Fiber Optic Pressure Sensor with Self-compensation Capability for Harsh Environment Applications

Abstract

A novel fiber optic pressure sensor system with self-compensation capability for harsh environment applications is reported. The system compensates for the fluctuation of source power and the variation of fiber losses by self-referencing the two channel outputs of a fiber optic extrinsic Fabry-Pérot interfrometric (EFPI) sensor probe. A novel sensor fabrication system based on the controlled thermal bonding method is also described. For the first time, high-performance fiber optic EFPI sensor probes can be fabricated in a controlled fashion with excellent mechanical strength and temperature stability to survive and operate in the high-pressure and high-temperature coexisting harsh environment. Using a single-mode fiber sensor probe and the prototype signal-processing unit, we demonstrate pressure measurement up to 8400 psi and achieved resolution of 0.005% (2σ=0.4 psi) at atmospheric pressure, repeatability of ±0.15% (±13 psi), and 25-h stability of 0.09% (7 psi). The system also shows excellent remote operation capability when tested by separating the sensor probe from its signal-processing unit at a distance of 6.4 km.

Department(s)

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Sponsor(s)

Chevron Corporation
United States. Department of Energy

Keywords and Phrases

Fiber Optic Sensors; Optical Fibre Fabrication; Optical Fibre Losses; Optical Fibre Testing; Pressure Measurement; Pressure Sensors; Fabry-Perot interferometers

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

0091-3286

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2005 SPIE -- the International Society for Optical Engineering, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2005

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