Leaks in steam generator tubes can cause forced outages in nuclear power plants, resulting in significant consequences for electricity production and the potential for environmental release.
Visual leak detection detects obvious dripping leaks, but not small or transient leaks, such as those that only appear at operating temperature and pressure. To address these difficult-to-detect steam generator tube leaks, Kinectrics has developed a unique, highly-sensitive technique based on dew point measurement.
By scanning the primary side of the tubesheet with a probe mounted on a robotic arm, Kinectrics' DewPoint leak detection technology utilizes moisture detection from leaking tubes. This dew point measurement method scans the tubesheet in 48 hours and localizes the leaking tube(s), which in turn facilitates the affected unit’s rapid return to service.
Kinectrics DewPoint leak detection technology has been successfully deployed on multiple occasions, with 100% success in the location of small leaks.
