ENGIE Laborelec - Robotized solutions for nuclear power plants

Video
ROBOTIZED SOLUTIONS FOR NUCLEAR ENVIRONMENTS

Nuclear context

Operating a nuclear power plant, in practice, often means that interventions need to be automated or robotized. Pipework, for instance, may need repair where direct human involvement is impossible due to danger from contamination or irradiation. But using robot machinery instead requires careful preparation.

• First you have to identify the best solution and adapt it to the specific situation.
• Then it has to be tested and qualified.
• And then human operators have to be trained in how to direct the robot.

ENGIE Laborelec identification

ENGIE Laborelec is the partner of choice for all this.
With the company’s long experience in nuclear applications and extensive expertise in non-destructive testing and materials technology, our experts can design the right solution for every situation.

Robot intro

Let’s look at a practical example where components needed to be replaced in the primary circuit.
Laborelec designed, tested, and qualified a robotized solution: a robot crawler specially adapted to operate inside piping elbows carries a range of different modules, each for a particular operation.

Example 1
With the grinding module, rotating grindstones take care of excess weld material, oxidation in areas subject to high temperatures, and any other superficial flaws.

Example 2
Here, the cleaning module uses solvents or suction to remove staining and residues such as grinding dust.

Example 3
To detect surface discontinuity, flaws, and minute cracks, the liquid penetrant test module sprays a dye into the pipework.

Example 4
This module uses radiography to identify and examine imperfections in the metal.

Example 5
The profilometry module uses laser scanning to analyse weld profiles and material losses from grinding operations.

Qualification and training

In this example, all the robotized modules were rigorously tested and qualified for their ability to carry out work protocols defined by the applicable nuclear requirements.
The customer’s staff were then fully trained in how to operate the robot machinery.

CTA

At ENGIE Laborelec we can find the best solutions for your situation too.
Want to know more?
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