AMETEK Land will be revealing NIR-B Glass, a new thermal imaging near infrared borescope designed specifically for use in glass melt tanks, with an optional auto-retract version for additional instrument protection, at glasstec 2016, September 20-23, in Dusseldorf, Germany.

NIR-B Glass reportedly provides continuous real-time temperature data combined with a thermal video image, allowing a single solution to replace the traditional approaches of visual cameras and periodic handheld pyrometry. With over 324,000 available temperature measurement points in the field of view, the NIR-B Glass solution also can be used to monitor the drift in crown roof thermocouples. The wide 90º horizontal field of view reportedly allows operators to see and measure large scenes using just one device.

Designed specifically for the glass melt furnace working environment, the NIR-B Glass is designed to withstand the high ambient temperatures through an integral cooling system, with a specially designed air purge to keep the lens clear of contaminants so the instrument can provide 24/7 data to the plant. An optional auto-retract unit is available as additional instrumentation protection in the event of either air purge fail, water cooling fail, power fail, or an over-temperature condition at the probe tip.

According to the company, the NIR-B Glass solution has been proven to provide an operating plant with the ability to clearly “see” cold spots from air leaks coming through structural refractory, meaning that cracks or collapses are easily detected. Combined with the ability to visualize flames, this allows the plant to optimize the flame pattern and burn efficiency.  The ability to overlay thermal profiles across the crown and along the melt allows for accurate batch line control, production throughput optimization and batch transit time recording.

Advanced software features allow multiple visual or output alarm controls to be set as specified by the plant. This can be critical in extending the lifespan of the melt tank refractory and in providing greater asset protection through more accurate, remote infrared temperature measurement and live thermal imaging. 

For more information, visit www.landinst.com.