Fiber-optic photoelastic pressure sensors for high-temperature gases

摘要

This report discusses work done on a passive optical sensor designed to measure high pressures (600 psi) with a gas side temperature of 1500 C. This work included material characterization for suitable birefringent material to operate up to 1500 C operation. Using a photoelastic model as a design tool, the sensor geometry was optimized. Housing seals and connecting fiber-optic cables were designed and tested. An electronic package (hardware and software) for operation of the birefringent sensor and for data acquisition was also developed. A series of tests were conducted to evaluate the design and durability of components and performance of the sensor. The result of this program is an optical sensor capable of measuring gas side temperatures up to 1500 C.