Development of a compensated capacitance sensor for solid mass flow measurement in pneumatic conveying systems

Abstract

This dissertation describes research and experimental work done to improve the accuracy and applicability of capacitive sensors which are used to evaluate the mass flow rate of solid material within pneumatic conveying environments in power plant engineering applications. The research is focused on creating a measurement methodology on which solid mass flow rate can be evaluated without being dependent on variable flow regimes. The proposed research investigates the process of identifying four different types of flow regimes using a decision tree that utilises support vector machines and cut off values. During the study an investigation was also made into what electrode setup would provide proficient information regarding the flow distribution and orientation. Compensation according to the identified regime is then proposed by means of using a nonlinear fraction curves determined through calibration experiments.