Diode laser sensors for aeroengines - Lessons learned and future promises

Abstract

Near-IR diode laser sensors are being applied to practical aeroengine tests in both ground and flight applications. Sensors for inlet air mass flux, combustor temperature and product exhaust mass flux, and trace pollutant emissions are described and the current state of testing presented. Practical issues associated with long-term stability, optical access, and effects of flow distortions and non-uniform flow properties are discussed in detail.