Development of automatic algorithm for localizing loose parts with a steam generator

In this paper, an automatic localization algorithm for estimating the impact location by loose parts in a Steam Generator using modified triangular method is proposed and applied to the impact test data of YongGwang Nuclear Power Plant Unit 3 Steam Generator. The algorithm, at first, was developed at the Mock-up system and modified to apply for the real plant. The Steam Generator is modeled as a cylinder shape and the modified method is used to find out the impact point of a loose part on the model. The result of estimated impact point applying to the developed algorithm has below about 5% average error. If the algorithm will be installed in the existing plant or next generation plant, the safety and reliability of Nuclear Power Plant will be improved.