An Investigation on Enhancing Thermocouple Performance in NPPS

Abstract

In-core temperature measurements are pivotal in maintaining nuclear reactors in a safe state of operation. Thermocouples serve as the liaison in ensuring this state to be achieved. The realization of the thermocouple’s full potential is hindered by two facts: (1) thermocouples cannot be situated in areas with high radiation fields, since radioactive particles have the potential of generating voltages in the thermocouple wires, hence producing an error in the temperature transmitter output and (2) thermocouples posses a disadvantageous transient response. In this paper, the methods to alleviate these drawbacks are discussed. Firstly, the effect of radioactive particles can be minimized by using an innovative electric circuit design. Secondly, the means by which to enhance the thermocouple’s transient response is investigated through the use of a “compensation” technique.