Searching for foreign objects

Through rapid, non-destructive underwater visual inspections, we can support you in reducing maintenance and operational shutdowns. Entire vessel inspection (when core plate removed) can be completed in 40 minutes from a height of 37 feet (11.27 meters)

Utilizing measurable, repeatable, millimetric 3D data sets, we deliver plant operational evaluations and in-depth engineering support analysis. This can be reviewed, measured and accessed (with password protection) in near real-time.

Fuel assembly gap measurements

Fuel assemblies and fuel assembly inserts and components are required to be within tight tolerances in height, spacing and distortion (bow/twist).

Failure to properly identify these anomalies and errors can lead to fuel damage, core redesigns and significant outage delays. Many of these costly overages can be avoided by using LiDAR and 3D millimetric point clouds.

Non-destructive inspections

Non-destructive underwater inspections and examinations (NDIs, NDEs) are a critical part of nuclear power utility maintenance and operational practices. Regular inspections and stringent adherence to guidelines can significantly reduce or even eliminate failures and potential shutdowns.

A LiDAR-generated 3D digital survey can mitigate the costly risks associated with 5,7 and 10-year inspections by capturing, quantifying and identifying potential hazards and component deterioration. Millimetric 3D data sets are generated that can be exported in any standard format, enabling the careful analysis of equipment, components and systems.

Metrologies, vibration analysis and monitoring

The large components, miles of piping, and material degradation are all variables – and the structural integrity of these components requires baseline measurements and monitoring.

LiDAR enables accurate, high-resolution 3D scans of underwater equipment, systems and assets. Each scan gathers thousands of measurements that are then converted into data points, which are “stitched” together. 3D at Depth’s data visualization tools then allow engineers and project managers to evaluate, measure and develop preventive solutions.

Engineering measurements and fabrication support

Plant operators often need to change out large components and this can require bespoke fabrications. In addition, irregularities between large and small components can add to the complexity of repairs.

The data generated through our LiDAR surveys can be used to create an exact 3D digital twin, which can then be used to design, build, fabricate and install nuclear components and equipment. Each survey provides enhanced information to ensure millimetric accuracy. We can also easily incorporate the surrounding environment or for in-situ placement.

License renewal inspections

The Materials Reliability Program’s (MRP’s) Reactor Internals Focus Group (RI-FG) has prepared inspection and evaluation guidelines for managing the effects of aging degradation in PWR internals. The guidelines, issued under the NEI 03-08 Materials Initiative, include developing an Aging Management Program (AMP) and inspection plan for PWR/BWR internals.

As an additional “tool” in the toolkit, LiDAR can be used across license renewal survey data requirements to help in-house and external consultants with their MRP 227-A evaluation and analysis. This includes:

• Structural integrity and degradation surveys
• Generic aging management surveys for BWR reactor coolant systems
• Time limited aging analysis
• ASME XI in-service inspections

Balance of plant water systems

Both systems boil water to make steam, which must be cooled after it runs through a turbine to produce electricity.

Rather than drain underwater structures (costly and labor intensive) or put humans at risk, 3D at Depth’s LiDAR technology enables remote visual inspections with comprehensive 3D data collection. This can be used to accurately diagnose a wide range of operational risks:

• Pipe discontinuities, such as cracks and breaks
• Debris that may cause failure to your system
• Cracks in the structure
• Components and equipment movement due to pump action
• External water intake systems, which can become clogged with debris, biofouled or damaged due to climate conditions
• Water intake, discharge and circulatory water systems and pumps
• External environmental hydrographic surveys
• Pipe inspection

Training and simulation models

Employees can maintain and improve high standards of safety, reliability and availability on the plant premises – reducing travel costs, lowering risk, and satisfying credential requirements. Access to high-risk environments is minimized through robust 3D data models that can be imported and manipulated for real-world modulations and simulation exercises.