Intelligent Condition Monitoring for Civil Nuclear Structures

Building on its successful feasibility study, where a potential 25% time-saving for machine fault diagnosis was demonstrated, the consortium aims to achieve Intelligent Condition Monitoring (ICM) for the Nuclear Power Industry. This project will enable Beran and EDF Energy to extend health monitoring to a wider range of machinery, structures and new civil nuclear plants.
The technology adopted is derived from a physical understanding of non-linearities arising from degradation of components. Utilising expertise in prognostic algorithms from the University of Bristol, methods already used in the aerospace and medical sector will be adapted and developed for use within nuclear power plant systems. Industry benefits include increased accuracy, reliability and safety, greater availability of plant through predictive maintenance, improved operator intelligence, resulting in enhanced plant performance and reduced operating costs.