A Hydrogen Fire Detection System Using A Thermal Imaging System And Its Application To Space Launch Vehicles

Brian Harper; Tim Norman

doi:10.1117/12.969703

1 April 1990 A Hydrogen Fire Detection System Using A Thermal Imaging System And Its Application To Space Launch Vehicles

Brian Harper, Tim Norman

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 1191, Optical Systems for Space and Defence; (1990) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.969703
Event: SIRA/Optical Systems for Space and Defence, 1989, London, United Kingdom

Abstract

Hydrogen fires emit near zero radiation in the visible waveband : in daylight they are virtually invisible. This is a major safety hazard particularly in the aerospace industry where hydrogen is used as a rocket propellant. A practical imaging system has been constructed to detect non-visible radiation that these fires give off. The emission spectra, atmospheric transmission, background emission and reflection have been quantified under many conditions. This shows thermal wavelengths are well suited for this application. A low cost, uncooled, staring array TV compatible thermal imager has been optimised for this. The resultant image is 'punched through' to superimpose the flame on a bore-sighted visual TV picture. The theory and operation of the imager are explained.

Citation Download Citation

Brian Harper and Tim Norman "A Hydrogen Fire Detection System Using A Thermal Imaging System And Its Application To Space Launch Vehicles", Proc. SPIE 1191, Optical Systems for Space and Defence, (1 April 1990); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.969703

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available