Application Description
High electrical energy adjacent to conductive surfaces creates conditions favorable to spark production much as lightning occurs in a thunderstorm. Sparks result from a discharge of electrical energy and the resulting oxidation of the natural atmosphere to produce ozone. Energy is released in the near infrared region, invisible to the human eye, which results in the further generation of heat and light. Light is broad spectrum white light visible to the human eye.
Sparks can produce substantial damage to products in process as energy release can lead to combustion. Electrical equipment such as microwave ovens, radio transmitters and motors are often equipped with spark detection sensors and automatic shut-down/product evacuation measures to prevent sparks from initiating combustion.
Sensors tuned to detect in the near infrared region respond to the initial energy release. When coupled with fast acting electrical circuitry, early detection can initiate measures to prevent combustion.
Spart detectors are also used in adhesive processing to confirm operations that require a spark to effect curing.
