to processes and the loss of production caused . Thus , the role of thermal imaging cameras in providing critical insight for failure prevention and asset management is central . Specifically with the information gathered by the furnace camera on the thermal situation enables the operator to perform the following :
• Determine whether or not temperature sensors need to be exchanged :
• Indicate If the temperature of the piping is within acceptable ranges ;
• When to raise productivity : and
• Whether the burner needs adjustment or cleaning . Ultimately , through monitoring and controlling process temperature uniformly , the life of a furnace can be extended . 2 . Thermal imaging cameras also enable energy efficiency savings . 3 . Enabling process control optimisation .
4 . As the monitoring is done remotely , it removes personnel out of harm ’ s way .
Application engineering teams and customisation
The thermal imaging cameras may employ state of the art technology but the reality is that every furnace has unique requirements . Thus , bearing this in mind , application-engineering teams from manufacturers are able to customise the cameras to the operators ’ requirements . This is common in a number of areas . For instance , use of spectral filters to prevent the burning firing interfering with flame image visibility . In most cases , a spectral filter is used to make flame visible .
Robust enough to withstand high heat
In addition , some operators do request , the use of additional systems , where a single system does not suffice . Should additional precautions be deemed necessary , a camera enclosure can also be equipped with pressurised air or water for better cooling or be mounted on an automatic retraction system . Customisation is also done in other areas , depending on client requirements .
The most outstanding feature , as manufacturers claim , is robustness to withstand challenging conditions experienced on mine sites . They point to several features . Most prominent is the protective enclosure , which allows the camera to withstand the high heat and measure temperatures through the combustion gas and flames . The cameras are available in a range of housing dimensions and mounting options .
Metso Outotec launches robust camera solution for smelting furnaces to increase safety and availabilit
Metso Outotec is launching a robust Furnace Camera to reduce or even eliminate the need to power off or cut the feed to inspect the furnace . Operators can safely monitor conditions inside the furnace in real time and react immediately to situations that would otherwise not necessarily be detected . The furnace camera is a fully integrated solution that is fast and easy to install into new or existing furnaces . “ The Metso Outotec Furnace Camera is part of our extensive range of smart digital tools designed to support customers by helping them to increase safety , improve efficiency and availability , and reduce costs in their pyrometallurgical processes ,” says Tapani Keronen , Product Manager , Digital Solutions , Metso Outotec .
An intelligent user-friendly system Real-time monitoring of the furnace enables operators to identify potential issues , like water leaks , and to take action to prevent damage .
The video feed provides visibility to the condition of internal furnace components , such as electrodes and material feeding . The camera can measure accurate temperature values from user-specified locations and help the user to find hot spots . Additionally , the operator can identify refractory wear from camera images . Image clarity is not affected by fumes or dust . The automatic retraction function protects the camera in case of a break in utilities supply . Video , snapshots , and historical trend data can be viewed on the control-room display or used for later analysis .
Metso Outotec supports customers with the commissioning process and provides training for operators and plant management to ensure maximum benefit from the solution . Technical support is also available via an optional remote connection service .
The Furnace Camera is part of Metso Outotec ’ s Planet Positive offering .
Key benefits of the Metso Outotec Furnace Camera
• Improved operational safety and reduced need for personnel to work in harsh environments
• Improved furnace availability due to continuous monitoring without production disturbances
• Faster response to abnormal situations , such as water leaks , electrode breaks , or hot spots
• Pre-tested solution with bolt-on design , enabling quick and easy installation
• Significantly lower operating costs compared to standard camera solutions due to effective cooling system
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