Measurement Science and Systems Engineering Division Communication Requirements and Concept of Operation for Sensor Networks.

摘要

Today's nuclear power plant (NPP) instrumentation uses current loops and voltage-based communications sometimes compromised by radio frequency interference (RFI), also called electromagnetic interference (EMI). Copper-based communications technology also relies on insulation that may degrade after decades of exposure to NPP environments and can be flammable. Wireless technologies offer the potential for greater expansion in instrumentation in a plant that could augment human performance, provide additional data on plant equipment and component status, and facilitate online assessment of the material condition of plants. Wireless communications capabilities may substantially reduce the cabling cost, but a number of technology and security issues must be resolved. One of the greatest capital cost contribution from I&C systems arises from cable installation. The trend toward more effective, efficient operation and maintenance will require many additional sensors beyond the number of nuclear and process sensors at a conventional NPP. These additional sensors are needed to enable monitoring of real-time process variables, structural components, movable equipment, portable devices, and warehouse/inventory areas, but will exacerbate the cabling complexity and cost. Wireless technologies offer the potential for greater expansion in instrumentation in a plant that could augment human performance, provide additional data on plant equipment and component status, and facilitate online assessment of the material condition of plants.