DEVELOPMENT OF AN ENHANCED TEST REGIME FOR SAFEGUARDS EQUIPMENT

Changes in technology, operating environments, and the desire for longer operation on backup power have significantly changed development efforts for Safeguards equipment. In this evolving development environment, the need for rigorous, focused testing is even more critical. The IAEA Common Qualification Test Criteria for New Safeguards Equipment is a solid foundation for Safeguards equipment testing. However, as with any development effort, one must continually look at improvements to the entire process including testing. As environments change, the challenge becomes one of anticipating problems, even those that are unknown at the present, and developing a test regime that will identify areas needing improvement that will enhance the overall reliability of the fielded system. In this paper we will look at the development process with a focus on testing methods that can enhance the current IAEA Common Qualification Test Criteria for New Safeguards Equipment. Funding from the United States Support Program supports this development process.