Two common NDT methods used on nuclear power plant components include ultrasonic testing and radiographic testing.

Introduction





Nuclear power plant components that must be regularly checked include concrete, nozzles, valves, welds, and piping. Two common NDT testing methods used on nuclear power plant components include According to a 2014 study, nuclear power plants accounted for 11% of the world’s electricity production. In a world increasingly concerned about pollution and climate change, the nuclear industry is a safe and reliable energy option. Since nuclear power plants deal with highly radioactive materials, this industry must perform extensive safety measures to ensure that there is no harm to workers, citizens, and the environment.Nuclear power plant components that must be regularly checked include concrete, nozzles, valves, welds, and piping. Two common NDT testing methods used on nuclear power plant components include ultrasonic testing and radiographic testing

Ultrasonic Testing in Nuclear Power Plants





Ultrasonic testing is a nondestructive testing method that uses high frequency sound waves to reveal subsurface flaws. Ultrasonic sound waves are emitted from a transducer into an object and the returning waves are interpreted by the device to reveal an image. The ultrasonic waves are produced by applying electricity to a thin disk made of crystal in the transducer. Sound absorbing material prevents any of the ultrasonic waves from returning to the device and distorting the results.

Ultrasonic Testing is used to detect the presence of radioactive coolant from leaking fuel rods. This ultrasonic detection system is vital in preventing a failure in the plant site. Ultrasonic Testing can also be used to inspect welds, carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, carbon graphite, ceramics and even carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

Ultrasonic Testing is used to detect the presence of radioactive coolant from leaking fuel rods. This ultrasonic detection system is vital in preventing a failure in the plant site. Ultrasonic Testing can also be used to inspect welds, carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, carbon graphite, ceramics and even carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

Radiographic Testing in Nuclear Power Plants



Industrial radiography is a transportable nondestructive testing method for detecting flaws and analyzing the structure of a component. A radiographic camera releases radiation from a radioactive source material, and a detector picks up an image captured by the radiation, which can then be analyzed by trained personnel in order to determine the quality and safety of the weld.

Radiographic testing can be used to inspect welds within pipelines, pressurized vessels, and important structural components. Radiographic testing is useful in detecting fuel rod leakage, because radiography can detect moisture-based damage. Neutron radiography is the preferred method of radiographic testing within the nuclear power plant industry.

Radiographic testing is also useful in providing important information on the depth, position, dimensions, and thickness of steel parts.

Radiographic testing is also useful in providing important information on the depth, position, dimensions, and thickness of steel parts.

Conclusion

Nondestructive testing ensures that nuclear plant operation continues. NDT also keeps nuclear plants compliant with the standards set by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Most importantly, NDT keeps employees, the environment, and the public safe from harmful radioactivity.



Citations

NDT methods in nuclear power plants. (2016, June 17). Retrieved from https://blog.applus.com/ndt-methods-in-nuclear-power-plants/.

Cuffari, B. (2017, August 21). Nondestructive Testing Equipment for Nuclear Safety. Retrieved from https://www.azom.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=14378

