. Consequently, the distribution of
the temperature measured by the temperature sensor is preferably analyzed by the analyz-
ing unit in order to determine whether deposits are located in the reflecting area and/or in
order to determine the thickness of a layer of deposits in the reflecting area and/or in order to
determine if fouling and/or scaling deposits are deposited in the reflecting area. It is herewith
advantageously possible to estimate if a layer of deposits are deposited inside of the func-
tional units simply by monitoring the course of the temperature. If deposits are detected it is
furthermore advantageously possible to estimate the type (e.g. scaling or fouling) and the
quantity (e.g. thickness) of the accumulated deposits in the functional units simply by analyz-
ing the shape of the changes in the course of the temperature over time. Consequently, ap-
propriate countermeasures, like adding biocides into the liquid medium and into the liquid-
bearing system, can be initiated, if necessary. Preferably, the thickness of the layer of scale
deposits is determined by analyzing the run time of the ultrasonic reflection signal.
[0032] It is conceivable that the measuring unit operates as disclosed in WO 2009 / 141
135 A1. For further embodiments and details of the method and the device according to the
9
present invention, a reference is made to the disclosure of WO 2009 / 141 135 A1 which is
incorporated herewith by reference.
[0033] Described herein is an embodiment wherein the heating means is controlled in
such a manner that the heating power provided by the heating means remains substantially
constant, wherein the course of the temperature, measured by the at least one temperature
sensor, over time is monitored and wherein an accumulation of deposits onto the reflecting
wall is determined or notified when a change in the course of the temperature over time is
detected. If the temperature of the reflecting wall remains constant, there is no measurable
accumulation of deposits onto the reflecting wall 8, at all. But, if the temperature of the re-
flecting wall changes over time while the temperature and the flow rate of the liquid medium,
as well as the heating power remain constant, this is an indicator that a layer of deposits has
grown onto the reflecting wall because the layer of deposits changes the effective thermal
conductivity of the holder and the reflecting wall. It is herewith advantageously possible to
detect the accumulation of deposits onto the reflecting wall, independently of the kind of de-
posits. Based on the magnitude of temperature change over time, also a quantitative state-
ment about the thickness of the biofilm can be made.
[0034] Described herein as an embodiment wherein a run time of the ultrasonic reflec-
tion signal is compared with a reference run time, if accumulation of deposits is determined
or notified, wherein an accumulation of scale deposits is determined or notified, when both a
change in the course of the temperature over time and a difference between the run time of
the ultrasonic reflection signal and the reference run time are detected, and wherein an ac-
cumulation of fouling deposits is determined or notified, when a change in the course of the
temperature over time and no significant difference between the run time of the ultrasonic
reflection signal and the reference run time are detected. If the measured run time and the
reference run time are substantially equal to each other, the ultrasonic emission signal has
been reflected by the reflecting wall and not by a layer of deposits. Nevertheless, the deter-
mined temperature change in the reflecting wall is a measure for the presence of deposits on
the reflecting wall. This means that the layer of deposits covering the reflecting wall is trans-
parent for ultrasonic waves and therefore do not reflect the ultrasonic emission signal. Con-
sequently, it can be determined that the layer of deposits mainly consists of fouling deposits
(also referred to as organic deposits). If the measured run time is smaller than the reference
run time, the ultrasonic emission signal has been reflected by the upper surface of the layer
of deposits. In this case, it can be concluded that the layer of deposits is not transparent for
ultrasonic waves. This means that the layer of deposits consists of scaling deposits compris-
ing inorganic matter. The thickness of the layer of scale can directly be calculated from the
difference between the measured run time and the reference run time by taking into account
10
the speed of sound in water. It is herewith advantageously possible to detect the presence of
any kind of deposits on the reflecting wall, to determine the type of deposits (organic or inor-
ganic deposits) accumulated on the reflecting wall, and to calculate the thickness of the layer
of deposits on the reflecting wall. Furthermore, the temperature conditions inside a functional
unit can be simulated.
[0035] These and other characteristics, features and advantages of the present inven-
tion will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with
the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the inven-
tion. The description is given for the sake of example only, without limiting the scope of the
invention. The reference figures quoted below refer to the attached drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0036] Figure 1 illustrates schematically a device and a method for detecting and ana-
lyzing fouling and/or scaling deposits according to an exemplary first embodiment of the pre-
sent invention.
[0037] Figures 2a, 2b and 2c illustrate schematically a device for detecting fouling
and/or scaling deposits according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present inven-
tion.
[0038] Figures 3a, 3b and 3c illustrate schematically a device for detecting fouling
and/or scaling deposits according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention.
[0039] Figure 4 illustrates schematically a holder of a device for detecting fouling
and/or scaling deposits according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present inven-
tion.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] The present invention will be described with respect to particular embodiments
and with reference to certain drawings but the invention is not limited thereto but only by the
claims. The drawings described are only schematic and are non-limiting. In the drawings, the
size of some of the elements may be exaggerated and not drawn on scale for illustrative pur-
poses.
11
[0041] Where an indefinite or definite article is used when referring to a singular noun,
e.g. “a”, “an”, “the”, this includes a plural of that noun unless something else is specifically
stated.
[0042] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in
the claims are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for de-
scribing a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are
interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention
described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described of illustrated
herein.
[0043] In figure 1, a device 1 for detecting fouling and/or scaling deposits 2 inside a
liquid-bearing system 4 according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention
is shown. In the present example, the liquid-bearing system 4 is a part of a paper making
plant. The liquid-bearing system 4 comprises a hollow fluid pipe for conducting a liquid me-
dium 23 into a functional unit 22 which is a heat exchanger or a boiler, for instance. The de-
vice 1 comprises a measuring unit 16 and a reflecting unit 11. The measuring unit 16 and the
reflecting unit 11 are located on opposite sides of the liquid-bearing system 4 facing each
other. The measuring unit 16 comprises an ultrasonic transducer 5 and a detection means 6.
An ultrasonic emission signal 20 is emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 5 towards a reflecting
area 3 and towards the reflecting unit 11 which comprises a reflecting wall 8 located inside
the reflecting area 3. In order to detect and analyze fouling and/or scaling deposits 2 accu-
mulated in the area of the reflecting area 10 onto the reflecting wall 8, a ultrasonic reflection
signal 21 occurred through a reflection of the ultrasonic emission signal 20 in the reflecting
area 10 is detected by the detection means 6 and analyzed by an analyzing unit 19. The re-
flecting wall 8 functions as a wall portion of the liquid-bearing system 4, so that an inner side
9 of the reflecting wall 8 facing the measuring unit 16 might be covered with scaling and/or
fouling deposits 3 depending on the actual environmental conditions. If no deposits 2 are
accumulated onto the reflecting wall 8, the inner side 9 of the reflecting wall 8 mainly serves
as a reflecting surface for the ultrasonic signal. If scaling and/or fouling deposits 2 cover the
reflecting wall 8, the ultrasonic signal is reflected at least partially at the surface of the depos-
its 2.
[0044] In order to simulate certain temperature conditions in the area of the reflecting
area 3, the reflecting unit 11 comprises a heating means 7 for increasing the temperature in
the reflecting area 3. In the present example, the heating means 7 comprises an electric car-
tridge heater. The cartridge heater is at least partially encapsulated by a heat conducting
means 7’ preferably made of a thermally conductive material, like metal. In particular, the
conducting means 7’ is rigidly coupled to both the cartridge heater and the inner side of the
12
reflecting wall 8 in order to provide an efficient heat transport from the cartridge heater to the
reflecting wall 8. The heater means 7 is connected via the conducting means 7’ to an outer
side 10 of the reflecting wall 8 facing away from the measuring unit 16. The heater means 7
is controlled in such a manner that the heating power of the heating means 7 remains sub-
stantially constant over time.
[0045] Furthermore, the reflecting unit 11 of the device 1 comprises a temperature sen-
sor 15 provided between the reflecting area 3 and the heating means 7 in a cavity of the re-
flecting wall 8. The temperature sensor 15 continuously or discontinuously measures the
temperature in the area of the reflecting wall 8. The device 1 optionally comprises an analyz-
ing unit 25 for analyzing the distribution of the temperature over time in order to determine
whether deposits 2 are located in the reflecting area 10. The analyzing unit 25 evaluates if a
change in the distribution of the temperature occurs which does not depend only on tempera-
ture variations in the liquid. If suchlike changes in the distribution of the temperature occur,
the presence of deposits 2 on the reflecting wall 8 can be determined. If the analyzing unit 25
detects the accumulation of deposits 2, the type and the thickness of the layer of deposits 2
is estimated on the basis of the shape of the changes in the distribution of the temperature.
[0046] As a result, it is possible to increase the temperature of the reflecting wall 8 by
the heating means 7, so that the actual temperature conditions inside of the functional unit 22
can actively be simulated at the position of the reflecting wall 8. If the effective temperature in
the area of the reflecting wall 8 is increased to the actual temperature inside of the functional
unit 22 measured e.g. by an temperature sensor (not shown), inside of the functional unit 22
the accumulation of deposits 2 onto the reflecting wall 8 is very similar to the accumulation of
deposits 2 inside of the functional unit 22. Consequently, the accumulation of fouling and/or
scaling deposits 2 inside of the functional unit 22 can be measured accurately by the mea-
suring unit 16, although the device 1 is not located inside of the functional unit 22.
[0047] If the presence of fouling or scaling deposits 2 is detected a corresponding con-
trol signal for initiating appropriate countermeasures, like adding biocides into the liquid me-
dium 23 and into the liquid-bearing system 4, is generated. Preferably, the control signal de-
pends on the type of deposits 2 (scaling or fouling) and the determined thickness of the layer
of deposits 2. The control signal initiates e.g. a higher concentration of biocide in the liquid
medium 23, if a thicker layer of fouling deposits 2 are determined, and a lower concentration
of biocide, if the layer of fouling deposits 2 is thinner. It is conceivable that one or more
pumps (not shown) are controlled directly by the control signal for pumping an appropriate
amount of biocide into the liquid medium 23. Alternatively, one or more valves (not shown)
are controlled by the control signal for leading a corresponding amount of biocide into the
liquid medium 23. Preferably, the device 1 comprises a communication network interface 24
13
for transmitting the control signal and/or the measured data via a communications network,
e.g. for recording, monitoring, controlling or maintenance purposes.
[0048] In figures 2a, 2b and 2c, a device 1 for detecting fouling and/or scaling deposits
2 according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention is schematically
shown. In principle, the second embodiment of the device 1 is similar to the first embodiment
illustrated in figure 1, whereas the reflecting unit 11 of the device 1 according to the second
embodiment is connected to the liquid-bearing system 4 by aid of connecting joints 12 and
sealing means 13. The connecting joints 12 comprise a screw joint, so that the reflecting unit
11 can be mounted simply by inserting the reflecting wall 8 into the opening in the wall of the
liquid-bearing system 4 and screwing to the wall of the liquid-bearing system 4. In order to
seal the opening in the liquid-bearing system 4, the sealing means 13 is provided between
the reflecting wall 8 and the wall of the liquid-bearing system 4 surrounding the reflecting wall
8. The sealing means 13 comprises a seal-ring in the form of an o-ring located in a groove in
the wall of the liquid-bearing system 4. The reflecting unit 11 further comprises a heat insula-
tor 14 at least partially encapsulating the heat conducting means 7’ in order to avoid heat
transfer from the heating means 7 to the walls of the liquid-bearing system 4 surrounding the
reflecting wall. In particular the heat insulator 14 is partially provided between the heat con-
ducting means 7’ and the connecting joints 12 and between the reflecting wall 8 and the seal-
ing means 13. The liquid-bearing system 4 is designed a tube 17 having an intake fitting 18
and an outflow fitting 19 for screw fitting the tube 17 into a pipeline of an industrial plant or to
the functional unit 22. Alternatively, an electric panel heater (not shown) can be used as the
heating unit 7, wherein the inner side 9 of the reflecting wall 8 is directly coupled to the heat-
ing panel of the electric panel heater.
[0049] In Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, a device 1 for detecting fouling and/or scaling deposits
2 according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention is schematically
shown. The device 1 comprises a tube 17 with an intake fitting 18 and an outflow fitting 19.
The tube 17 is integrated into a liquid-bearing system 4 of e.g. a paper making plant (not
shown). The liquid-bearing system 4 comprises hollow fluid pipes for conducting a liquid me-
dium 23 into a functional unit 22 which is a heat exchanger or a boiler of the paper making
plant, for instance. The liquid medium 23 flows at least partially also through the tube 17.
[0050] Figure 3a shows a cross section of an exploded view of the device 1, whereas
figure 3b shows a cross section of the device 1 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of
the tube 17 and figure 3c shows a cross section of the device 1 parallel to the longitudinal
direction of the tube 17.
14
[0051] In the present example, the tube 17 is provided with a rectangular cross section.
The tube wall 28 comprises a first opening 26 and a second opening 27 which are provided
on opposite sides of the tube 17. The device 1 comprises a measuring unit 16 which is lo-
cated partially inside the first opening 26. The measuring unit 16 has a flange 29 which is
sealed to the outer surface of the tube wall 28 by a first seal ring 30. Furthermore, the device
1 comprises a reflecting unit 11 located partially inside the second opening 27. The measur-
ing unit 16 and the reflecting unit 11 are located on opposite sides of the tube 17. The reflect-
ing unit 11 comprises a reflecting area 3 facing the measuring unit 16.
[0052] In principle, the measuring unit 16 has the same design as the measuring unit 16
described on the basis of figures 1 and 2a to 2c. The measuring unit 16 comprises an ultra-
sonic transducer 5 and a detection means 6. An ultrasonic emission signal 20 is emitted by
the ultrasonic transducer 5 towards a reflecting area 3 and towards the reflecting unit 11
which comprises a reflecting wall 8 located inside the reflecting area 3. The reflecting wall 8
is also located inside the second opening 27. In order to detect and analyze fouling and/or
scaling deposits 2 accumulated onto the reflecting wall 8, a ultrasonic reflection signal 21
occurred through a reflection of the ultrasonic emission signal 20 in the reflecting area 10 is
detected by the detection means 6 and analyzed by an analyzing unit 19. The reflecting wall
8 functions as a wall portion of the liquid-bearing system 4, so that an inner side 9 of the re-
flecting wall 8 facing the measuring unit 16 might be covered with scaling and/or fouling de-
posits 3 depending on the actual environmental conditions in the liquid-bearing system 4.
[0053] The design of the reflecting unit 11 differs from the design shown in Figures 1
and 2a to 2c. The reflecting unit 11 comprises a heating means 7 for increasing the tempera-
ture in the reflecting area 3, so that certain temperature conditions, in particular the tempera-
ture conditions inside of the functional unit 22, can be simulated in the area of the reflecting
area 3. The heating means 7 comprises a cylindrical electric cartridge heater which is ar-
ranged parallel to the main axis of the tube 17 in order to achieve a more efficient heat input
from the heated surface of the electric cartridge heater into the reflecting area. The cylindrical
electric cartridge heater is integrated into a recess of a holder 31 fixing the cartridge heater
and acting as a heat conducting means 7’. The holder 31 works as a heat conducting means
7’. Particularly, the holder 31 is made of metal with a comparatively good thermal conductiv-
ity, e.g. iron, stainless steel, copper and/or brass. In the present example, the holder 31 is
made of an alloy of copper, nickel, iron (CuNiFe), preferably copper, nickel, iron and manga-
nese (CuNi10Fe1,6Mn). The CuNiFeMn material ensures a comparatively high resistance to
water and simultaneously a good thermal conductivity. One side of the holder 31 comprises
the reflecting wall 8 located inside the second opening 27, so that the heat generated by the
15
electric cartridge heater is transported by thermal conduction within the holder 31 directly to
the reflecting wall 8.
[0054] A flange 35 of the holder 31 is supported by a carrier 32. The carrier 32, which is
preferably made from synthetic or ceramic materials, works as the heat insulator 14 to re-
duce the heat transfer from the holder 31 to the tube wall 28. The carrier 32 is provided also
in the second opening 27 and comprises a third opening 33, in which the reflecting wall 8 is
located. The flange 35 of the holder 31 is sealed against an inner surface of the carrier 32 by
a second seal ring 34. The carrier 32 is sealed against the outer surface of the tube 17 by a
third seal ring 36. The carrier 32 is connected to a housing 37 by screws 38. The carrier 32
and the housing 37 completely encapsulate the holder 31 together with the cartridge heater,
except of the reflecting wall 8. The flange 35 of the holder 31 is sealed against the housing
37 by a fourth seal ring 39. Furthermore, the flange 35 of the holder 31 is clamped between
the housing 37 and the carrier 32 which are pressed together by the screws 38. The second
seal ring 34, the third seal ring 36 and the fourth seal ring 39 ensures that no water enters
the housing 37 and comes into contact with the cartridge heater. The housing 31 comprises
a service opening 40 through which power supply and control cables are running. Inside the
housing 37, an additional sealing means 41 is provided, e.g. a water barrier. The whole de-
vice 1 is comparatively compact. It is conceivable that the measuring unit 16 and the reflect-
ing unit 11 are pressed against the tube 17 by fixing means (not shown), like screws or the
like, which extend beside and past the tube 17 from the measuring unit 16 to the reflecting
unit 11.
[0055] The device 1 comprises two temperature sensors (not shown) provided near the
reflecting wall 8 in order to accurately determine the temperature of the reflecting wall 8. It is
conceivable that the device 1 comprises a sensor measuring the temperature of the liquid
medium 23 passing the reflecting wall 8. Furthermore, the device 1 can be provided with a
flow meter measuring the flow rate of the liquid medium 23 through the tube 17. The device 1
comprises an analyzing unit 24 for analyzing at least the temperature data of the temperature
sensors and the measuring data of the measuring unit 16 to determine, if a layer of deposits
2 is deposited onto the reflecting wall 8, and, if the presence of deposits 2 are detected, to
distinguish, whether fouling or scaling deposits 2 are accumulated onto the reflecting wall 8.
[0056] The following explains how the detection of deposits 2 and the distinction be-
tween different kinds of deposits 2 with the device 1 according to the third embodiment
works: The liquid medium 23 is passed through the tube 17. The electric cartridge heater is
switched on and controlled in such a manner that the temperature of the reflecting wall 8 is
set to a desired temperature. The desired temperature corresponds to the actual working
temperature of a heat transfer surface inside the functional unit 22, for instance. Afterwards,
16
the heating power is kept constant and the course of the temperature of the reflecting wall 8
over time is monitored. If the temperature remains constant, there is no measurable accumu-
lation of deposits 2 onto the reflecting wall 8, at all. But, if the temperature of the reflecting
wall 8 changes over time while the temperature and the flow rate of the liquid medium 23
remain constant, this is an indicator that a layer of deposits 2 has grown onto the reflecting
wall 8 because the layer of deposits 2 changes the effective thermal conductivity of the
holder 31. In other words, the analyzing unit 16 notifies the presence of deposits 2 on the
heated reflecting wall 8 by detecting a temperature change of the reflecting wall 8 over time.
[0057] When the presence of deposits 2 are detected, the measuring unit 16 will be
started to determine the thickness of the layer of deposits 2 by analyzing the run time of an
ultrasonic reflection signal 21. The measuring unit 16 comprises an ultrasonic transducer 5
emitting an ultrasonic emission signal 20 across the tube 17 towards the reflecting wall 8.
The ultrasonic emission signal 20 is reflected in the reflecting area 3 back to the ultrasonic
transducer 5 either by the reflecting wall 8 or by the layer of deposits 2 covering the reflecting
wall 3. The reflected signal is referred to as ultrasonic reflection signal 21 measured by de-
tection means 6. The run time of the ultrasonic reflection signal 21 is determined and com-
pared to a reference run time. The reference run time corresponds to the run time of an ul-
trasonic reflection signal without accumulation of deposits 2 in the reflecting area 3 under the
same conditions. For example, the reference run time has been initially measured by the
measuring unit 16 immediately after the device 1 has been integrated into the liquid bearing
system 4 and after the holder 31 has been heated to the desired temperature. At this time,
growth of deposits 2 has not yet been taken place on the reflecting wall 8.
[0058] If the measured run time and the reference run time are substantially equal to
each other, the ultrasonic emission signal 20 has been reflected by the reflecting wall 8 and
not by a layer of deposits 2. Nevertheless, the determined temperature change in the reflect-
ing wall 8 is a measure for the presence of deposits 2 on the reflecting wall 8. This means
that the layer of deposits 2 covering the reflecting wall 8 is transparent for ultrasonic waves
and therefore do not reflect the ultrasonic emission signal 20. Consequently, it can be deter-
mined that the layer of deposits 2 mainly consists of fouling deposits (also referred to as or-
ganic deposits). In particular, the layer of deposits 2 must be a biofilm. Based on the magni-
tude of temperature change over time, a quantitative statement about the thickness of the
biofilm can be made.
[0059] If the measured run time is smaller than the reference run time, the ultrasonic
emission signal 20 has been reflected by the upper surface of the layer of deposits 2. It can
be concluded that the layer of deposits 2 is not transparent for ultrasonic waves. This means
that the layer of deposits 2 consists of scaling deposits comprising inorganic matter. The
17
thickness of the layer of scale can directly be calculated from the difference between the
measured run time and the reference run time by taking into account the speed of sound in
water.
[0060] In summary, the described device 1 and method enables to detect the presence
of any deposits 2 on the reflecting wall 8, to determine the type of deposits 2 (organic or in-
organic deposits) accumulated on the reflecting wall 8, and to calculate the thickness of the
layer of deposits 2 on the reflecting wall 8. Furthermore, the temperature conditions inside a
functional unit 22 can be simulated.
[0061] If the presence of deposits 2 is detected and the type and thickness of the layer
of deposits 2 are determined, a corresponding control signal for initiating appropriate coun-
termeasures, like adding biocides into the liquid medium 23 and into the liquid-bearing sys-
tem 4, is generated. Preferably, the control signal depends on the type of deposits 2 (scaling
or fouling) and the determined thickness of the layer of deposits 2. The control signal initiates
e.g. a higher concentration of biocide in the liquid medium 23, if a thicker layer of fouling de-
posits 2 are determined, and a lower concentration of biocide, if the layer of fouling deposits
2 is thinner. It is conceivable that one or more pumps (not shown) are controlled directly by
the control signal for pumping an appropriate amount of biocide into the liquid medium 23
and in particular towards the functional unit 22. Alternatively, one or more valves (not shown)
are controlled by the control signal for leading a corresponding amount of biocide into the
liquid medium 23. Preferably, the device 1 comprises a communication network interface 24
for transmitting the control signal and/or the measured data via a communications network,
e.g. for recording, monitoring, controlling or maintenance purposes.
[0062] In figure 4, the schematic detail view of a holder 31 of a device 1 according to an
exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown. In principle, the fourth em-
bodiment corresponds to the third embodiment, wherein the holder 31 is made of a high con-
ductivity metal, like copper, wherein the reflecting wall 3 of the holder 31 comprises a coating
42 comprising a more corrosion resistant material, like stainless steel. It is also conceivable
that the coating 42 is made of a material which matches the actual metallurgy of the liquid-
bearing system and/or the heat exchanger to be emulated, e.g. stainless steel.
18
REFERENCE SIGNS
1 device
2 deposits
3 reflecting area
4 liquid-bearing system
ultrasonic transducer
6 detection means
7 heating means
7’ heat conducting means
8 reflecting wall,
9 inner side
outer side
11 reflecting unit
12 connecting joints
13 sealing means
14 heat insulator
temperature sensor
16 measuring unit
17 tube
18 intake fitting
19 outflow fitting
ultrasonic emission signal
21 ultrasonic reflecting signal
22 functional unit
23 liquid medium
24 communication network interface
analyzing unit
26 first opening
27 second opening
28 tube wall
29 flange of measuring unit
first seal ring
31 holder
32 carrier
33 third opening
34 second seal ring
flange of holder
19
36 third seal ring
37 housing
38 screw
39 fourth seal ring
40 service opening
41 sealing means
42 coating
20
Claims (23)
1. A device for detecting deposits in a reflecting area inside a liquid-bearing system comprising an ultrasonic transducer for emitting an ultrasonic emission signal towards the reflecting area and a detection means for detecting an ultrasonic reflection signal obtained by reflection of the ultrasonic emission signal in the area of the reflecting area, wherein the device further comprises heating means for increasing the tem- perature of the reflecting area, wherein the reflecting area is provided at least partially by a reflecting wall and wherein the heating means is connected to the outer side of the reflecting wall.
2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the heating means is directly coupled to the reflecting area, wherein the heating means is rigidly coupled to the reflecting area by heat conducting means made of a thermally conductive material.
3. The device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises a reflecting wall, wherein the reflecting area is provided at least partially by the reflect- ing wall, and the reflecting wall comprises a wall portion of the liquid-bearing system and/or at least serves as a wall portion of the liquid-bearing system.
4. The device according to claim 2, wherein the heat conducting means comprises a holder having a recess, in which the heating means is accommodated, and wherein the heat conducting means comprises the reflecting wall, wherein an inner side of the reflecting wall faces the ultrasonic transducer and/or wherein the device comprises a reflecting unit comprising the heating means, the heat conducting means and the re- flecting wall, wherein the reflecting unit is detachably connected to the liquid-bearing system in such a manner that the reflecting wall protrudes into an opening in the wall of the liquid-bearing system.
5. The device according to claim 3, wherein the reflecting unit is connected to the liquid- bearing system by means of connecting joints, in particular a screw joint, wherein pre- ferably sealing means are provided between the reflecting wall and the wall of the liq- uid-bearing system surrounding the reflecting wall.
6. The device according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the reflecting unit comprises a heat insulator isolating the heating means and the reflecting wall from the wall of the liquid-bearing system surrounding the reflecting wall. 21
7. The device of claim 6 wherein the heat insulator is provided between the reflecting wall and the connecting joints and/or the heat insulator encapsulates at least partially the heating means.
8. The device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a holder comprises or is made of copper and/or wherein the holder is made of a first material and comprises a coating of a second material in the reflecting area..
9. The device according to claim 8 wherein the holder comprises or is made of an alloy which comprises copper, nickel and iron (CuNiFe)
10. The device according to claim 9 wherein the holder comprises or is made of an alloy which comprises copper, nickel, iron and manganese (CuNiFeMn).
11. The device according to one of claims 8 to 10 wherein the first material is a high con- ductivity metal.
12. The device according to one of claims 8 to 11 wherein the second material corres- ponds the material of the liquid-bearing system or of a functional unit to be emulated.
13. The device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises at least one temperature sensor.
14. The device according to claim 13 wherein the temperature sensor is provided be- tween the heating means and the reflecting area.
15. The device according to claim 14 wherein the temperature sensor is provided near or integrated into the reflecting wall.
16. The device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises a measuring unit comprising the ultrasonic transducer and the detection means, where- in the measuring unit is detachably connected to the liquid-bearing system in such a manner that the measuring unit and the reflecting unit are located on opposite sides of the liquid-bearing system.
17. The device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises an analyzing unit which is configured to analyze the distribution of the temperature measured by the temperature sensor in order to determine whether deposits are lo- cated in the reflecting area and/or to determine the type and/or the thickness of a layer of deposits in the reflecting area. 22
18. A method for detecting fouling and/or scaling deposits in a reflecting area inside a liq- uid-bearing system, wherein the reflecting area is provided at least partially by a re- flecting wall, comprising a step of emitting an ultrasonic emission signal towards the reflecting area by an ultrasonic transducer and a step of detecting an ultrasonic ref- lection signal obtained by reflection of the ultrasonic emission signal in the area of the reflecting area by detection means, wherein the temperature of the reflecting area is increased by heating means, wherein the temperature of the reflecting wall is in- creased by heating means.
19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the reflecting area is heated by direct heat input from the heating means.
20. The method of claim 19 wherein the heat is conducted from the heating means to the reflecting area via conducting means made of a thermally conductive material which is rigidly coupled to the reflecting area and to the heating means.
21. The method according to one of the claims 18 to 20, wherein the temperature of the reflecting area is measured by at least one temperature sensor.
22. The method according to claim 21, wherein the heating means is controlled in depen- dency of a temperature determined by the temperature sensor, wherein the heating means is controlled in such a manner that the temperature determined by the tem- perature sensor corresponds to a reference value and/or wherein the distribution of the temperature measured by the temperature sensor is analyzed by an analyzing unit in order to determine whether deposits are located in the reflecting area and/or to determine the type and/or the thickness of a layer of deposits in the reflecting area.
23. The method according to one of the claims 19 to 22, wherein the heating means is controlled in such a manner that the heating power provided by the heating means remains substantially constant, wherein the course of the temperature, measured by the at least one temperature sensor, over time is monitored and wherein an accumu- lation of deposits onto the reflecting wall is determined when a change in the course of the temperature over time is detected, and/or wherein a run time of the ultrasonic reflection signal is compared with a reference run time, if accumulation of deposits is determined, wherein an accumulation of scale deposits is determined, when both a change in the course of the temperature over time and a difference between the run time of the ultrasonic reflection signal and the reference run time are detected, and wherein an accumulation of fouling deposits is determined, when a change in the 23 course of the temperature over time and no significant difference between the run time of the ultrasonic reflection signal and the reference run time are detected.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP11010108.6 | 2011-12-22 | ||
EP11010108 | 2011-12-22 | ||
PCT/EP2012/076314 WO2013092820A1 (en) | 2011-12-22 | 2012-12-20 | Device and method for detecting deposits |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ626125A NZ626125A (en) | 2015-03-27 |
NZ626125B2 true NZ626125B2 (en) | 2015-06-30 |
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