Qualified Field-trialed Next-generation Advanced Portable Polymer Tester for Improved Cable Condition Monitoring in NPP

Abstract

SNC-Lavalin Nuclear is developing the next generation of portable polymer tester for testing indenter modulus in accordance with the international standard IEC/IEEE 62582-2. The instrument also measures Recovery Time as an indicator of cable degradation. The latest prototype is based on initial tool development by Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. with enhancements made to the instrument’s usability and ergonomics. The Advanced Portable Polymer Tester (APPT) features single user operation, touch screen control, consistent automated cable clamping, measurement of Indenter Modulus and Recovery Time, improved human factors and immediate preliminary results information post-test.SNC-Lavalin has collaborated with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories and NB Power to qualify the methodology used for operation of the APPT to ensure results obtained with the APPT predict accurately the cable aging characteristics. As part of the development process the APPT has been field trialed at the Pt. Lepreau NGS and OPEX obtained has been incorporated into the design.