Development of a Versatile Ultrasonic Internal Pipe/Vessel Component Monitor for In-service Inspection of Nuclear Reactor Components

Internal piping and vessel components in nuclear reactors often suffer from premature failure due to degradation from vibration and cavitation which are caused from turbulent flow inherent to these systems. The problem being addressed herein is part of the Department of Energy’s stated mission “to ensure security and prosperity.” The technology to be developed through this proposal is based upon a technique where ultrasonic sensors will be used to locate and monitor vibration of internal pipe and vessel components, such as valves and jet pump components. Additionally, the technology will be used to monitor harmful cavitation in the fluid flowing around the internal components. In this research, high temperature and radiation resistant ultrasonic probes will be tested to prove that they are viable options for long term exposure to radioactive and high temperature environments. Upon completion, a monitoring system will be developed that will provide real- time, in-service monitoring of nuclear power plant components. This will enable power companies to reduce system downtime for mandatory scheduled maintenance and reduce risk of catastrophic failure of plant components. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: The development and certification of high temperature and radiation resistant ultrasonic probes will find application in a large span of industries. These industries range from: aerospace applications where satellites, spacecraft, and aircraft can be subjected to radiation and extreme temperatures, defense for monitoring of nuclear powered vessels, high temperature applications in the power industry, and high temperature application in the automotive industry. In principle, high temperature ultrasonic structural health monitoring is possible, however, the practical aspects such that implementation of such probes in high temperature applications for in-service monitoring need to be addressed. This is one of the primary aspects of this work. Furthermore, the technology developed for monitoring of internal component vibration and cavitation development can find applications in non-nuclear power plant facilities, remote pipe line monitoring, off shore platform component monitoring, and monitoring of aircraft and marine components.