阅读说明：本技术 火焰检测以及点火装置 (Flame detection and ignition device ) 是由 多米尼克·格里洛蒂 吉勒斯·泰斯 克莱门特·贝尔西列昂 于 2020-03-26 设计创作，主要内容包括：本文公开了一种离子化和/或点火装置,其包括：内杆、外套筒和电绝缘体。内杆包括半导体耐火材料。外套筒包括半导体耐火材料。电绝缘体设置在内杆与外套筒之间。内杆材料的硬度大于外套筒材料。(Disclosed herein is an ionization and/or ignition device comprising: an inner rod, an outer sleeve, and an electrical insulator. The inner rod comprises a semi-conductive refractory material. The outer sleeve comprises a semi-conductive refractory material. An electrical insulator is disposed between the inner rod and the outer sleeve. The hardness of the inner rod material is greater than that of the outer sleeve material.)

1. An apparatus configured to function as an ionization detection device and/or an ignition device, the apparatus comprising:

an inner rod comprising a first semiconductor refractory material having a first hardness;

an outer sleeve comprising a second semi-conductive refractory material having a second hardness;

an electrical insulator disposed between the inner rod and the outer sleeve;

wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the inner rod and/or the outer sleeve comprise a non-oxide ceramic.

3. The device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the inner rod and/or the outer sleeve comprise silicon carbide.

4. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner rod comprises recrystallized silicon carbide.

5. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer sleeve comprises sintered silicon carbide.

6. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer sleeve comprises silicon-infiltrated silicon carbide.

7. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer sleeve comprises a refractory metal, preferably a refractory stainless steel.

8. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the inner rod has a longitudinal cross-section that is substantially circular or substantially polygonal.

9. A flame ionization detection and/or flame ignition device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer sleeve is substantially tubular.

10. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer sleeve comprises a tip end, a root end distal from the tip end, and a connector portion disposed adjacent the root end for connection with an attachment sleeve.

11. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein the outer sleeve comprises microstructural features representing a component that has been machined and subsequently sintered.

12. A device as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11 in which the outer sleeve comprises a main body portion and the connector portion has a maximum radial or diametrical dimension which is less than a maximum outer radial or diametrical dimension of the main body portion.

13. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a tip of the outer sleeve comprises one or more protruding tips configured to extend toward the inner rod to define an air gap therebetween.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the protruding tip has a tapered end that tapers toward the air gap.

15. The device of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a connection sleeve connected with a root end of the outer sleeve, the connection sleeve comprising an electrically conductive material.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein the connection sleeve comprises a material that is less stiff and/or less temperature resistant than the outer sleeve.

17. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner rod has a root end, and wherein the ionization and/or ignition device further comprises a connecting rod connected to the root end of the inner rod, the connecting rod comprising an electrically conductive material.

18. The device of claim 17, wherein the connecting rod comprises a material that is less stiff and/or less temperature resistant than the inner rod.

19. The apparatus of any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the electrically conductive material of the connection sleeve or the connection bar comprises a metal.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the metal comprises stainless steel.

21. The device of any one of claims 17 to 20, further comprising a connecting structure configured to fixedly connect the connecting rod and the inner rod to each other through an outer surface of the rod.

22. The device of any one of claims 15 to 21, wherein the connection sleeve comprises a threaded portion configured to connect with a threaded portion of the outer sleeve.

23. The device of claim 21 or 22, wherein the electrical insulator is disposed between and in contact with an inner surface of the outer sleeve and an outer surface of the inner rod; and wherein the electrical insulator is disposed between and in contact with the inner surface of the coupling sleeve and the outer surface of the clamping mechanism.

24. A method of manufacturing an ionization detection and/or ignition device, comprising the steps of:

providing an outer sleeve comprising a semi-conductive refractory material;

providing an inner rod within the outer sleeve, the inner rod comprising a semi-conductive refractory material that is harder than the material of the inner rod;

an electrical insulator is provided between the inner rod and the outer sleeve.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a device configured for one or both of flame detection and/or flame ignition in an industrial burner. In particular, the present invention relates to a flame detection and/or ignition device having an improved construction that combines manufacturability and high temperature application capability.

Background

It is known to use electrodes as detectors of ionization that can occur at high temperatures, such as in a flame or combustion site.

British patent No. 879,482, filed 8/13/1959, describes a flame detector having electrodes comprising a refractory semiconductor material for monitoring the presence of a flame in a furnace. The electrode includes an active portion comprised of a silicon carbide rod that may be disposed in a hole in the furnace wall and protrude into the furnace. The detector also includes circuitry configured such that when a grounded flame is present near the silicon carbide electrode, a current will flow from the negative terminal to ground, which can be detected to determine the presence of a flame.

It is known to incorporate the function of a flame detector in a device which also functions as a flame ignitor. US patent No. US 4,245,977 filed on 25/4/1977 describes a method and apparatus for hydrocarbon flame ignition and detection. This document teaches the use of a pair of flame detection electrodes located at the flame field, spaced to accommodate the reaction zone of the flame. One of the electrodes may act as an ignition element and, according to this document, has sufficient resistance to self-heat in response to current flowing therethrough. In one aspect of the invention described in this document, an AC line voltage is applied across the resistive electrodes during the ignition phase to cause sufficient heating to ignite the flame. During the sensing phase, an AC line voltage is applied across the electrode gap. In another aspect of the invention of this document, there is a so-called "wall-quenching" effect in which both electrodes are thermally heated by a flame to reduce the ignition time.

German utility model DE 202004006644U 1 describes an ionization device for flame monitoring and an ignition device for gas or oil burners. The device in this document comprises a conductive ceramic body. The ignition device has two electrodes shaped as rods and arranged side by side with a spark formed between them.

It is also known to use pilot lamps for lighting the burner and scanner devices for detecting flames. Examples of flame detection systems include thermocouple flame detection, flame ionization as described above, and optical scanning for flame presence. However, the known optical scanners commonly used are complex and expensive devices.

There is a need for improved ionization and ignition devices.

Disclosure of Invention

A first aspect of the invention provides an apparatus configured to function as an ionization detection apparatus and/or an ignition apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

an inner rod comprising a first semiconductor refractory material having a first hardness;

an outer sleeve comprising a second semi-conductive refractory material having a second hardness;

an electrical insulator disposed between the inner rod and the outer sleeve;

wherein the first hardness is greater than the second hardness.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the term "refractory" refers to a material that is capable of retaining its properties at elevated temperatures, such as at a combustion site. The refractory material has the property of being resistant to high temperatures without melting or decomposing while remaining inactive and inert. In particular, the refractory material may maintain structural integrity and not undergo a phase change at temperatures, such as above 500 ℃ (e.g., various grades of stainless steel). More specifically, certain refractory materials may maintain structural integrity and not undergo a phase change (e.g., silicon carbide) above 1400 ℃, which may be beneficial in certain embodiments of the present invention.

An advantage of this arrangement is that it provides a device in which the inner rod can be shaped and dimensioned for high temperature applications, and the outer sleeve, which is less stiff than the inner rod, can be shaped and dimensioned for attachment to an anchoring site or otherwise. The advantage of this arrangement is that it combines ease of manufacture with reliable performance.

The apparatus of the present invention may be used for one or both of these purposes. In some applications, the device is used as a flame ionization detection device. In other applications, the device may be used as a flame ignitor. In other applications, the device may be used as a flame detection and ignition device. It will become apparent upon reading the following description that certain features may be adapted to enable the apparatus to perform either or both of these functions in an improved manner. Thus, depending on its construction and use, such a device may be referred to as an ionization device or an ionization detection device, or as an ignition device, or both.

The inner rod material may comprise a non-oxide ceramic. The inner rod may comprise silicon carbide. The inner rod may comprise recrystallized silicon carbide. The young's modulus of the inner rod material may be about greater than 200GPa, preferably greater than 250GPa, more preferably 280GPa as measured using ASTM E111-17 ("young's modulus standard test"). The mechanical resistance (3 bending points) of the inner rod material at 20 ℃ may be about 80-100 MPa. The mechanical resistance (3 bending points) of the inner rod material at 1000 ℃ may be about 90-110 MPa. The density of the inner rod material may be about 2.7g/cm³. The water absorption of the inner rod material may be about 5%. The thermal conductivity of the inner rod material at 200 ℃ can be 35W m^-1K^-1. The inner rod material has a coefficient of thermal expansion of 4.5 × 10 at 20-1000 deg.C^-6K^-1. The Vickers hardness of the inner rod material may be 2400-^-2。

The inner rod may be substantially cylindrical. The advantage is to provide a device which can be exposed to high temperatures, for example in the presence of flames, and which has mechanical resistance without compromising the ease of manufacture. The inner rod may be generally elongate. The length-diameter ratio of the inner rod can be more than 1: 10. The aspect ratio can be greater than 1:10 (i.e., 1:10+) with the diameter of the cylinder being less than the length of the cylinder.

The outer sleeve may comprise a non-oxide ceramic. The outer sleeve may comprise silicon carbide. The outer sleeve may comprise sintered silicon carbide. The outer sleeve may have sintered microstructure features (indicative). The outer sleeve may comprise silicon infiltrated silicon carbide. The outer sleeve may comprise metal having fire resistant properties orAlloys, preferably refractory stainless steels, particularly stainless steels comprising suitable amounts of refractory metals (e.g., one or more of molybdenum, niobium, tantalum, tungsten, and rhenium). The stainless steel may be coated with a ceramic material. The outer sleeve may include microstructural features of the component, wherein the component is machined prior to sintering. The poisson's ratio of the outer sleeve material may be 0.16. The hardness of the outer sleeve material may be 9.5 Mohs. The vickers hardness of the outer sleeve material may be 22 when tested with a weight of 500 Kg. The shear modulus of the outer sleeve material may be 180 GPa. The young's modulus of the outer sleeve material may be 420 GPa. The mechanical resistance (3 bending points) of the outer sleeve material at 1400 ℃ may be 450 MPa. The mechanical resistance (3 bending points) of the outer sleeve material at 1000 ℃ may be 450 MPa. The mechanical resistance (3 bending points) of the outer sleeve material at 20 ℃ may be 450 MPa. The toughness of the outer sleeve material may be 3.5MPa m^0.5. The maximum use temperature of the outer sleeve material in air may be 1450 ℃. The maximum use temperature of the outer sleeve material in a neutral atmosphere may be 1800 ℃. The total porosity of the outer sleeve material may be less than 305% volume to volume. The average crystal size of the outer sleeve material may be 5 x 10^-6And m is selected. The outer sleeve material may have a resistivity of 10 at 20 deg.c⁵Ohm. The specific heat of the outer sleeve material at 1000 ℃ may be 1180J/Kg. DEG K. The specific heat of the outer sleeve material at 500 ℃ may be 1040J/Kg. DEG K. The specific heat of the outer sleeve material at 20 ℃ may be 680J/Kg. DEG K. The linear expansion coefficient of the material of the outer sleeve between 20 and 1000 ℃ can be 4.6 multiplied by 10^-6V. C. The linear expansion coefficient of the outer sleeve material between 20-1400 ℃ can be 5.2 x 10^-6V. C. The linear expansion coefficient of the outer sleeve material between 20 ℃ and 500 ℃ can be 4 multiplied by 10^-6V. C. The thermal conductivity of the outer sleeve material at 1000 ℃ may be 40W/m. The thermal conductivity of the outer sleeve material at 20 ℃ may be 180W/m. The thermal conductivity of the outer sleeve material at 500 ℃ may be 68W/m.

The outer sleeve may be generally tubular. The outer sleeve may include a tip end, a root end distal from the tip end, and a connector portion disposed adjacent the root end for connection with the connecting sleeve. The connector portion may comprise a clamp, a threaded portion or a bayonet type retainer. The outer sleeve may comprise a body portion and the maximum transverse dimension of the threaded portion may be less than the maximum outer transverse dimension of the body portion. This has the advantage of providing a device which is easy to assemble. A body portion larger than the threaded portion may provide an end point that can act as a guide during assembly, as is clear from the end point when the device is properly threaded.

The tip of the outer sleeve may comprise one or more protruding tips. The one or more protruding tips may be configured to extend toward an inner rod of the ionization and/or ignition device to define an air gap between the protruding tips and the inner rod for flame ionization and/or flame ignition. The protruding tip may have a tapered end that tapers towards the air gap. This may have the advantage that a partial spark gap can be provided when the device is used as an ignition device.

The ionization and/or ignition device may further include a coupling sleeve coupled to the root end of the outer sleeve, the coupling sleeve including an electrically conductive material. The coupling sleeve may comprise a material having a lower hardness than the outer sleeve and/or a lower temperature resistance than the outer sleeve. This may provide a device with improved performance, ease of manufacture and efficient use of materials.

The inner rod may have a root end and the ionization and/or ignition device may further comprise a connecting rod connected to the root end of the inner rod, the connecting rod comprising an electrically conductive material. The connecting rod may comprise a material having a lower hardness and/or a lower temperature resistance than the inner rod. The conductive material of the connection sleeve or the connection rod may comprise a metal. The metal may comprise stainless steel, preferably a refractory stainless steel. Similar to providing a connecting sleeve, providing a connecting rod having any of the features described above can also provide a device with improved performance, ease of manufacture, and efficient use of materials.

The ionization and/or ignition device may include a connection structure, such as a clamping mechanism, configured to fixedly connect the connecting rod with the inner rod via the outer surface of the rod, such as via a clamping force. This may provide a reliable and stable connection between the connecting rod and the inner rod. Alternatives may include a sufficiently heat resistant glue or chemical bond. The preferred attachment structure does not require machining or shaping of the rod to facilitate attachment.

The connection sleeve may include a threaded portion configured to connect with the threaded portion of the outer sleeve. This may have the advantage of being easy to assemble and providing a reliable connection.

The electrical insulator may be disposed between and in contact with the inner surface of the outer sleeve and the outer surface of the inner rod; wherein the electrical insulator is disposed between and in contact with the inner surface of the connecting sleeve and the outer surface of the clamping mechanism. This has the advantage of providing a device in which the components are structurally supported relative to each other.

The lateral dimension of the ignition and/or ionization device may be less than 4 cm. The ignition and/or ionization device may be configured to be at least partially insertable into a 4cm wide aperture. Specifically, the outer sleeve may be configured to be at least partially insertable into a 4cm wide bore. This has the advantage of providing a device suitable for a wide range of applications which can be easily integrated into a combustion site.

Another aspect of the invention provides a method of manufacturing an ionization and/or ignition device comprising the steps of: providing an outer sleeve comprising a semi-conductive refractory material; providing an inner rod comprising a semiconductor refractory material that is harder than the inner rod material; providing an electrical insulator; inserting an inner rod into the electrical insulator; the electrical insulator and the inner rod are inserted into the outer sleeve.

The advantage of this method is the simple and efficient assembly of the ionization and/or ignition device. It will be appreciated in light of the present disclosure that any of the features of the products described above may be provided in the steps of the associated methods.

Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an ionization and/or ignition device incorporating features of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view through the device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3a shows a front view of the device of FIG. 1;

figure 3b shows a view of a detail 101 of the device of figure 1;

FIG. 4 shows a front view of the threaded portion of the device of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 5a, 5b and 5c show internal front, cross-sectional and rear views of the clamping mechanism of the device of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 6a and 6b show external front and cross-sectional views of the clamping mechanism of the device of FIG. 1; and

fig. 7 shows an expanded view of the device of fig. 1.

Detailed Description

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a flame ionization detection and/or ignition device 1 incorporating features of the present invention.

As described above, the apparatus of embodiments of the present invention may be used for one or both of two purposes. In some applications, the device is used as a flame ionization detection device. In other applications, the device may be used as a flame ignitor. In other applications, the device may be used as a flame detection and ignition device. It will become apparent upon reading the following description that certain features may be adapted to enable the apparatus to perform either or both of these functions in an improved manner. The skilled reader knows how to apply an electrical control system to the device herein to use the device shown as a flame ionization detection and/or ignition device and therefore such a control system will not be described in detail. Novel features of embodiments herein are in the physical structure and materials of the devices as described below.

Advantageously, the ionization detection and/or ignition of embodiments of the present invention are configured such that at least a portion of the device is capable of withstanding high temperatures while substantially maintaining its structural or mechanical integrity. Elevated temperatures in this context refer to those experienced in an industrial furnace or boiler and as the skilled reader will appreciate, such temperatures may include those above 800 c, preferably above 1000 c, more preferably above 1400 c. Such exposure may be a continuous exposure for a long period of time, such as during detection while in an ionized detection mode. Alternatively, the device may be subjected to brief and repeated exposures, for example, when the device is used as an ignition device, it may not be mounted directly in a flame as a flame detection device. In either case, the device may be subjected to long term or fluctuating extreme temperatures that may lead to thermal deformation of the product material. These effects may interfere with the proper operation of the device and shorten the useful life of the product.

Existing ionization detection and/or ignition devices utilize known refractory materials to provide a detector or ignition device that can withstand high temperatures. However, the complexity and durability of such devices is not suitable for all applications and the inventors of the present application have improved on these factors.

The flame ionization detection and/or ignition device 1 shown in fig. 1 comprises a rod 10 having a first end 11. The first end 11 of the rod may be exposed to elevated temperatures during use. In particular, the device may be arranged to extend through a wall (not shown) of a combustion chamber of a burner, furnace or boiler to the combustion site. The first end 11 of the rod 10 may be arranged to be directed into the chamber, i.e. to extend inwardly away from the chamber wall. This arrangement is advantageous when the device is to be re-fitted to an existing burner, which may already have suitable holes. Furthermore, where suitable holes are not present, circular holes may be readily formed by drilling operations, and the device may extend therethrough. Thus, a device of generally elongate tubular form as shown is advantageous.

As shown in fig. 1, an outer sleeve 20 may also be provided. An outer sleeve 20 is provided extending along the rod 10 and may be mounted such that the sleeve 20 also extends to the combustion site. The sleeve 20 may be electrically insulated from the rod 10 and at a first end of the device 1 (which is exposed to high temperatures in use) a gap 3 may be provided between the sleeve 20 and the rod 10, as shown in figure 1. The rod 10 and the outer sleeve 20 are designed to be electrically conductive in use, so that electrons can pass through each of the rod 10 and the outer sleeve 20 and towards and/or away from the gap 3 defined between the rod 10 and the outer sleeve 20. The size of the gap 3 between the rod 10 and the outer sleeve 20 is important for the correct operation of the device, and so the arrangement of the device has been developed such that the device 1 maintains the correct gap 3 even under the extreme temperature conditions experienced in use.

The inventors have determined that the elongated stem 10 has improved performance and improved applicability to a range of burner arrangements relative to known device configurations that perform similar functions. However, the elongated configuration described presents various challenges due to the relatively long and thin elongated configuration of rod 10 and its exposure to high temperatures. Repeated or sustained exposure to high temperatures can result in deformation of the components, and the devices herein attempt to avoid or reduce such deformation.

To address these issues, the device herein has an inner rod 10, an outer sleeve 20, and an electrical insulator 30 (better shown in fig. 2). The inner rod 10 and the outer sleeve 20 each comprise a semi-conductive refractory material. An electrical insulator is provided between the inner rod 10 and the outer sleeve 20. The inner rod 10 is stiffer than the outer sleeve 20. In particular, the inner rod 10 comprises a material having a hardness greater than the material of the outer sleeve 20. Although the inner rod 10 may comprise other materials and components, the inner rod 10 may likewise consist only of a material having a greater hardness than the material of the outer sleeve. In particular, the inner rod 10 may be composed of only one material, such as a single unitary piece of material, which is harder than the outer sleeve material. Greater stiffness is most advantageous in the inner rod 10 due to its narrow size. However, harder materials present greater manufacturing difficulties. The inventors have found that a material having a lower hardness than the shaft 10 may be used for the outer sleeve 20. This may facilitate easier manufacture of the outer sleeve 20 while providing maximum heat resistance to the inner rod 10. As will be appreciated from a reading of the following, the apparatus described herein allows for a minimal degree of manufacturing, such as material removal, on the components of the pole 10 having the greatest stiffness and heat resistance. One example of a suitable material for rod 10, in accordance with the inventive construction, is a non-oxide ceramic, such as silicon carbide, and more specifically recrystallized silicon carbide.

The described arrangement provides a device 1 which is more resistant to prolonged or repeated exposure to high temperatures than prior art devices. It is thus possible to provide the rod 10 more towards or into the flame than other components of the device 1, which may improve the performance of the device. The described arrangement also allows the construction of the rod 10 to be relatively thin and slim while still having the required mechanical properties and durability, thereby allowing the device to have improved performance and adaptability for a range of applications.

Having an outer sleeve 20 that is less stiff than the rod 10 also allows the outer sleeve 20 to be more easily manufactured with the features required to assemble the device. For example, an outer sleeve 20 that is less stiff than the rod 10 will be more easily shaped or machined than the rod 10 to have the features necessary to perform its function. Thus, the sleeve 20 may have features that are not practical for the rod 20, such as a threaded engagement feature or a feature towards its first end that provides the necessary clearance between the features of the rod 10 and the sleeve 20. This is further advantageous in that any suitable configuration of the rod 10 can be provided, as any connection or complex feature can be provided on the outer sleeve 20 that is easier to manufacture.

The insulator 30 and/or the outer sleeve 20 may be configured to support the rod 10 and may be configured for connection with the rod 10 and/or any surrounding components.

Examples of suitable semi-conductive refractory materials for the outer sleeve 20 include, but are not limited to, non-oxide ceramics, such as silicon carbide. The silicon carbide of the outer sleeve 20 may be sintered and may have sintered microfeatures. The silicon carbide of the outer sleeve 20 may be silicon infiltrated silicon carbide. Alternatively or additionally, the outer sleeve 20 may comprise a stainless steel refractory material, although other metal refractory materials may also be suitable. The outer sleeve 20 may have the visual appearance and/or internal or external microstructural features of the part that was machined prior to sintering.

The advantage of providing an outer sleeve 20 that is less stiff than the inner rod 10 is that it is easier to shape it into the desired shape during the manufacturing process. An example of a possible feature for the outer sleeve 20 is a threaded connection, which may not be practical for the inner rod 10 because the inner rod 10 is harder than the outer sleeve 20. For example, the outer sleeve 20 may include a connection structure configured to connect the outer sleeve 20 to the connection sleeve 40. The connection structure may be a threaded connection that may include a threaded portion 24 on the outer sleeve 20. The threaded portion 24 on the outer sleeve 20 may be disposed adjacent the heel end 23 of the outer sleeve 20 for connection with the connecting sleeve 40. Alternative arrangements that may be used instead of a threaded connection include a bayonet connection or a clamp connection.

Another example of a feature that is possible with the outer sleeve 20 due to its relative stiffness is one or more protruding tips 27. One, two, three or more protruding tips may be provided. An advantage of a smaller protruding tip 27 may be that it may provide an easier to manufacture device 1. The advantage of a more protruding tip may be that an improved performance of the device 1 can be provided. One or more protruding tips may be arranged to provide a predetermined gap 3 between the tip and the inner rod 10. The device 1 may be configured such that in the ignition mode, one or more of the gaps 3 acts as a spark gap, i.e. a potential difference greater than the breakdown voltage may be applied across it, thereby providing a spark across the gap. The one or more protruding tips 27 may be configured to extend towards the inner rod 10 of the ionization and/or ignition device 1, thereby defining an air gap for ionization and/or flame ignition between the one or more protruding tips 27 and the inner rod 10.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 1, four protruding tips 27 are provided, four gaps 3 being provided between each protruding tip 27 and the rod 10. Fig. 3A shows a front view of the protruding tip, wherein it can be seen that one or more of the protruding tips 27 may be substantially the same size and/or shape as each other, and this configuration may be applied to any embodiment having more than one protruding tip. The one or more protruding tips may be placed in a substantially equally spaced manner from each other in the circumferential direction around the sleeve, which may also apply in any embodiment having more than one protruding tip. The (each) protruding tip 27 may have a tapered end, as shown in fig. 1, that tapers towards the air gap, which feature may be applied in any or all embodiments. Providing one or more protruding tips with one or more tapered ends can provide improved performance as the spark gap position is controlled. Other numbers of protruding tips 27 are contemplated, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more. The plurality of tips are preferably disposed in a substantially equally spaced manner around the circumference of the first end of the sleeve 20.

Although fig. 1 and 2 illustrate one embodiment of the present invention, it should be understood that various modifications and configurations of the features of the embodiment are possible. Certain advantageous features are described herein, but it should be noted that various features and modifications not specifically listed herein may also be possible and advantageous.

As shown in fig. 1, the inner rod 10 may be generally elongate and may have a length to diameter ratio of 1:10 or greater. The aspect ratio can be greater than 1:10 (i.e., 1:10+) with a cylinder diameter less than the cylinder length, as shown in figure 1. The aspect ratio may be 1:15, more preferably 1: 20. The higher the aspect ratio, the more the tip 11 of the rod 10 can extend into the combustion vessel in use. This has the advantage that the tip 11 of the shaft 10 in the device 1 can be separated from the other components of the device 1 by a greater distance. This has the advantage of providing a greater distance between the hot location (i.e. at the tip 11 of the shaft 10) and the other components of the device. Thus, components further from the tip 11 need not be as resistant to high temperatures as the tip 11 of the shaft 10. This may allow such components (i.e., components farther from the tip 11 of the shaft 10) to have lower mechanical or thermal resistance requirements, as they may not be exposed to high temperatures. Thus, the configuration of the device may more efficiently use the appropriate gauge materials without using over-gauge components, which may unnecessarily increase manufacturing complexity and associated costs.

The inner rod 10 can have a variety of configurations, and the inner rod 10 can be any suitable shape. The rod may not be elongate but may have an end extending from the body of the inner rod 10. As shown in fig. 1, the inner rod 10 preferably extends along a substantially straight axis. In particular, the inner rod 10 may extend in a straight line or in a substantially straight line. Likewise, the inner rod 10 may have at least one or more portions that do not extend along a straight line. The bar may be configured plate-like and extend in a substantially straight direction and at least partially in a plane. The inner rod may be cylindrical, prismatic, cubic, plate-shaped, heptagonal, hexagonal, or may have a longitudinal cross-section of any polygonal or other suitable shape. The use of a solid (i.e., non-hollow) cylindrical rod is advantageous due to ease of manufacture, ease of installation in the ionization and/or ignition device 1, and reliable mechanical and electrical performance. The use of straight rods 10 is advantageous due to the simpler manufacture.

As mentioned above, the inner rod 10 may have a tip end 11 and may further have a root end 13. As shown in fig. 1-4, the inner rod 10 may have a generally uniform cross-section along its length from the root end 13 to the tip end 11. Also, the inner rod 10 may be tapered without having a uniform cross-section. The inner rod 10 may have a flat surface at the tip end 11 and/or a flat surface at the root end 13, as partially shown in fig. 1. The inner rod 10 having a substantially uniform cross-section has the advantage of being easier to manufacture, install and temperature resistant. The inner rod 10 may have rotational symmetry or be substantially symmetrical about a central axis.

The outer sleeve 20 may have various configurations, and the outer sleeve 20 may be any suitable shape. The outer sleeve 20 may be generally tubular, i.e. having the shape of an at least partially hollow tube. This has the advantage of providing a structure which can accommodate the inner rod 10. The tube may be hollow throughout its length, defining a bore through all or part of the length of the outer sleeve 20. The aperture may be substantially cylindrical or may be of any suitable shape, for example rectangular, prismatic, cubic, plate-like, heptagonal, hexagonal, or may have a polygonal or any other suitable shape. A substantially cylindrical bore has the advantage of being easy to manufacture and install. The outer sleeve 20 may have a transverse dimension of less than 4 cm. The outer sleeve 20 may be configured to be at least partially insertable into a 4cm wide bore. Other dimensions may also be beneficial, although outer diameters in the range of, for example, 2cm to 10cm may be achieved within useful ranges for different applications.

The outer sleeve 20 may include a tip end 21 and a root end 23. The root end 23 may be the end remote from the tip 21, i.e. the end which, in use, is remote from the heat source. As shown in FIG. 1, the outer sleeve 20 may include a body portion 25, and the maximum radial or diametrical dimension of the threaded portion 24 may be less than the maximum outer radial or diametrical dimension of the body portion 25. This may allow the provision of a step 26. The step 26 may radially connect the body portion 25 with the threaded portion 24. Thus, the step 26 may extend in the radial direction. The lateral extension of the step 26 may be a radial extension in a direction away from the axis a. The step 26 may provide a guide during assembly of the device 1 by acting as an alignment means and feature that can prevent the outer sleeve 20 from being incorrectly assembled. When the threaded portion 24 is provided on the outer sleeve 20, the step 26 may prevent over-rotation and possibly incorrect assembly of the outer sleeve 20. The step 26 may also provide a stabilising means by limiting the movement of the outer sleeve 20 in use, which may provide a more reliable and structurally stable device 1.

The outer sleeve 20 may be configured to receive the electrical insulator 30. The outer sleeve 20 may be configured to receive the electrical insulator 30 such that the electrical insulator 30 is aligned with the outer sleeve 20. The outer dimensions of the electrical insulator 30 may be substantially equal to the inner dimensions of the outer sleeve 20. The outer sleeve 20 may be configured such that the electrical insulator 30 may be at least partially located within the outer sleeve 20, and the electrical insulator 30 is in contact with the outer sleeve 20. This has the advantage that a structurally stable device 1 can be provided, wherein the movement of the outer sleeve 20 and the electrical insulator 30 relative to each other can be limited.

The body portion 25 of the outer sleeve 20 may have a first wall portion 251 and a second wall portion 252. As shown in fig. 2, the first wall portion 251 may define a hole, and the second wall portion 252, together with the threaded portion 24, may also define a hole. The threaded portion 24 may also define a bore. The first and second wall portions 251, 252 may each have an outer dimension. The outer dimensions of the first wall portion 251 may be equal to the outer dimensions of the second wall portion 252. The outer dimensions of the threaded portion may be smaller than the outer dimensions of the first and/or second wall portions 251, 252. The first and second wall portions 251, 252 and the threaded portion 24 may each have an internal dimension. The inner dimension of the first wall portion 251 may be larger than the inner dimension of the second wall portion 252. The internal dimensions of the threaded portion 24 may be substantially the same as the internal dimensions of the second wall portion 252. The aperture defined by the first wall portion 251 may be wider and/or longer than the aperture defined by the second wall portion 252. Each aperture may be configured to at least partially receive an electrical insulator 30. The second aperture may be configured to at least partially receive the electrical insulator 30 such that the electrical insulator 30 is aligned with the aperture of the second wall portion 252.

An electrical insulator 30 is provided between the inner rod 10 and the outer sleeve 20. The electrical insulator 30 may compriseMaterials are known which have low electrical conductivity in use. Electrical insulator 30 may comprise a material known to function as an electrical insulator. For example, the electrical insulator may comprise a non-conductive ceramic. The electrical insulator may have an electrical conductivity of less than 10^-8Siemens/cm. Electrical insulator 30 may be a single, unitary material.

An electrical insulator 30 may be partially disposed between the inner rod 10 and the outer sleeve 20. The electrical insulator 30 may be configured to at least partially receive the inner rod 10 and/or at least partially received in the outer sleeve 20.

The electrical insulator 30 may have a first portion 31, a connecting portion 32, and a second portion 33. The first portion 31 may be connected to the second portion 33 by a connecting portion 32. The first portion 31 may be configured to receive the inner rod 10. The electrical insulator 30 may be configured to receive the inner rod 10 such that the inner rod 10 is in contact with the electrical insulator 30. The inner dimension of the first portion 31 may be substantially equal to the outer dimension of the inner rod 10. The electrical insulator 30 may be configured such that the inner rod 10 may be at least partially disposed in the first portion 31 with the electrical insulator 30 in contact with the inner rod 10. This has the advantage of providing a stable device 1 in which the movement of the inner rod 10 and the electrical insulator 30 relative to each other can be limited. The second portion 32 may be configured to receive the connecting rod 50 and/or the clamping mechanism 600.

As shown in fig. 2, the first portion 31 of the insulator 30 may define an aperture and the second portion 33 may also define an aperture. The first and second portions 31, 33 may each have an outer dimension. The outer dimensions of the first portion 31 may be larger than the outer dimensions of the second portion 33. The first and second portions 31, 33 may each have an inner dimension. The inner dimension of the first portion 31 may be larger than the inner dimension of the second portion 33. The aperture defined by the second portion 32 may be wider than the aperture defined by the first portion 31. The first and second portions 31, 33 may each include a wall that defines a respective aperture. The thickness of the walls of the first portion 31 may be substantially the same as the thickness of the walls of the second portion 32. The connecting portion 32 may have a wall surrounding the hole, which connects the hole of the first portion 31 with the hole of the second portion 32. The thickness of the wall of the second portion 32 may be greater than the thickness of the first and/or second portions 31, 32.

An electrical insulator 30 may be disposed between and may be in contact with the inner surface 27 of the outer sleeve 20 and the outer surface 17 of the inner rod 10. The electrical insulator 30 may be disposed between and in contact with the inner surface 47 of the coupling sleeve 40 and the outer surface 67 of the clamping mechanism 600. The insulator 30 can be configured to have an outer dimension that is greater than an inner dimension of at least a portion of the connecting sleeve 40, as shown in fig. 3 b. This has the advantage that the axial movement of the electrical insulator 30 is limited.

The ionization and/or ignition device 1 may further comprise: a connecting sleeve 40; the connecting rod 50 and/or the clamping mechanism 600.

The connection sleeve 40 may be connected with the root end 23 of the outer sleeve 20, the connection sleeve 40 comprising an electrically conductive material. Coupling sleeve 40 may comprise a material that is less stiff and/or temperature resistant than outer sleeve 20. When mounting the device 1, the connecting sleeve 40 may not be exposed to as high a temperature as the outer sleeve 20, since it may be arranged further away from the heat source. The conductive material of the connection sleeve may comprise a metal. The metal may comprise stainless steel. The connecting sleeve 40 may be provided as an extension of the conductive path provided by the outer sleeve 20, while having a configuration suitable for its position relative to the heat source.

The coupling sleeve 40 may include threaded portions 43, 44, which may be configured to couple with the threaded portion 24 of the outer sleeve 20. The threaded portion may comprise two portions: a first threaded portion 43 on the connecting sleeve 40, and a second threaded portion 44 provided on a separate fixing member 440, as shown in fig. 4. The fixing member 440 may provide a firm screw connection. The fixation component 440 with the threaded portion 44 may include one or more external flat portions 45, 46. The securing member 440 may take the form of an internally threaded ring structure such as a nut. An advantage of the outer flat portion may be that a clip can be provided which allows the securing means to lock the connecting sleeve 40 in place on the outer sleeve 20 and may further serve to prevent rotation or movement of the device 1 when mounted. The securing means may act as a lock nut to lock the connecting sleeve 40 in position relative to the outer sleeve 20.

The connecting rod 50 may be connected with the root end 13 of the inner rod 10. The connecting rod 50 may be provided as an extension of the conductive path provided by the inner rod 10. Thus, the connecting bar 50 may comprise an electrically conductive material. The connecting rod 50 may be configured to withstand temperatures of approximately 600 ℃ + 700 ℃. When mounting the device 1, the connecting rod 50 may not be exposed to as high a temperature as the inner rod 10, as it may be arranged further away from the heat source. Thus, the connecting rod 50 may comprise a material that is less stiff and/or temperature resistant than the inner rod 10. The conductive material of the connection bar 50 may include metal. The metal may comprise stainless steel. The connecting rod 50 may comprise a threaded connection. A threaded nut 52 may be provided to threadably connect with the connecting rod 50.

The clamping mechanism 600 may be configured to fixedly connect the connecting rod 50 and the inner rod 10 to each other. The clamping mechanism 600 may accomplish this by clamping force.

A clamping mechanism 600 is provided to fixedly connect the rod 10 to other components of the device 1. The clamping mechanism 600 may provide a connection between the rod 10 and one or more of the connecting rod 50, the electrical insulator 30, the outer sleeve 20, and the connecting sleeve 40. The clamping mechanism 600 may provide a means for fixedly connecting the inner rod 10 to the connecting rod 50. The clamping mechanism 600 may comprise an electrically conductive material and may be configured to provide an electrical connection between the inner rod 10 and the connecting rod 50.

The clamping mechanism 600 may include: a first opening 617, 627 configured to at least partially receive the inner rod 10; a second opening 614, 625 configured to at least partially receive the connecting rod 50, as best shown in fig. 2, 5 and 6.

The clamping mechanism 600 may include first and second portions 610, 620, as shown in fig. 5 and 6, respectively. The first portion 610 of the clamping mechanism 600 may be provided as an inner portion 610. The second portion 620 of the clamping mechanism 600 may be provided as an outer portion 620. As shown in fig. 2, the inner portion 610 may be configured to be at least partially received in the outer portion 620. The inner portion 610 and the outer portion 620 may be respectively configured to be threadedly coupled with the connecting rod 50.

The inner portion 610 may have one or more portions with a degree of flexibility to grip the inner rod 10. Specifically, the inner portion 610 may define a first opening 617 for receiving the rod 10, which may be configured to be deformable to grip the rod 10. The first opening 617 may be configured to be clamped via the outer portion 620. Specifically, the first opening 617 may be clamped by the inner portion 610 moving into the outer portion 620. The first opening 617 may be delimited by at least one arm which is movable in order to adjust, in particular restrict or enlarge, the size of the opening. This has the advantage of providing the inner member 610 with a suitable degree of flexibility. Two arms may be provided that are movable relative to each other in order to change the size of the first opening 617. As shown in fig. 5c, four arms 619 may be provided which may be moved towards and/or away from each other in order to change the size of the opening 617. The inner member 610 may include any suitable number of arms, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 or more arms. The advantage of using fewer arms may be easier manufacturing and simpler construction. The advantage of using more arms may be easier installation and more secure in use. One or more arms 619 may define an opening 617 at the first end 611 of the inner portion 610. Opening 617 may be configured to at least partially receive rod 10. One or more of the arms 619 may be spaced apart from one another such that a gap 618 exists between each arm 619, as shown in FIG. 5 c. This has the advantage of providing flexibility to the inner part 610 so that the size of the opening 617 can be increased or decreased. This has the advantage of having an opening around the rod 10, which can be restricted or reduced in size in order to grip the rod 10. The arm 619 may be arranged such that it extends away from the central axis 6 of the inner member 610 in a direction from the second end 613 to the first end 611 of the device. The inner portion 610 may include a wall 615 that defines an opening 614 at the second end 613 of the inner portion 610. The opening 614 may be configured to receive the connecting rod 50 and may be threaded to engage corresponding threads formed on the connecting rod 50.

As shown in fig. 5a-7, the outer portion 620 can define a first opening 627 that can be configured to receive at least a portion of the inner portion 610. The first opening 627 may be defined by a first wall 629 at the first end 621 of the outer portion 620. The outer portion 620 may define a second opening 624 configured to receive at least a portion of the connecting rod 50. The second opening 624 may be defined by a second wall 625. The first and second openings 627, 624 may be connected so as to provide an aperture through the outer portion 620. The second wall 625 may have a first flat portion 62 and a second flat portion 63. This has the advantage of providing a means for clamping the outer portion 620 during installation and in particular allowing the device to rotate relative to the connecting rod 50, thereby allowing the outer portion to be securely threaded with the connecting rod 50. It will be understood from the drawings and this description that the rod 11 can be clamped within the inner portion 610 of the clamping mechanism 600 by screwing the outer portion 620 onto the connecting rod 50 and by screwing the inner portion 610 onto the connecting rod within the outer portion 620. This will be described in more detail below.

An advantage of the clamping mechanism 600 described herein is that it is suitable for use with an inner rod 10, the shape of which is not easily changed due to the high stiffness of the material used for the rod 10. The clamping mechanism 600 described herein, in combination with any of the variations and modifications herein or shown, has the advantage of providing a connection structure suitable for use in high temperature applications where space is limited, and various limitations including limitations to modifying the shape of the inner rod 10. The clamping mechanism 600 described and illustrated herein has the advantage of being simple and structurally sound in use.

The inventors have also devised a method of manufacturing an ionization and/or ignition device 1 comprising one or more of the following steps: providing an outer sleeve 20 comprising a semi-conductive refractory material; providing an inner rod 10 comprising a semi-conductive refractory material that is harder than the outer sleeve material; providing an electrical insulator 30; inserting the inner rod 10 into the electrical insulator 30; the electrical insulator 30 and the inner rod 10 are inserted into the outer sleeve 20. The method may be applied to any embodiment of the apparatus 1 described herein.

The assembly method is best shown in fig. 7. The method comprises the following steps: inserting the inner rod 10 into the electrical insulator 30; the insertion of the electrical insulator 30 and the inner rod 10 into the outer sleeve 20 may be performed in this order.

The assembly method may further comprise one or more of the following steps: providing the connecting rod 50 and connecting the inner rod 10 with the connecting rod 50 may be performed by means of a clamping mechanism 600. A clamping mechanism 600 may also be provided; inserting the inner rod 10, the connecting rod 50 and the clamping mechanism 600 into the electrical insulator 30; inserting the electrical insulator 30 and the inner rod 10 into the outer sleeve 20; providing a fixing member 440; connecting the fixed member 440 with the outer sleeve 20; providing a connecting sleeve 40; the fixing member 440 is used to connect the connecting sleeve 40 with the outer sleeve 20 and to lock the outer sleeve in place.

The inner rod 10 can be coupled with the connecting rod 50 by means of the clamping force of the clamping mechanism 600. The connection may include connecting the clamping mechanism 600 with the end of the connecting rod 50 and connecting the clamping mechanism 600 with the heel end 13 of the inner rod 10. This may include one or more of the following: inserting the root end 13 of the inner rod 10 into the first part 610 of the clamping mechanism; inserting the end of the connecting rod 50 into the second portion 620 of the clamping mechanism 600; the first portion 610 of the clamping mechanism 600 is inserted into the second portion of the clamping mechanism 600.

Inserting the heel end 13 of the inner rod 10 into the first portion 610 of the clamping mechanism 600 may comprise inserting the heel end 13 of the inner rod 10 into the first opening 617 of the first portion 610 of the clamping mechanism 600. Inserting the end of the connecting rod 50 into the second portion 620 of the clamping mechanism 600 may include inserting the end of the connecting rod 50 into the second opening 624 of the outer portion 620 of the clamping mechanism 600. Inserting the end of the connecting rod 50 into the second portion 620 of the clamping mechanism 600 may include inserting the second end 613 of the first portion 610 into the first opening 627 of the second portion 620. This may include inserting an end of the connecting rod 50 into the second opening 614 of the first portion 610. The insertion of the end of the connecting rod 50 into the second opening 614 of the first portion 610 may be performed simultaneously with the insertion of the first portion 610 into the second portion 620. The method may further include the movement of the second portion 620 toward the first end 611 of the first portion 610. Which may cause the arms 619 of the first portion 610 to move together to grip the inner rod 10. Indeed, in the arrangement shown, the second portion 620 may be threadedly connected with the connecting rod 50. The first portion 610 may then be threaded with the rod 50 at least partially within the second portion. Relative rotation of the first and second portions about the rod 50 can draw the first portion into the second portion, and the tapered interface between the first and second portions can cause the second portion to clamp the first portion to the inner rod 10. The arrangement can then be locked in place using the nut 52.

Inserting one or more of the inner rod 10, the connecting rod 50 and the clamping mechanism 600 into the electrical insulator 30 may comprise: at least a portion of the inner rod 10 is inserted through the first portion 31 of the electrical insulator 30, and through the connecting portion 32 of the electrical insulator 30, and at least partially into the second portion 33 of the electrical insulator 30. Inserting the connecting rod 50 and the clamping mechanism 600 into the electrical insulator 30 may include inserting the connecting rod 50 and the clamping mechanism 600 into the second portion 33 of the electrical insulator 30.

Likewise, all of the inner rod 10, the connecting rod 50 and the clamping mechanism 600 may be inserted into the electrical insulator 30 from the root end 38 of the electrical insulator 30.

Inserting the electrical insulator 30 and the inner rod 10 into the outer sleeve 20 may include inserting the electrical insulator 30 and the inner rod 10 into the root end 23 of the outer sleeve 20. The insertion of the electrical insulator 30 and the inner rod 10 into the outer sleeve 20 may be such that the electrical insulator 30 is disposed adjacent to and in contact with the inner surface 27 of the outer sleeve 20.

Coupling the fixation member 440 with the outer sleeve 20 may include rotating the fixation member 440 and/or the outer sleeve 20 until the fixation member 440 is fixedly engaged with the outer sleeve 20.

Coupling the coupling sleeve 40 with the outer sleeve 20 may include rotating the coupling sleeve 40 and/or the outer sleeve 20 until the coupling sleeve 40 is threadably engaged with the outer sleeve 20.

It should be noted that any suitable variation of the methods described herein may be applied to any variation of the ignition and/or ionization apparatus herein. Many variations of the above disclosure are possible, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Several variations have been described herein, however, it should be noted that the disclosure herein is not an exclusive listing of alternatives and embodiments.

The disclosure herein relates to an ignition and/or ionization detection device. Each of the embodiments described herein may be suitable for each or any of these applications.

If the device 1 is used only as an ignition device, the inner rod 10 and the outer sleeve 20 may comprise stainless steel. If the device 1 is used only as an ignition device, the inner rod 10 may be shorter than the inner rod 10 used if the device 1 is used for ionization detection.