Conventional sensors are usually limited in size. Power stations and transformers are critical structures and need to be monitored for over-heating and vibrational problems. Conventional electrical or magnetic techniques suffer extreme noise problems due to electro-magnetic interference. Optical strain gauges can be adhered to these structures to monitor temperature, vibrations, cracking, strains and stresses, and several other important parameters in real-time, without the noise limitations. Undersea pipelines are generally not monitored at all due to the lack of any reliable and durable techniques.
Undersea pipelines are in a harsh, corrosive environment.
In addition, their lengths can vary from a few meters to several hundred kilometres. Conventional conductive sensors have difficulties surviving the environment and they have electrical noise problems. Pressure vessel monitoring - the Chemical and Petrochemical industries have an ongoing need to monitor the structural health and integrity of all their reaction and containment tanks and cylinders. This can be done with semi permanent sensors but durability and accuracy are essential or false alarms may result. The inherent advantages of the Foptic TM Vibration Sensor makes this market a certain target.