Method and apparatus for monitoring temperatures during catalytic regeneration from a continuously moving infrared scanning and detection unit fixedly mounted aboard an aircraft

摘要

Careful and accurate indication of regeneration temperatures of catalysts associated with the refining of hydrocarbons such as occurring in catalyst-aided hydrocracking and catalyst-aided reforming processes-- in real time--occurs by monitoring--from an overflying aircraft--the infrared energy, say in a frequency range greater than 300 × 10.sup. 9 but not more than 10.sup.15 Hertz, emitted from a plurality of distributed metallic studs mounted as by welding to the exterior surface of the sidewall of a vessel undergoing catalytic regeneration. The dynamic temperature variation of such energy rays readily indicates regeneration temperatures of the catalyst interior of the vessel. The studs extend through the insulation of the vessel but do not penetrate its interior. Where the regeneration process is cyclically occurring, not only is there a marked decrease in the time required for regeneration, but there is also better statistical certainty that full regeneration of the catalyst has occurred. Further, by mounting the infrared scanning and detection unit aboard a continuously moving aircraft flying a constant elevational, circular path over the vessel, the temperature of catalyst interior of the vessel over the full 360- degree circumference of the vessel can be quickly and accurately determined.PPSuch scanning and detection unit preferably includes novel enhancement circuitry for restoring the infrared energy signals after detection, say under operating conditions concomitant with atmospheric degradation ("clutter") or image blur of the emitted infrared signals.