2D Ultrasonic Antenna System for Imaging in Liquid Sodium

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Engineering
• Materials Science
• Non-destructive Testing

Background:

• In-service inspection of sodium-cooled reactors (SFRs) is critical for operational safety.
• Existing inspection methods may have limitations in liquid sodium environments.
• Advanced ultrasonic techniques offer potential for improved visualization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an ultrasound imaging system for long-distance vision in the primary circuit of SFRs.
• To optimize antenna parameters for enhanced imaging performance.
• To assess the system's capabilities and limitations in liquid sodium environments.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an ultrasound imaging system with two orthogonal antennas, adapted from underwater imaging technology.
• Conducted simulation studies using CIVA software to optimize antenna parameters.
• Performed experimental measurements in a water tank to validate system performance.

Main Results:

• Simulation results provided insights into optimizing antenna parameters for the imaging system.
• Experimental measurements demonstrated the system's capability for visualization in a relevant medium.
• Identified limitations in current imaging performance.

Conclusions:

• The developed ultrasound imaging system shows promise for in-service inspection of SFRs.
• Further research is ongoing to overcome identified performance limitations.
• This technology can contribute to enhanced safety and maintenance of nuclear reactors.