Specifications for Solution Monitoring Systems - Installation, User Requirements and Technical Specifications

A safeguards approach for solution monitoring systems in the key processing areas, namely Head End, Main Process, Waste Handling, Conversion and Fabrication Areas is described. The approach is based on our past and current experience in the application of developed unattended solution monitoring equipment already utilized by IAEA, Euratom Safeguards Directorate and in Japan. Ideally a solution monitoring system should be developed and installed prior to commissioning a facility but even if fitted retrospectively as most often is the case, should meet the criteria for the need of continuous collection, storage and evaluation of data from in-process vessels relating to pressure and temperatures. The system should include sets of individual pressure transducers and temperature converters connected directly or indirectly to the operator’s sensor systems. Those instruments will be located in a tamper proof indicating environment. The system will provide for tamper indicating transfer, including authentication, of the collected data to the local inspector’s cabinet and to the central cabinet in the inspector’s office for further evaluation. The application of such systems is intended to be capable of verifying the accountancy system in the unattended mode; to maintain continuity of knowledge on the declared nuclear material flow and on the verified design of the facility; to provide additional assurance on the declared operation of the facility or detecting possible undeclared operations; to provide validation of other safeguards systems. For unattended verification activities the system monitors continuously the signals of temperatures and pressures coming from the level, density and reference dip-tubes of the selected vessels. Data is stored at regular time intervals and also in the event of pressure variations. The technical specifications of hardware and software will be given together with a description of the instrument, set-up. data handling and evaluation. Incorporating solution monitoring in this manner has the advantages which requires a reduced inspection effort, improved NRTA, timely problem solving, continuity of knowledge, unattended verification of solution transfers and assists with reverification over time of presently used algorithms for each tank.