Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS)

 

Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS) uses fiber optic sensor cables, typically over lengths of several kilometers, that function as linear temperature sensors. The result is a continuous temperature profile along the entire length of the sensor cable.

DTS utilizes the Raman effect to measure temperature. An optical laser pulse sent through the fiber results in some scattered light reflecting back to the transmitting end, where the information is analyzed.

The intensity of the Raman scattering is a measure of the temperature along the fiber. The Raman anti-Stokes signal changes its amplitude significantly with changing temperature; the Raman Stokes signal is relatively stable.

 

The position of the temperature reading is determined by measuring the arrival timing of the returning light pulse similar to a radar echo. This method is called Optical Time Domain Reflectometry (OTDR). AP Sensing uses its patented Code Correlation OTDR. Coding allows utilization of low optical power, elimination of any problems with laser degradation and enables worry-free, long-term measurement stability.

The DTS Technology is also known as Raman OTDR or Raman OFDR (Optical Frequency Domain Reflectometry). The Raman effect is named after the Indian physicist Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (1888-1970), who discovered that when light traverses a transparent material, some of the deflected light changes in wavelength. This ground-breaking work in the field of light scattering, earned him the Nobel Prize for Physics. 

Some other DTS technologies also use the Brillouin backscatter (B-OTDR or B-OTDA), which carries strain and temperature information. Such systems are also called DTSS (Distributed Temperature and Strain Sensing). The challenge with these systems is to isolate the fiber from strain to get accurate temperature information. 

AP Sensing uses the Raman OTDR technology with unique techniques such as code correlation technology and a patented single receiver design for both Stokes and anti-Stokes. This approach results in outstanding system reliability (immune to the effects of strain, which can lead to anomalous readings), accurate measurements and high performance.

Click here to learn more about our new DTS system, the N45-Series.

Video: How Does DTS/Raman Reflectometry Work?