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Technical Paper

Using Time Domain Reflectometry to Measure Fluid Properties for IVHM Applications

2015-09-15
2015-01-2593
Time Domain Reflectometery (TDR) is a Radio Frequency (RF) technology that has been used for many years to find cable breaks and measure fluid levels in industrial processes. The technology uses picosecond length pulses and the associated reflections off the fluid surface in a time of flight measurement to determine fluid height. TDR signals have additional information that can be processed and utilized for Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) applications. For example, when water collects in the fuel tank, TDR is capable of identifying and measuring the amount of water. This can allow the water sumps to be drained on condition instead of on a schedule. In addition, electromagnetic properties of the fluid can be determined, such as the dielectric constant, which can be used to identify mis-fueling situations, contaminants in the fluid, and potentially other fluid health properties.
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