Implementation of the Fissile Mass Flow Monitor Source Verification and Confirmation

Uckan, Taner ; March-Leuba, Jose A ; Powell, Danny H ; Nelson, Dennis ; Radev, Radoslav

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

关键词: Fission;    Television;    Cameras;    Monitoring;    Half-Life;   

DOI  :  10.2172/1042716
RP-ID  :  ORNL/TM-2007/068
RP-ID  :  DE-AC05-00OR22725
RP-ID  :  1042716

美国|英语

来源: UNT Digital Library

【 摘 要 】

This report presents the verification procedure for neutron sources installed in U.S. Department of Energy equipment used to measure fissile material flow. The Fissile Mass Flow Monitor (FMFM) equipment determines the {sup 235}U fissile mass flow of UF{sub 6} gas streams by using {sup 252}Cf neutron sources for fission activation of the UF{sub 6} gas and by measuring the fission products in the flow. The {sup 252}Cf sources in each FMFM are typically replaced every 2 to 3 years due to their relatively short half-life ({approx} 2.65 years). During installation of the new FMFM sources, the source identity and neutronic characteristics provided by the manufacturer are verified with the following equipment: (1) a remote-control video television (RCTV) camera monitoring system is used to confirm the source identity, and (2) a neutron detection system (NDS) is used for source-strength confirmation. Use of the RCTV and NDS permits remote monitoring of the source replacement process and eliminates unnecessary radiation exposure. The RCTV, NDS, and the confirmation process are described in detail in this report.