|
Qualification of the Improved Rotating
Probe Process for Steam Generator tubes inspection
| Auteur |
 |
|
|
Denis CASTON -CEGELEC NDT
Bourg de Péage -France |
In 1997, EDF invited tenders for supplying Eddy Current (EC)
probes in order to improve the inspection of the roll transition
zone of Steam Generator (SG) tubes. Several manufacturers
met EDF’s requirements, and after full assessment, EDF
chose one between several EC rotating probe prototypes.
After consultation, EDF chose CEGELEC NDT’s services
from French SG NDT subcontractors, to inspect a limited number
of tubes with this prototype, on site FESSENHEIM 2 and BUGEY
2, in 2000.
Improved Rotating Probe process requirements were provided
by EDF with the SG contract specifications. They dictate technique
performances level and acquisition rate of this new process
using two techniques at the same time :
- STL classic technique, applied
for detection and sizing of axial cracks,
- STT technique, applied for detection
and sizing of circumferential cracks and wear.
It has to be used, instead of classic STL process, without
increasing inspection duration and SG occupancy.
In competition for the qualification, CEGELEC NDT decided
to design a new probe, including the two EC sensors and meeting
EDF’s requirements.
Two another new equipment, designed in CEGELEC NDT laboratories,
have been integrated into Improved Rotating Probe Process
:
- « STL Lift », new rotating
probe push-puller for roll transition zone inspection,
- « ANASTL », on-line
STL and STT data quality check, on-line data processing
and analysis software.
This paper presents the different phases of the qualification
conducted according to RSE-M rules, and the first field experiences
in August 2001.
|
