Deposit & Slag Analysis
Microbeam is a recognized leader in using advanced analysis to understand the impacts of fuel impurities on power system performance. We work to understand the root cause behind forced outages and recommend steps to prevent them.
Using Scanning Electron Microscopy Point Count (SEMPC) to assess ash and deposits, we provide detailed insight on the melting, particle interactions and phases present in the samples. SEM morphological analysis provides insight into the size, crystallinity and phase positions, helping to understand particle-to-particle bonding and sticky surface formation.
Combining morphology and SEMPC provides a comprehensive understanding of deposition problems, aiding in solutions to minimize ash-related issues. Microbeam also utilizes phase mapping (like the image to the right below) to illustrate the distribution of phases in deposits.
Regardless of deposit type, feedstock origin or plant configuration, Microbeam is skilled in handling specialization. We analyze ash deposits to identify the components and conditions responsible for ash deposit formation, allowing you to zero in on the root cause and solve the problem. We utilize a suite of world-class analytical techniques such as morphological analysis, SEMPC, elemental mapping and phase mapping to characterize these ash and deposits.
Our forensic analysis techniques can discover clues about how a deposit formed and how to avoid its formation.
Black and white backscattered image (left) to elemental phase mapped image (right)
Upon completion of the analysis, professionals at Microbeam review the SEM data and other analyses to provide detailed reports with key findings and recommendations for solving specific problems and achieving enhanced power system performance.
Morphology Image Aquisition to Elemental Phase Map Overlay
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Interested in learning more? Contact us to see how we can help.