Autoclave Pre-Leak Warning System

Project Overview:

At a nylon manufacturing facility there are autoclaves that have heat transfer coils filled with a flammable heat transfer fluid. Within the coil is a helical stirring blade. Should the blade move off tolerance and rub on the coil, a leak can occur that could cause a catastrophic event. The object of the system is to detect impact or rubbing of the stirring blade on the coils.

System Description:

The system consists of a 12 channel system with sensors placed strategically so as to cover any possible contact/rub event. There are two alarm set points per channel. One is a high alarm to notify of an unacceptable event, the other is a low set point to alarm should power be disrupted. Should an event occur, the system signals an alarm and transitions a relay contact closure. There are two alarm points, one to give a warning and one to notify control personnel of an unacceptable condition that needs immediate attention.