Development of Poolside Inspection Techniques at INER

ABSTRACT In the light of its importance and the growing local demands, INER has started working on the development of the poolside inspection techniques, mainly intending for examining the irradiated fuel rods, since 1987. A variety of inspection systems have been designed and erected. They can be categorized as the following: (1) Ultrasonic leak testing system, (2) Eddy current defect testing system, (3) Underwater visual inspection system and (4) Inspection tools. All of the apparatuses were laboratory-tested and have been put into site services at Taipower's nuclear power plants. Some inspection results for both BWR- and PWR- type fuel have been obtained. Extensive inspection experiences has been built up. In this report, it is intended to give a brief account of what INER has been working on the irradiated fuel poolside inspection. The inspection principles, inspection systems and some of inspection results for fuel rods are to be summarized.