An EPSRC-funded project, led by researchers at Strathclyde University, is attempting to develop the technologies and expertise needed to extend the life of nuclear power plants. The Strathclyde project, which also includes partners Babcock International Group, BAM Nuttall, Bruce Power, EDF-Energy, Kinectrics, the Weir Group, Imperial College, the Alan Turing Institute and the universities of Surrey and Cranfield, is aiming to reduce the cost of managing and maintaining existing nuclear plants, and increase their generating capacity, by improving their health. This should help to reduce the cost of nuclear energy for consumers. Researchers will investigate advances such as autonomous non-destructive evaluation and inspection technologies. In particular, they aim to improve the ultrasonic inspection technologies used to monitor the health of nuclear plants, said McArthur.
The Engineer 19th Sept 2017 read more »