Democratization of 3D Applications in Nuclear Power Plants: Laser Scanning 3D Technology Implementation on Spanish PWRs

On January 2008, the US NRC issued the Generic Letter 2008-01 [1], “Managing gas accumulation in emergency core cooling, decay heat removal and containment spray systems”. Among other responses, this letter requires an evaluation of locations sensitive to accumulate gases in several safety systems. In order to get accurate data related to the real slope of horizontal pipes and other geometrical parameters needed for this evaluation, laser scanning and 3D modeling techniques have been applied in Spanish Nuclear Power Plants. From October 2008 to December 2009, five Spanish units have been scanned and modeled. As a result of these activities, the plants have obtained detailed 3D models as well as 2D as-built drawings of the selected components. These models were integrated in 3D web servers which give a panoramic view of the scanned areas and permitted measurements in the local coordinate system of the plant. Moreover, the 2D elevation drawings included accurate and useful information for the plants in order to make decisions related to the GL-2008-01 requirements. The geometric information generated in the frame of the GL-2008-01 activities is being currently used for alternative applications. For instance, laser scanning technology is being used to enhance design modification procedures. A pilot project on the MSRs replacement is being currently carried out with successful results. This technology has the advantage that new components from CAD software can be updated in the as-built models obtained through laser scanning. In addition to this, it’s very easy to check fitting and interferences, and also to make accurate measurements and handling simulations. The potential applications in personnel training and radiological protection are also very important. The panoramic viewers on 3D web servers are versatile and could fit the specific requirements of each organization. Regarding staff training, virtual tours and component seekers are being currently developed. These tools provide a significant save of time and dose and also give independence for each person to get to the working place without external help or time-consuming paper consulting. Integration with existing plant databases is also possible through the panoramic viewers and is currently being developed for In-Service Inspections and Maintenance applications. The main advantage of these products is their accessibility with free visors which don’t need specific training. Therefore, the implementation of these tools doesn’t need additional investments. In conclusion, Laser 3D Technology Applications set the first step on the democratization of these powerful 3D environments among common users as integrated tools in their daily work.