Ageing management of research reactors instrumentation using neutron radiography applications

This paper introduces the applications of neutron radiography and tomography to improve maintenance and aging management programs in research reactors. Egypt second research reactor (ETRR-2) has an advanced neutron radiography/tomography facility and it is used to shoot and test different objects such as concerning antiquities, industry and applied research in various fields. Neutron radiography/tomography (NR/T) techniques offer ideal opportunities for nondestructive testing (NDT) evaluations. It has been possible to benefit from the applications and use of radiography to help improve maintenance of components and systems as well as aging management programs for the ETRR-2. This work proposes successful applications of NR/T to inspect and test different safety and safety related components such solenoid valves and the shielding tube of the defective fuel instrument to predict both damage and edging of these systems. Also, the NR technique monitored successfully the behavior efficiency of an air filtering unit (AFU) for dust removal from ventilation system in the research reactors. Additionally, we measured the capability of protective maintenance procedures to remove impurities or blockage from a stainless steel filter (SSF) used in water treatment system. NR/T techniques are successfully applied and enhanced both maintenance and ageing management programs of ETRR-2 instrumentation, equipment and systems. (C) 2021 THE AUTHORS. Published by Elsevier BV on behalf of Faculty of Engineering, Alexandria University.

Automated summary

This paper introduces the applications of neutron radiography and tomography in research reactors to improve maintenance and aging management programs. The techniques successfully inspect and test safety-related components, predict damage and aging of systems, as well as monitor equipment efficiency and maintenance procedures.