A SURVEY OF RESEARCH TOWARDS THE SUPPORT AND AUTOMATION OF CANDU PRESSURE TUBE ULTRASONIC DATA ANALYSIS

Abstract

Ultrasonic inspection of CANDU Pressure Tubes involves the acquisition and analysis of significant volumes of data. Historically attempts to provide decision support and automation of analysis have been limited by computational constraints. Recent advances in theory and a steady advance in the capacity of computational devices have provided segue to reconsider the provision of such support. Of late a body of research intended to advance such improvements has developed. In this survey we describe the current analysis process, reference work done to date, discuss key issues affecting regulator acceptance of novel methods, and provide details of research currently underway.