Spray mist detection in process plants

A method for detecting spray mist in a container via a high-frequency measuring device, the method comprising:

• transmitting a high-frequency signal into the container;
• receiving a reception signal after the transmitted high-frequency signal is reflected in the container;
• determining a defined characteristic variable on the basis of the reception signal;
• and
• detecting the spray mist when the determined characteristic variable corresponds to a predefined reference value.

A high-frequency measuring device for detecting a spray mist in a container, the high-frequency measuring device comprising:

• a signal generation unit which is designed to generate a high-frequency signal to be transmitted;
• an antenna arrangement via which the high-frequency signal can be transmitted towards the spray mist, and via which a reception signal can be received;
• and
• an evaluation unit which is designed:
• to use the reception signal to determine a characteristic variable;
• and
• to detect the spray mist when the determined characteristic variable corresponds to a predefined reference value.

A measuring system for checking a functionality of a spray head that is arranged in a container and that is designed to spray a spray mist inside the container with a defined spray pattern, the measuring system comprising:

• a high-frequency measuring device, including:
• a signal generation unit which is designed to generate a high-frequency signal to be transmitted, including:
• an antenna arrangement via which the high-frequency signal can be transmitted towards the spray mist, and via which a reception signal can be received;
• and
• an evaluation unit which is designed:
• to use the reception signal to determine a characteristic variable;
• and
• to detect the spray mist when the determined characteristic variable corresponds to a predefined reference value,
• wherein the antenna arrangement is oriented in a direction of the spray pattern;
• and
• a higher-level unit, which is designed:
• to control or detect the activation and deactivation of the spray head;
• to query the detection of spray mist by the high-frequency measuring device;
• and
• to classify the spray head as functional if it is switched on and the high-frequency measuring device detects spray mist.