QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE SNF STORAGE CASK BY MEANS OF ULTRASONIC TESTING

摘要

Nowadays nuclear energy is one of the most promising ways to produce energy. However, all components of nuclear fuel cycle contain hazardous materials. That is why spent nuclear fuel (SNF) requires advanced safety measures. To perform long-term storage an effective technique of quality control of the SNF storage cask and especially its weld seams is required. One of the most promising technologies are acoustic methods of control. Within the scope of the study, ultrasonic testing (UT) was chosen as an effective method of analysis. Due to the fact, that UT is the relative method of measurement it is necessary to establish accurate correlation between indications of control and real dimensions of a flaw. In order to achieve certain results calibration block shall contain relevant reflectors in accordance with all types of possible defects. Therefore, the database containing SNF cask defects classification was created as a result of the present study. The database consists of basic parameters of possible flaws such as their type, category, permissible dimensions. The created database improves quality assessment of the SNF storage casks. It enables quantitative estimation by means of ultrasonic testing and includes complete information about defects that can occur in the cask.