Revolutionizing Nuclear Safety: The Power of Laser Survey Scanning Technology

Nuclear power plants present some of the most hazardous work environments, with high-radiation areas scattered throughout facilities. During outage and maintenance operations, ensuring the safety of workers is paramount. That’s where laser survey scanning technology comes into play—offering solutions to enhance safety and efficiency. By leveraging 3D dimensional laser survey scanning, nuclear facilities can significantly reduce the risks to personnel while improving overall operations. 

Digital Dimensional Control (DDC): Ensuring Precision from Fabrication to Installation

DDC is a vital aspect of nuclear plant maintenance, ensuring all components fit precisely and are installed correctly. Laser survey scanning technology plays a crucial role in identifying potential issues before they reach the site.

 

1.    At the Fabrication Shop:

Laser survey scanning starts even before components reach the nuclear site. At the fabrication shop, laser technicians scan critical equipment, modules, or pipe fabrications to check for any compliance issues. Laser survey scanning is accurate to within +1/16 inch, making it an invaluable tool for identifying these changes and mitigating risks. The scanned data is then overlaid with the design drawings or 3D models to identify discrepancies early.

Key Benefits:

• Early Issue Detection: Deviations from the design are highlighted, allowing the team to make informed decisions on corrective actions before the fabrication is shipped.

• Cost Savings: By identifying errors at this stage, the costs associated with on-site rework can be moved back to the fabricator, saving time and money.

• 3D Model Integration: Scanned equipment can be seamlessly integrated into the 3D model to ensure all connection points are accurate.

• Simulator App: The IMS Simulation App can demonstrate how new components will be installed and even help visualize and remove potential obstructions before installation begins.

2.    At the Site:

Laser scanning continues at the plant site, where existing conditions are scanned for retrofit projects or turnarounds. For new construction, scanning is used to check foundations and anchor bolt locations, ensuring that everything is set up accurately to prevent unplanned delays during installation.

Corrosion Point Identification: Protecting Against Costly Failures

Corrosion is one of the most dangerous threats to nuclear facilities. Over time, pipes and systems can experience wear that compromises their integrity, leading to potential catastrophic failures. Laser scanning technology can proactively identify corrosion risks, especially in critical piping systems.

Ensuring Proper Slope and No-Pocket Conditions:

Some piping systems require precise slope conditions for drainage or must meet “no pocket” requirements to prevent corrosive gas or liquids from collecting. As facilities operate over time, high temperatures and settling foundations can shift these conditions, potentially creating pockets where corrosive substances can accumulate, leading to costly failures.

Key Benefits:

• Corrosion Measurement Locations (CMLs): The laser scan data can pinpoint potential problem areas, allowing maintenance teams to monitor and track these locations over time.

• Replacement Support: If a section of pipe needs replacing, the 3D laser scan can be sent directly to the fabricator, ensuring a perfect fit for the replacement.

 

The Laser Scanning Advantage: A Safer, More Efficient Future

The integration of 3D dimensional laser scanning technology into nuclear facility operations provides a powerful tool for improving safety, reducing costs, and optimizing maintenance. With its ability to detect potential issues early in the process—both in fabrication and on-site—laser scanning ensures that workers are kept out of high-risk environments and that every installation is executed with precision. By embracing this cutting-edge technology, nuclear plants can enhance operational efficiency while mitigating the risks that come with corrosion and inaccurate installations.

It’s time to leverage the power of laser scanning for a safer, more reliable nuclear industry.