Recent events in the nuclear industry have shown the weaknesses in the control of the critical systems that ensure the safety of the nuclear plant. The extreme and accidental conditions, such as high temperatures and high levels of radiation sabotage the security of nuclear power plants, leading to major disasters. The main issue for the nuclear industry is to enhance the security of existing nuclear power plants and improve the design of the future ones. In the case of emergency or accidental conditions in nuclear reactors the following thermodynamic parameters need to be known in order to facilitate appropriate actions: temperature, pressure, water level, radiation level. The accuracy of the obtained information directly influences the decisions made by the operators. The monitoring instruments used inside the nuclear fuel pools need to better withstand severe conditions that occur during malfunctions and accidents, namely high temperatures and high levels of radiation. The strict safety regulations have pushed the fiber optic market to develop sensors based on optical fibers. Optical fiber sensors, like FBG sensors and DTS systems, have attracted interest from the nuclear plant industry for their ability to withstand harsh conditions.
Optical fiber properties depend on the temperature, strain, pressure, etc., therefore the fiber itself can be used as a sensitive element of the sensor. FBG sensors have been tested in various harsh environments and have shown consistent resistance to various harsh conditions. The immunity of FBG sensors to high temperatures, high levels of radiation, electromagnetic influence makes them an ideal monitoring solution for nuclear power plants. FBG sensors are easily mounted on any surface, are cost-effective, and require low maintenance.
There are several types of FBG sensor types that are designed to measure specific parameters. FBG temperature sensors provide long-range, long-term deployments, have a long reliability period, and have a compact size. FBG temperature sensors also provide the fastest response rate, which is especially important for emergencies and accidents.
Fiber Bragg grating (FBG) pressure sensors perform spectral analysis of the reflected wavelength to measure different parameters. Like all fiber optic sensors, FBG pressure sensors are compact and portable. FBG pressure sensors can measure high-speed events, which is essential for the localization of malfunctions inside the nuclear fuel pots.
The ability to withstand harsh conditions is the most attractive quality of FBG sensors. The use of sensors based on fiber optic technology has the potential to significantly increase the security of nuclear power plants.
Optromix is a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor, vendor. We create advanced fiber optic technologies and our client’s satisfaction is our top priority. We deliver cutting-edge hi-tech products, yet we offer competitive pricing and rapid delivery time. If you want to purchase FBG temperature sensors, FBG pressure sensors, please contact us at info@optromix.com