Hermetically sealed microwave probe for in-situ detection of black powder in gas pipelines

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

Black powder (BP) is a recognized threat to gas transmission pipelines' integrity and operation in many different regions around the world. Early detection of black powder in susceptible lines becomes a prerequisite for efficient pipeline management and 'Best in Class' maintenance. In essence, detecting the presence of black powder and predicting its volume, not only enable cost-effective maintenance procedures, but also allow for tracing its initiating source, and consequently, fully understanding its formation mechanism. In this paper, a new microwave based device for real-time black powder monitoring is introduced and its performance is analyzed. The proposed device is based on interrogating the pipeline with microwaves, using a custom-designed hermetically-sealed probe working at 24 GHz, and analyzing the signals passing through and reflected from the gas flow. It will be shown that, the presence of the back powder, even in small quantities within the flow, is manifested with considerable variations in the microwave transmission and reflection properties of the flow rendering high overall detection sensitivity. Furthermore, detection and evaluation of black powder using the proposed device is demonstrated on experimental air flow rig.

Original languageBritish English
Title of host publication2014 IEEE International Instrumentation and Measurement Technology Conference
Subtitle of host publicationInstrumentation and Measurement for Sustainable Development, I2MTC 2014 - Proceedings
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages1115-1119
Number of pages5
ISBN (Print)9781467363853
DOIs
StatePublished - 2014
Event2014 IEEE International Instrumentation and Measurement Technology Conference: Instrumentation and Measurement for Sustainable Development, I2MTC 2014 - Montevideo, Uruguay
Duration: 12 May 201415 May 2014

Publication series

NameConference Record - IEEE Instrumentation and Measurement Technology Conference
ISSN (Print)1091-5281

Conference

Conference2014 IEEE International Instrumentation and Measurement Technology Conference: Instrumentation and Measurement for Sustainable Development, I2MTC 2014
Country/TerritoryUruguay
CityMontevideo
Period12/05/1415/05/14

Keywords

  • black powder
  • circular waveguide
  • coaxial line
  • corrosion
  • detection
  • microwaves
  • natural gas
  • pipeline
  • transition

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