Steam Turbine Condenser Air Ingress Identification Using Infrared Image

Abstract

This paper looked at the findings and analysis of a practical investigation into measuring air ingress to a steam power plant condenser using an infrared (IR) thermal imaging camera. The transient circumstances heat transfer of the condenser's surfaces were researched in order to use a single heating element with changing heat flow contributions. The investigation was conducted out on a condenser with a changing load, with thermal images taken with an infrared sensor and saved on a computer. The thermal resistance of the condenser was found to be about 40% lower than that of the damaged condenser.