Multi-Electrode Electromagnetic Flowmeter for Reactor Safety

75243-This project will develop a non-intrusive two-phase flow sensor as part of an intelligent diagnostics system to increase the safety of existing and future nuclear power plants. The electromagnetic flow sensor will meet the requirement of two-phase flow measurements and provide critical hydrodynamic parameters to the diagnostic system. To achieve this objective, an existing single phase flow instrument will be upgraded and intelligent diagnostics will be further developed. Phase I will: (1) design and develop a multi-electrode electromagnetic flow sensor, and (2) experimentally evaluate the sensor under adiabatic two-phase flow conditions. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The multi-electrode electromagnetic flow sensor would have a significant impact on the diagnosis of transient phenomena or accidents in nuclear reactors, improving the confidence level of new passively safe reactors. In addition, the sensor should find use wherever two-phase flow measurements are routinely required for process monitoring and operational control, such as in the petroleum, chemical, food, pharmaceutical, power, and water and wastewater industries.