AP Sensing GmbH products

This technology makes use offiber optic sensor cables, typically over lengths of several kilometers,that function as linear temperature sensors. The result isa continuous temperature profilealong the entire length of the sensor cable. DTS utilizes theRaman effectto measure temperature. An opticallaser pulsesent through the fiber results in some scattered light reflecting back to the transmitting end, where it is analyzed. The intensity of the Raman scattering is a measure of thetemperaturealong the fiber. The Raman anti-Stokes signal changes its amplitude significantly with changing temperature, the Raman Stokes signal is relatively stable.

These systemsdetect vibrations and capture acoustic energy along the optical fiber.The fiber functions as if there were  thousands of microphones installed.Classification algorithms are usedto detect and locate, for example, intrusion activities.

In many applications, such as fire detection, simple maximum thresholds, temperature gradients or temperature difference to average are enough to enable reliable protection. Our proprietary SmartAlarm Technology goes beyond these simple methods. In cooperation with experts in each application field, we have developed unique methods and algorithms to detect, for example, smaller leaks, even in cases where ambient conditions are changing and the leak itself does not generate a huge delta T.

Sensor cables are available with metal tubing or metal-free, with tube-in-tube or armored stainless steel configurations, and with a wide range of appropriate sheathings, for example FRNC (flame retardant non-corrosive). Fibers need to be selected for the applicable temperature range and sensing technology. Sensing fibers for normal temperature ranges utilizingacrylatecoating, cryogenic and higher temperature ranges usepolyamidecoating and extra high temperature applications may require metallized fibers such ascopper alloycoatings orgold-coatedfibers. Sensor cables areavailable with MM (multimode) and SM (singlemode) fibersor a combination of both, as well as embedded copper wires for hybrid use. Our team of application engineers will work with you on the application requirements and will work with our cable manufacturing partners to finda balance between costs, thermal conductivity and ruggedness.