Conduit Length Adjustment Apparatus for Steam Generator Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for adjusting conduit length in steam generators during eddy current inspections are inefficient, requiring manual addition or removal of flexible conduit sections, which increases radiation exposure for operators and is not feasible in all power plant settings due to limited working space.
Innovation Solution
A conduit length adjustment apparatus comprising a first and second conduit with a housing movement device that allows selective engagement and disengagement of bladders to adjust the length of the conduit by moving portions of flexible tubing in or out of each other, utilizing a piston and pressure ports to control the movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If manual addition or removal of flexible conduit sections is used to adjust conduit length, then conduit length can be adjusted, but radiation exposure for operators increases and working space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit length adjustment apparatus enables the conduit system to adjust its own length automatically through the piston-driven mechanism, eliminating the need for manual intervention by operators in high-radiation areas. The apparatus uses the existing hydraulic/pneumatic system to drive the piston, which in turn moves the conduit in or out of the housing, achieving self-service adjustment without human exposure to radiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment apparatus acts as an intermediary mechanism between the control system and the conduit. The piston and housing form a mechanical intermediary that translates controlled motion into conduit length adjustment, allowing operators to adjust conduit length remotely or automatically without directly handling the conduit in high-radiation zones.
2Length of moving object
If manual addition or removal of flexible conduit sections is used to adjust conduit length, then conduit length can be adjusted, but working space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus employs a nested configuration where the flexible conduit is stored within the housing when not in use. The piston mechanism allows the conduit to be extended from or retracted into the housing as needed, creating a compact nested arrangement that minimizes the working space required while still providing the necessary conduit length adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus provides dynamic conduit length adjustment through the piston mechanism, allowing the conduit length to be changed on-demand rather than requiring fixed pre-assembled lengths. This dynamic adjustment capability eliminates the need for large working spaces required for manual handling and storage of multiple conduit sections.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If automated conduit length adjustment is implemented, then radiation exposure is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The piston mechanism serves multiple functions: it acts as the primary actuator for conduit movement, provides sealing against the conduit to prevent fluid leakage, and enables both extension and retraction of the conduit. By using a single multi-functional component rather than separate mechanisms for each function, the overall device complexity is minimized while achieving automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus utilizes the existing hydraulic or pneumatic system already present in steam generator inspection equipment to drive the piston. This leverages available infrastructure rather than requiring a separate power source or control system, thereby reducing the added complexity that would otherwise be required for automation while still eliminating radiation exposure risks.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables precise and efficient adjustment of conduit length without the need for manual handling, reducing radiation exposure and accommodating limited working spaces, thereby enhancing the safety and operational flexibility of eddy current inspections in steam generators.
Implementation Method 1
a piston and pressure ports to control the movement
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A conduit length adjustment apparatus having first and second housings each having a member structured to engage the respective housing with a first conduit. A housing movement device is connected between the first and second housings and configured to change a distance between the first and second housings. Selective operation of the members and housing movement device causes the first conduit to move into or out of a second conduit.