Remotely deployed sensor network to characterise 50 mm pipework

Supervisors:

1) Dr Stephen Monk – University of Lancaster

2) Dr David Cheneler – University of Lancaster

3) Dr Jeremy Andrew – NRS Dounreay

Due to space and dose constraints, human access is rarely achievable within pipework across the nuclear estate. However, pipe crawling robots are a current hotbed of research activity with numerous devices developed for similar applications.

This project involves the development of a modular robot/sensor network capable of traversing 50 mm pipework featuring swept bends and T-pieces. This follows on from another PhD study concerned with the development of an inchworm locomotive (in collaboration with Dounreay). Within this project, the successful candidate will develop several interchangeable modules.

·      A High Resolution Imaging module using standard machine learning techniques at the front to provide vision data enabling navigation whilst also providing information to the user concerning contaminants such as residual liquor.

·      Corrosion Sensing module utilising one of numerous options for corrosion sensing in the literature. We would anticipate using ultrasonic methods as they appear to be the most suitable within pipes of this nature. Other groups have also looked at using fibre optics to determine corrosion levels – so there are numerous options to try.

·      A spray delivery module utilising an electrically actuated system which will be developed with a syringe mechanism. This module could utilise a decontaminant such as nitric acid or a rapid drying fixative depending on exact application.

·      A bespoke radiological instrumentation module – involving bare photodiodes to monitor alpha particles, B-10 coated ones to detect neutrons and CeBr₃ detectors to detect gamma and beta via discrimination algorithms. All sensors will provide spectroscopic (energy) discrimination to enable specific nuclide identification. This is a significant challenge (low alpha in presence of high beta for example).

·      A Ramen Spectroscopy module which will be used to better determine analytes within the pipework such as liquor.

It is intended that the device be connected via umbilical containing both optical fibre communications (limited in length by factors such as friction) and power leads.

This project would suit a candidate with interests in areas such as electronics and robotics, although any weaknesses will be rectified via training courses to optimise chances of project success.

This project is offered through the SATURN CDT

(Skills And Training Underpinning a Renaissance in Nuclear Centre for Doctoral

Training): https://www.saturn-nuclear-cdt.manchester.ac.uk/

Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to contact the project supervisor ([email protected]) to discuss their interest in and suitability for the project prior to submitting an application, also register their interest with the EPSRC CDT SATURN ([email protected]) for this project.

Applicants should have a minimum of an upper second-class honours degree in electronic engineering, mechatronic engineering, computer science, or a related technical subject.

SATURN_Nuclear_CDT