Instrotech's Inspecta FFT tube leak detection system - fully South African-designed and manufactured - is now installed at another Australian power station to protect boilers from expensive damage caused by undetected steam leaks.
This is the second contract in Australia and is for two systems for Mount Piper power station in Portland. In 1999, Instrotech gained their first breakthrough into 'down-under' with a supply contract to Flinders Power in Port Augusta. Both contracts involve protection on two boilers of 660 MW.
The Inspecta FFT (now in its third generation and installed on all South African power station boilers and also in Germany, India and China) is, in essence, an early warning system. The sound within a boiler is continually monitored. Changes in audio patterns are an indication of leaks developing in tubes within the boiler. Severe mechanical damage can occur if leaks go undetected. With Inspecta, leak progression can be monitored and shutdowns for repairs can be planned to take place out of peak power periods.
Installation of the systems are to be supervised by Instrotech's Australian office which was established eight years ago to market the full range of Instrotech - developed instrumentation such as panel meters, transmitters and controllers.
Both contracts include a five-year full maintenance contract. All boilers are fitted with automatic air purge, which assist in providing maintenance-free operation. This feature has now become standard with all new installation tube leak detection contracts. All four systems are modem-connected to the Instrotech office and on two occasions the power station was notified of a developing leak from 400 km away.
Mining sector turns to private renewables
News
As the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism enters its permanent phase and global buyers tighten emissions disclosure requirements, South African mining operations are accelerating the integration of privately contracted renewable power into their energy mix.
Read more...Appointment Beckhoff Automation
News
Beckhoff Automation has appointed Luzuko Bulembu as technical support engineer.
Read more...From the editor's desk: You could be doing what? Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control)
News
Humanoid robots are increasingly featuring in the news. Some of them are a bit creepy, some make you anxious because they might take your job, but others are a lot of fun, and they’re getting better ...
Read more...Experience ICRA 2026 right here in Gqeberha, South Africa
News
The IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) is the largest robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, and manufacturing conference in the world. You can experience the premier keynote and plenary presentations in Gqeberha.
Read more...Elevating artisanal skills is key to revitalising South Africa’s economy ACTOM Electrical Machines
News
We need to challenge the stigma attached to artisanal and technical careers, and we also need a mindset shift supported by the schooling system so that young people understand future career pathways, choose subjects accordingly, and recognise that artisanal and technical skills carry equal value in a modern economy.
Read more...40 years of PC-based control Beckhoff Automation
News
When Beckhoff elevated the industrial computer to the status of a central control system four decades ago, a paradigm shift occurred.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version