Temperature Measurement in Carbon Black Production

Two-colour pyrometry for high-temperature reactors with restricted optical access

Temperature is a key process variable in carbon black production. Together with residence time and quenching, it influences particle formation and product properties. Continuous temperature monitoring helps operators follow reactor conditions, identify changes and maintain a consistent production process.

In furnace-black and acetylene-black reactors, high temperatures, particle-laden atmospheres and deposits create demanding measurement conditions. Infrared pyrometers provide non-contact monitoring without inserting a sensor into the hot reaction zone.

Two-colour, or ratio, pyrometers determine temperature from radiation measured at two wavelengths. This principle can reduce the influence of dust and partially contaminated viewing windows when both channels are affected similarly and sufficient signal remains. Hot particles can also emit radiation, so the measuring point must be selected carefully: a reading from a carbon particle cloud is not automatically the temperature of the reactor wall or surrounding gas.

The KELLER CellaFurnace PX 46 offers a measuring range of 900–3,200 °C and focusable precision optics with a narrow measuring field. These features make it a candidate for suitable high-temperature targets viewed through small openings or sighting tubes. Available sighting options support alignment, while IO-Link communication and an analogue output enable integration into the plant control system.

A successful installation depends on the complete measuring arrangement. Target definition, working distance, tube dimensions, window transmission and process atmosphere determine the appropriate configuration. Purging, cooling and mounting equipment must also match the operating environment.

KELLER supports the assessment of your carbon black measuring point, from optical access and instrument selection to protection and data integration. Contact our application specialists with your temperature range and an installation drawing to discuss a suitable solution.