Condition Monitoring of Gasifiers

Gasifiers are used for gasification processes where carbon-containing materials like coal or oil are converted into synthesis gas. The process in the inner runs at temperatures of up to 1600°C and at high pressures. To withstand these extreme conditions, the reactor vessel is coated with a fireproof lining. However, during operation the refractory is subject to wear, cracking and degradation. If the refractory lining fails, the hot gas will immediately break through the metal shell, leading to an explosion with catastrophic consequences for the surrounding equipment and in addition to an unplanned shut-down. Besides this economical impact there is also a high risk of personnel injuries or even loss of lives. In consequence it is absolutely essential for a safe operation of a gasifier, that the operators have reliable information about the condition of the refractory lining at any time.

For the thermal monitoring of gasification vessels infrared imaging systems mean an effective solution. Infrared cameras continuously scan the entire surface of gasifiers, immediately detecting and tracking any hotspots or abnormal thermal conditions before they can cause a threat to the reactor metallurgy. However, thermographic monitoring of gasifiers is not only useful for safety reasons. The analyzing of thermal images delivers also valuable information for an optimization of the gasification process. For example, the thermal data can help you to determine the location of the reaction zone, to assess the refractory wear or to get aware of changes in the feed injector performance. In consequence, our Thermographic monitoring system provides you with both safety and economic benefits.