Abstract: Methods for assessing cable insulation are provided that can include engaging a first tine gap interdigital capacitor assembly with the exterior of the cable jacket to determine a first capacitance and dissipation factor value of the insulation using the first tine gap interdigital capacitor assembly; engaging a second tine gap interdigital capacitor assembly with the exterior of the cable jacket to determine a second capacitance and dissipation factor value of the insulation using the second tine gap interdigital capacitor assembly. Systems for assessing cable insulation are also provided. The systems can include a cable jacket encompassing cable insulation and conductive material; at least two tine gap interdigital capacitor assemblies engaged with the cable jacket; and processing circuitry operatively engaged with the capacitor assemblies.

Abstract: Heat exchanger assemblies are provided that can include: a heat exchanger housing; at least one primary conduit operably coupled to the heat exchanger housing and configured to convey a primary heat exchange fluid; at least one secondary conduit operably coupled to the heat exchanger housing and configured to convey a secondary heat exchange fluid; at least one thermal interface between the primary and secondary fluids; and at least one sensor operably engaged with the thermal interface. Heat exchanger assemblies including molten salt, liquid metal, or water/steam as part of the heat exchange fluids of the heat exchanger assembly are provided. The heat exchanger assemblies can include: at least one thermal interface between primary and secondary heat exchange fluids of the heat exchanger assembly; and a sensor operably engaged with the at least one interface. The sensor must be installed in conjunction with the heat exchanger fabrication process as an embedded sensor.

Abstract: An improved process for performing ultrasonic sensing and inspections wherein a cold-spray technique is used to kinetically bond powdered material to a substrate and then an EMAT sensor is magnetically attached to the coating. In use the ultrasound will transfer from the magnetostrictive layer into the substrate more effectively than any glued coating without concerns for long term degradation.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a system and method of inspecting a weld. The weld to be inspected is subjected to a transient sonic excitation while the weld area is monitored using a remote infrared camera. The sonic excitation induces mechanical vibration, which causes heat generation at any cracks or other anomalies in the weld. The infrared camera detects any temperature differentials in the weld, indicating the presence of an anomaly. The system and method is particularly useful for welds in environments that are unsafe for extended human presence or that are crowded or otherwise inaccessible, such as with piping or other structural components.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a system and method of inspecting a weld. The weld to be inspected is subjected to a transient sonic excitation while the weld area is monitored using a remote infrared camera. The sonic excitation induces mechanical vibration, which causes heat generation at any cracks or other anomalies in the weld. The infrared camera detects any temperature differentials in the weld, indicating the presence of an anomaly. The system and method is particularly useful for welds in environments that are unsafe for extended human presence or that are crowded or otherwise inaccessible, such as with piping or other structural components.

Abstract: The motion of a DISC for a check valve is tested and sensed by placing coil sensors on the check valve. The coils produce a magnetic field within the valve near the DISC such that the DISC moves through the magnetic field. The coils are connected to a sensing circuit having an LED display. The sensing circuit is also connected with a tape recorder for taping a signal output by the sensing circuit. The recorded signal by the tape recorder can be subjected to further analysis. The LED display of the sensing circuit can also be used to create a stand-alone indicator of valve actuation. An oscillator of the sensing circuit produces a sinusoidal excitation wave which is amplified and transmitted to the coils for producing the magnetic fields. The coils have approximately the same resistance and inductance such that they form a balanced bridge circuit. If the two coils are perfectly balanced, the output from the bridge circuit is zero.

Abstract: A tool positioning assembly for use inside a steam generator. A loading tool assembly removably attachable to a support base is used to insert the support base into the steam generator through a manway opening. The support base is removably attached to the steam generator at the manway. A retractable foot assembly pivotally attached to the support base stabilizes the support base inside the steam generator. A track assembly, removably attachable to the support base after removal of the loading tool assembly, receives an arm. A driven cogwheel on the waist of the manipulator engages a rack on the track assembly and support base for selectively driving and positioning the arm thereon. A tool coupling mounted on the arm is adapted to receive remotely controlled tools. The four degree-of-freedom movement of the arm provides access to all tubes in the tubesheet and allows mounting of tools outside the steam generator.

Abstract: A fuel channel flatness measuring system. A stationary measuring unit which allows measuring of two sides of fuel channels without detaching the fuel channel from the crane send warp and axial position electronic signals to conditioning electronics which amplify and digitize the signals for computer use. A computer analysis unit receives the signals and processes and corrolates them to generate a contour profile of the entire length of the measured fuel channel. Fixed and spring loaded rollers mounted on the measuring unit and in rolling contact with the fuel channel guide the fuel channel and allow the movement caused by warp which results in the generated signals.

Abstract: An instrumented hammer that gives the operator a measurement of the impact energy of each hammer blow. A head or main body portion slidably receives an inertia rod spring mounted in a longitudinal bore therein. Upon striking a surface, momentum causes movement of the rod forward against the spring pressure. A slot on the rod moves through an optical switch which emits a signal relative to the movement of the slot therethrough. A display assembly receives the signal and calculates the impact energy of the hammer blow.