METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REAL TIME VIDEO IMAGING OF THE SNOUT INTERIOR ON A HOT DIP COATING LINE

摘要

An apparatus and method for imaging the interior of a hot dip melt pot snout of a hot dip steel coating apparatus through the snout thereof. The system provided for high visual contrast and high resolution imaging, without the need for external illumination. The inventive apparatus and method image the interior of the hot dip melt pot snout at infrared wavelengths, and preferably in a wavelength range of 0.7 to 3 microns. The inventive apparatus and method provide valuable information about the condition of the hot dip melt pot snout and steel coating process which may be used to improve the quality of the produced coated steel.