DEVELOPMENT OF A COMPACT DIGITAL CERENKOV VIEWING DEVICE WITH IMPROVED SENSITIVITY FOR THE VERIFICATION OF LONG-COOLED LIGHT WATER REACTOR SPENT FUEL

Year
2006
Author(s)
B. Lindberg - LENS-TECH AB
M. Larsson - Swedish Nuclear Power Inspectorate
K. Axell - Swedish Nuclear Power Inspectorate
A.F. Gerwing - Channel Systems Inc.
D.A. Parcey - Channel Systems Inc.
R. Kosierb - Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission
L. Hildingsson - Swedish Nuclear Power Inspectorate
Dennis Chen - Channel Systems Inc.
Abstract
An improved Digital Cerenkov Viewing Device (DCVD) for use in imaging spent nuclear fuel stored in water ponds has been constructed and tested in Mexico, Switzerland and Sweden. The charge-coupled device detector is back illuminated and lumogen coated with on-chip multiplication of the signal. Laboratory tests measured an ultraviolet light quantum efficiency of 28 percent, which is three times higher than the previous generation DCVD. To make the DCVD more compact and rugged, the camera head, computer, and railing bracket were combined into a single unit. Experience with the improved DCVD in the field was very positive. Experimental results are given for a GE12 fuel assembly with partial-length fuel rods and a GE6 assembly with low-burnup, long-cooled natural uranium fuel.