Abstract: A signal processing technique that allows the flame signal from a first source of flame and the flame signal from a second source of flame to be discriminated from each other when only both the first and second flame signals are viewed by the same flame scanner. The signal from the flame scanner is processed to enhance one or more of the attributes associated with the first flame and is simultaneously processed to enhance one or more attributes associated with the second flame.

Abstract: An apparatus for evaluating data representing the electrical characteristics of a combustion vessel, the combustion vessel being operable to combust a fuel. The apparatus includes a matrix of nodes 132 arranged on an ohmic material of the combustion vessel, a wire 116A, 116B, 118A, 118B, connected to each respective node 132 and a switch SW1, SW2 connected to each wire and to a current source. A circuit 110A, 110B for reducing leakage currents uses an added series element, optimally a diode D1, and feedback control of the voltage across the diode to a set point of zero volts to effectively reduce the off-state leakage current of each switch SW1, SW2.

Abstract: An apparatus for evaluating data representing the electrical characteristics of a combustion vessel, the combustion vessel being operable to combust a fuel. The apparatus includes a matrix of nodes 132 arranged on an ohmic material of the combustion vessel, a wire 116A, 116B, 118A, 118B, connected to each respective node 132 and a switch SW1, SW2 connected to each wire and to a current source. A circuit 110A, 110B for reducing leakage currents uses an added series element, optimally a diode D1, and feedback control of the voltage across the diode to a set point of zero volts to effectively reduce the off-state leakage current of each switch SW1, SW2.

Abstract: An apparatus 100 for providing information concerning a condition of a vessel such as a steam drum 12 which segregates steam and liquid from one another includes a liquid contact assembly 102, a signal generator element 130, and a housing 112 and a conduit 114 for enclosing the signal generator element 130 in a substantially leak proof manner within the vessel space. The liquid contact assembly 102 is disposable at a first vessel location in the steam drum 12 and has a vibration component 108 operable to vibrate at natural frequencies which vary as a function of a predetermined characteristic of the liquid at the first vessel location and a support component 110 for supporting the water contact assembly 102 in contact with the liquid at the first vessel location. The signal generator element 130 generates a signal indicative of a natural frequency of the vibration component 108.

Abstract: An apparatus 100 for providing information concerning a condition of a vessel such as a steam drum 12 which segregates steam and liquid from one another includes a liquid contact assembly 102, a signal generator element 130, and a housing 112 and a conduit 114 for enclosing the signal generator element 130 in a substantially leak proof manner within the vessel space. The liquid contact assembly 102 is disposable at a first vessel location in the steam drum 12 and has a vibration component 108 operable to vibrate at natural frequencies which vary as a function of a predetermined characteristic of the liquid at the first vessel location and a support component 110 for supporting the water contact assembly 102 in contact with the liquid at the first vessel location. The signal generator element 130 generates a signal indicative of a natural frequency of the vibration component 108.

Abstract: A flame scanner for effecting therewith individual burner flame discrimination in multi-fossil fuel fired steam generators. The subject flame scanner is based on the use therein of a silicon carbide photodiode that is operative for converting into a photocurrent ultraviolet light, which impinges upon the silicon carbide photodiode after passing through a focusing lens.

Abstract: An ionic flame monitor. The flame monitor has a flame rod that produces an ionization current when the flame rod is immersed in a flame and excited by a voltage. The ionization current has a DC component and an AC component each dependent on the intensity of the flame, and a flicker frequency. The flame monitor also has a computing device that is responsive to signals representative of the flicker frequency, and the AC and DC components of the ionization current for determining the existence of the flame.