Sensor for monitoring corrosion on a member in a nuclear reactor

Details Sensor for monitoring corrosion on a member in a nuclear reactor Sensor for monitoring corrosion on a member in a nuclear reactor

1990-12-10

1992-06-16

Hunt, Brooks H.

Induced nuclear reactions: processes, systems, and elements

Testing, sensing, measuring, or detecting a fission reactor...

376305, 324700, G21C 1700

Patent

active

051223309

ABSTRACT:
An apparatus and method for monitoring corrosion to members within the core of a nuclear reactor, particularly fuel rod cladding. A sensor means is submerged inside the core of a nuclear reactor near the member of fuel rods. The sensor means is comprised of a generally cylindrical section having an outer surface that is subject to corrosion and radiation, and has a cross-sectional area A.sub.1. The sensor means additionally has a reference section subjected to radiation but not to corrosion, and having a cross-sectional area A.sub.2. At least one pair of first probes, separated by a length L.sub.1, is placed in electrical contact with the cylindrical section. At least one pair of second probes separated by a length L.sub.2, is placed in electrical contact with the reference section. A current is passed throughout the sensor means to produce a potential gradient in the cylindrical section and reference section. The change in potential in the reference section, and the cylindrical section is measured and used to calculate the subsequent cross-sectional area in the cylindrical section between the first probes. Preferably, the cylindrical section and reference section are made from the same material as the member.

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