Real Time Thermal Imaging Capability for Propulsion Systems

Apogee has been working since 2012 to develop thermal imaging systems for use on turbine engines to gather the thermal radiation and measure the temperature of rotor blades. Legacy instruments can only be applied to turbine test engines because the IR detectors have a need for liquid nitrogen cooling and require the penetration hole into the engine to be relatively large. If this technology can be made smaller and accessible using existing bore-scope inspection points, then these instruments can efficiently inspect production engines currently in use.Apogee proposes a method allowing its new instrument to be manufactured within the specifications of current state of the art turbine engines. This method is rugged and able to withstand the high (+1500F) temperatures associated within the engines combustion chamber. Apogees newest line of instruments utilize advanced software, efficient IR detection technology, novel cooling methods, and cost savings through high volume manufacturing practices. Apogees new thermal imager accesses a variety of turbine engines allowing inspection on-tarmac or on-wing allowing expensive depot maintenance intervals to be extended.