Using a Quantum Cascade Laser Analyzer to Implement Energy Savings in Combustion Control

A new analyzer technology provides the power utilities, industrial boiler plants, petrochemical, refining and other industries a combustion tool for the control of process heaters and boilers. The analyzer uses a single Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) to measure and read ppm CO, %H2O, %CO2 and %O2 directly in combustion flue gas. This in-situ analyzer providing real-time combustion constituent data provides the opportunity to maximize fuel efficiency while eliminating unsafe CO levels. Applications available for the analyzer including combustion optimization for energy efficiency, safety monitoring, green house gas content and lowering emissions are discussed. An installation in a power utility electric generation plant boiler is described detailing the benefit resulting from achieving the ideal balance of low excess air and combustion produced CO. When incorporated as part of a Safety Instrumented System (SIS), the analyzer can be used as a monitor for high CO (precursor of combustibles) and low excess air measured as O2. Using a patented algorithm, the O2 measurement is impervious to outside air contamination and potential false readings. The Quantum Cascade Laser technology is discussed, detailing how it offers multi-gas measurements, high reliability, no drift, no calibration requirement, fast analysis and operation in the challenges of the industrial combustion environment which encompass high temperatures, corrosive gases, varying gas pressures, and particulate interferences.