EMPRESS: Enhancing process efficiency through improved temperature measurement
The efficiency of high-value manufacturing processes is heavily reliant on accurate, traceable temperature measurement, with some processes requiring reliable control at temperatures up to 2000 °C. Current state-of-the-art tools used by industry to measure high temperatures (above 1300 °C) suffer from drift and large measurement uncertainties. Improved measurement capability could lead to reduced product rejection and increased energy efficiency, reducing costs for manufacturers. This project will significantly enhance the efficiency of high-value manufacturing processes by improving temperature measurement capability with new sensors and calibration techniques, and introducing traceability directly into processes.
Funded by EURAMET’s European Metrology Programme for innovation and Research, the project is characterized by trials of the developments in-process at end users’ facilities, to solve documented manufacturing problems in high value manufacturing environments and to introduce in-situ traceability to the International Temperature Scale of 1990 (ITS-90).
Figure. Left, TELOPS hyperspectral imaging sensor which uses Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) technology.
Right, Hencken Burner details.
EURAMET, the European Association of National Metrology Institutes is a metrology-focused European initiative of coordinated R&D that facilitates closer integration of national research initiatives. It is integrated into the framework of the EU research and innovation programmme, Horizon 2020. EMPIR seeks to unite the efforts of European metrology institutes to universities and research centers. LIR-Infrared LAB participates with the Spanish Metrology Centre (CEM).
LIR-UC3M has an important role, specified in Work Package 4: Traceable combustion temperature measurement. Objective of this WP is to characterize and standardize a portable burner, based on a flat-flame Hencken. There will be an intercomparison of different optical measurement methods. LIR-Infrared LAB will use a Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR). Furthermore, the temperature of the hot gases produced by burning will also be measured.