Pulsed Eddy Current for Rapid Scanning of Insulated Steel in CANDU® Reactors

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This project will focus on development of pulsed eddy current (PEC) inspection technology and development of analysis tools for variable multi-parameter conditions for both PEC and eddy current (EC) inspection data. Development will target rapid inspection of insulated steel pipe that makes up a large portion of balance of plant piping within CANDU® nuclear reactors and thick walled steel structures, including the calandria and shield tank assembly (CSTA), high pressure feed water heat exchanger and storage tanks. Pulsed eddy current (PEC) has demonstrated a capability to perform inspection of conducting ferromagnetic materials at large lift-offs. Development of PEC technology will be toward a rapid inspection capability for assessment of through-thickness general corrosion in steel pipe wall, without costly removal and replacement of insulation. This project will also investigate multi-parameter eddy current signal analysis, accounting for effects of permeability variations and resistivity on wall thickness assessment in PEC applications and for multi-variable parameters in EC steam generator (SG) inspection. Inspection and monitoring of pipe condition through insulation can be integrated with preventive maintenance programs, thereby enhancing pipe system management processes. Compensation for multi-parameter variations in PEC and EC signal analysis will enhance detection and flaw sizing capability, improving inspection reliability.