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Fibre sensors are of several types. However, they differ mostly in the parameters they measure. Below are several types of fibre sensors based on the parameters they measure.
These are the most common types of fibre sensors. Thus, they are usually applied in structural health monitoring, strain gauging, and displacement measurement. Optical fibre temperature sensors work by measuring the amount of light that is reflected by the fibre sensor. When the strain, displacement, or any other mechanical aspect changes, the internal reflections change too. These reflections form a Grating that correlates with the said change.
Often built on the fibre Bragg grating technology, these sensors measure the temperature through the variations of reflected light. Any changes in temperature induce a shift in the Bragg wavelength. Therefore, this makes it possible to determine the exact temperature of interest.
These sensors are typically employed in dynamic or quasi-static sound field analysis. In other words, they provide information about such conditions as seismic, underwater, and structural vibrations. They work by analysing how sound waves interact with light travelling down an optical fibre.
These sensors apply optical fibres to detect chemicals and toxic substances in the environment. The chemical fibre sensors work by analysing the changes in the optical properties of the fibre or the light that interacts with the chemicals of interest.
With biophotonics gaining traction, biological optical fibre sensors are becoming more and more common. We can use these sensors to measure biological parameters directly in living organisms and patients. Therefore, they are useful in healthcare and medical diagnostics.
Fibre sensors have a variety of industrial applications. Ideally, these sensors work well in industries where they measure key elements, such as parameters of structure and systems.
Fibre sensors are usually applied in this area for measuring stress, strain, vibration, and displacement in real time. This means that monitor bridges, buildings, dams, and other critical infrastructure, which helps prevent catastrophic failures. Additionally, in aerospace and mechanical engineering, these sensors aid in assessing fatigue and lifespan estimation of various components.
The ability of optical fibre to perform well in harsh conditions makes them ideal for the oil and gas sector. For instance, machined optical fibres can monitor pipeline deformation and leak detection. Additionally, in wind turbines and other energy generation systems, fibre sensors track temperature, vibration, and structural integrity. This improves efficiency and reduces downtime due to maintenance.
Fibre sensors have been used in many transportation systems. For instance, they monitor road and rail infrastructure. They also track real-time changes in stress, strain, temperature, and vibration within this infrastructure. This enables predictive maintenance and improves safety statistics. Therefore, the railway systems also use these sensors for vehicle monitoring. This gives a report on axle loads, wheel imbalance, and other structural parameter-related issues.
Fibre sensors are important in vehicle and critical infrastructure monitoring. Defence systems employ these sensors for blast and vibration monitoring. Also, their accuracy and ability to function under harsh conditions make them suitable for external perimeter security and intrusion detection in sensitive areas.
In this sector, fibre sensors are used for non-contact measurement of critical parameters. For instance, they measure temperature distributions, strains, and mechanical vibrations in machines and finished products. This improves quality control. Additionally, in areas with high electromagnetic interference (EMI) risks, such as non-contact sensing, fibre sensors are extremely useful.
Fibre sensors provide reliable long-term monitoring solutions for soil deformation, temperature changes, and pore water pressure. Thus, they give useful information during landslides and earthquakes. Also, they are applied in tunnel design and construction, as well as in evaluating retaining walls and slopes.
Immunity to electromagnetic interference
One of the most important advantages of fibre sensors is that they are immune to electromagnetic interference. This is despite the fact that most traditional sensors are affected by it. Thanks to this immunity, fibre sensors can be used even in places with high electromagnetic fields. At these points, metal sensors would not work properly.
Sensitivity
These sensors have high sensitivity when optical measuring systems or interferometric techniques detect minute changes in strain, temperature, or other parameters. This makes them well suited for precision measurements.
Lightweight and small
Fibre sensors are compact and have a light construction. This makes them easy to install and significantly reduce the impact on the structures they monitor.
Resolution
Fibre sensors can very well provide spatial resolution. Usually, this is because they allow measurements along the length of the fibre. Therefore, this capability enables the detection of gradients and variations in the parameters across the monitored area.
Durability
The optical fibres used to make the fibre sensors are quite strong. Usually, they are made from silica or polymer. The materials ensure that the sensors are rugged and durable. Additionally, these sensors can withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Multiplexing capability
Often, fibre sensors are able to multiplex. This means that multiple sensors can be operated on a single fibre. This helps reduce the overall system complexity. More importantly, it still provides comprehensive data coverage.
Cut the fibre to the desired length
In this step, business owners can use a clean and precise cutting tool to ensure a straight, clean cut. This prevents any damage to the fibre. Then, they should measure the section to be monitored. Finally, they should mark and then cut the fibre at the measurement point.
Attach connectors if necessary
If the task at hand requires the fibre to be connected to instruments, then business owners should attach the appropriate connectors. Ideally, business owners should use the right adhesive to bond the fibre to the connector. This ensures there is minimal loss of light when at work.
Install the fibre sensing cable
For the installation process, the optic fibres should be secured in place. Moreover, the installation environment will determine how to secure the fibres. For example, in the construction industry, the fibres can be glued to concrete or embedded in steel.
Link up the optic sensing cable to the reading device
To do this, business owners should connect the fibre cable to the optical interrogator or any other related devices they are using. They should ensure that the cables are properly secured and protected to avoid any damage during the monitoring process.
Calibrate the system
After making the connections, businesses should run a calibration process on the system. This will give a base understanding of the parameters before any changes occur.
Regular inspection
Surveillance and evaluations should be carried out consistently on the fibres and their surrounding environment. This helps in identifying any issues that may need to be addressed urgently. During the inspection, users should look for damages, bends, or breaks in the fibre. They also need to check for any connectors that might have come loose.
Cleaning
The optical fibres need to be cleaned periodically to remove any contaminants. These include dust, debris, or chemicals that may have accumulated over time. To do this, users should use a lint-free cloth and appropriate fibre cleaning solutions to wipe the surface of the cable. They should ensure no residue is left so as not to interfere with the signals.
Monitoring system performance
Business owners should be observant of the performance of their monitoring systems throughout the process. In situations where monitoring data is progressively inconsistent or abnormal, there could be a problem somewhere down the optics. Therefore, they should investigate and correspond with the data to see if they can pinpoint the issue.
Environmental protection
Business owners should ensure the optic fibres are protected from any harsh environmental conditions that may lead to their degradation. This includes extreme temperatures, chemical exposure, or mechanical impacts. When the situation demands it, users should add protective sheathing or coverings to shield the fibres.
Prompt repairs
Upon noticing any damage, users should ensure there is a quick response to the issue. Delaying repairs might end up risking the integrity of the monitored structure or system. Depending on the level of damage, either a quick fix or a full replacement of the cable needs to be undertaken.
For any useful product, quality and safety considerations are key factors to think about. Here are some of them for fibre sensors.
Materials
Often, the materials used to make these sensors directly influence their quality. Most high-quality fibre sensors are made of silica. This is because of its unmatched strength and flexibility as well as transparency properties. There are also some made from polymer fibres. These fibres are more sensitive to various measures. However, this comes at the cost of lower durability. Therefore, for long-term use, it is advisable to go for silica fibres.
Bragg grating inscription
The quality of the Bragg grating will, therefore, affect the sensor performance. Professional and quality-oriented manufacturers use Excimer lasers or other advanced inscription methods to create precise and uniform gratings. Inconsistency will lead to imprecise measurements and reduced sensitivity.
Sensor design
Quality fibre sensors usually have robust and well-thought-out designs. In other words, the best sensors have protective sheathing or coatings around them. These provide extra durability, particularly in adverse conditions. Businesses should also consider sensors with multiple gratings. This enhances their versatility.
Optical fibre sensors
Optical characteristics are a major determinant of the quality of the sensors. To ensure the highest quality is achieved, manufacturers reduce the amount of light loss or attenuation. This is because high attenuation will reduce the distance at which the sensors can effectively operate. Also, there ought to be a high signal-to-noise ratio.
Handling precautions
Directly translating fibre sensors from standard glass-based optical fibres, fibre sensors require careful handling. This is to avoid breakages and ensure safety all across the board. Business owners should wear protective gloves and goggles when handling these sensors. Additionally, operators should be cautious of their surroundings to avoid running over the fibres with heavy objects.
Storage
Proper storage of these fibres keeps them functional and usable when needed. Business owners should store the sensors in protective sheaths or cases when not in use. This helps prevent any physical damage. Also, the storage environment should be in a dry place away from extreme heat, chemicals, or direct sunlight. These have adverse effects on the integrity of the sensing cable.
Installation safety
During installation, operators should be careful. This is because the fibres are delicate, especially if they have been embedded in concrete or any other construction material. In such environments, they should avoid excessive force or any sharp objects that may lead to cutting the fibres.
Emergency detection systems
Fibre sensors are often employed in critical monitoring applications. For instance, monitoring dams, bridges, and other infrastructure. In such situations, it is equally important to have a reliable monitoring and detection system in place to quickly identify any failures or issues. Additionally, some fibre sensors are able to provide real-time data and alerts. This enables proactive maintenance and enhances safety in all spaces.
Data accuracy
For the fibre sensors to be safe, ensure there is no hazardous interaction between the environment and the sensors. In other words, accurate data means that no dangerous situations will go unnoticed. Business owners should ensure their sensing systems are calibrated and functioning as they should. Using the right kinds of pollution sensors ensures they give accurate readings all the time.
Fibre sensors are very durable, especially when made from silica fibres. They handle extreme temperatures, chemicals, and even moisture exposure. The best thing about them is that they are robust enough to withstand high levels of electrical interference.
Most of the time, these sensors can be seamlessly integrated into existing structures. This is by embedding them into materials like concrete during construction. Other times, attaching them to the surface during post-construction monitoring.
Yes, fibre sensors are fit for long-distance monitoring. They are able to transmit data over several kilometres with low attenuation. This makes them ideal for large-scale infrastructures like pipelines.
Yes, fibre sensors are quite resistant to humidity and liquid penetration. They have protective coatings that safeguard them from adverse environmental elements.
Typically, fibre sensors have no metal components in them. This goes a long way to making them immune to magnetic fields and electromagnetic interference. This gives them a distinct advantage over metal sensors in numerous applications.
