Imaging tool applications for nuclear power plants

Abstract

All nuclear power utilities are interested in saving costs, reducing radiation exposure, making task supervision easier, and enhancing worker effectiveness. Recent EPRI research indicates that imaging tools, ranging from low cost CCTV to videodisc systems and photogrammetry, can be effective means for achieving these benefits. Some of the techniques, such as CCTV and videodisc systems, are already being used extensively and offer proven results. Others are scarcely being used despite their potential. Current programs to update existing plants and design new ones make it important to recognize that images -whether films, transparencies, video, line drawings, computer graphics, or others -play an essential role in plant operations and maintenance. This paper provides examples of potential cost-saving benefits and limitations of some principal techniques.