Characterization and calibration of Raman based distributed temperature sensing system for 600 °C operation

Fiber optic distributed temperature sensing based on Raman scattering of light in optical fibers has become a very attractive solution for distributed temperature sensing (DTS) applications. The Raman scattered signal is independent of strain within the fiber, enabling simple packaging solutions for fiber optic temperature sensors while simultaneously improving accuracy and robustness of temperature measurements due to the lack of strain-induced errors in these measurements. Furthermore, the Raman scattered signal increases in magnitude at higher fiber temperatures, resulting in an improved SNR for high temperature measurements. Most Raman DTS instruments and fiber sensors are designed for operation up to approximately 300 degrees C. We will present our work in demonstrating high temperature calibration of a Raman DTS system using both Ge doped and pure silica core multi-mode optical fiber. We will demonstrate the tradeoffs involved in using each type of fiber for high temperature measurements. In addition, we will describe the challenges of measuring large temperature ranges (0 - 600 degrees C) with a single DTS interrogator and will demonstrate the need to customize the interrogator electronics and detector response in order to achieve reliable and repeatable high temperature measurements across a wide temperature range.