Growing Industrial Superiority of Distributed Temperature Sensing

One of the industries under the electronic sector that holds promising results and will flourish in the post pandemic period of Covid-19 is the distributed temperature sensing industry. Distributed temperature sensors have a unique ability to measure temperature over a wide area as well as distances. It can cover over 40 km with multi-mode fiber type and 100 km with single-mode fiber type. Optic sensor cables, witnessing a growing demand, are used to construct the distributed temperature sensing devices.

According to a report by Researchdive, it is estimated that the revenue of distributed temperature sensing market will increase to $1,196.5 million in 2027. The reason for its enhanced demand lies in the vast developed advantages and several practical applications of distributed temperature sensing devices, which are listed below.

The Evolving Pros  

Distributed temperature sensing devices are facing a market pull and push due to its highly innovative characteristics that have caught the eyes of industrialists. The merits are as follows:

• These devices sense temperature in three different ways – linear, point, and thermal camera surface, thus eliminating human-based checks.

• They are beneficial for tracking-down temperature over long distances in large manufacturing plants with enormous areas.  

• They have a simple and easy installation process and can be completed in limited time period.

• Their life expectancy can be estimated till 30 years which is better than the conventional or traditional sensors.

• They are known for their precision as they can specifically pinpoint the abnormal section without any blind spots.

• They have the ability to provide a full temperature profile with continuous actions. Their swiftness is due to the Raman Effect that is used in their working and functioning.

• The additional protective layer over these devices make them resistant to lightning, electromagnetic noise, and vibrations.

• The designing and production costs of distributed temperature sensors are less than the traditional ones, thus making them cost effective. 

• Their power usage is kept to a minimum to avoid ignitions and explosions in the factories. Therefore, they prevent hazards and can be used without worrying about accidents and losing valuable assets.

• Their competence to detect line interruptions and avoid blackouts make them an ideal choice for the users.

Various Implementations of Sensing Devices in Oil and Gas Industry:

The oil operations which take place on land and sea use distributed temperature sensing for safety and better functioning in the harsh environment. It is found out that hydrogen, pressure, and temperature affect the environment in these areas, but temperature sensors help in alerting people during dangerous situations like oil leaks and fire.

• Fire Detection: Fire is a threat to the assets and can destroy them, resulting in a huge loss of revenues. With the use of such devices, fire spots can be located and appropriate actions can be taken.

• Power Cable Monitoring: The power grid cable plays a vital role in networking and connectivity. Its short circuit can cause tremendous setbacks in various industries and businesses. Distributed temperature sensing devices can detect heat hotspots and provide power circuit rating data. They use color codes for the circuits and measure the temperature.

• Pipeline Monitoring: Pipeline channels circulate tons of water, liquefied natural gas, mining slurry, biofuels, and steam. over large distances. Here, the role of distributed temperature sensors is to detect leaks and track pipeline inspection gauges. Moreover, they can check for any damages, accidents or any form of malicious activities carried out by a third party.

• Environmental Usages: In this segment only water flow is determined by these sensors. The sensors can monitor levees, dykes, dams, and canals to safeguard the property build on its side. These devices have early warning systems for planning and taking appropriate actions during the disaster. Apart from this, they can monitors strain and temperature on concrete dams and prevent irregular leakages. Moreover, they can discover seepage changes in dams.

• Hydrogeology Study:  It is the study of groundwater flow in soil and rocks and is being researched by using distributed temperature sensing devices. It checks soil’s thermal properties through heat pulse tests and uses hybrid cable flow logging as well.

The Way Ahead

The usage of distributed temperature sensing devices will grow as they have low operational and maintenance costs. Over the period of time, their usage and purpose will develop due to innovative inventions. Moreover, they are leading in the sensor department as they have the least number of demerits as compared to their growing benefits and can pave way to various investing opportunities in the near future.

About the Author(s)

Princy A. J

Princy holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the prestigious Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. University at Chennai, India. After a successful academic record, she pursued her passion for writing. A thorough professional and enthusiastic writer, she enjoys writing on various categories and advancements in the global industries. She plays an instrumental role in writing about current updates, news, blogs, and trends.