FUEL ROD ASSAY

Abstract

The performance capabilities of a National Nuclear Corporation Rod/Sample assay unit was investigated. In conjunction with this, the existing program for on-line data analysis on a Hewlett-Packard 9821A calculator is improved by the use of a least squares curve fit to a quarter sine wave in order to introduce better end corrections. Calibration curves of various modes are established after which it becomes possible to study the effect of end off-specs and detectability limits. The aim of the optimization process is to achieve the detection of a 20%-cm off-spec with a detection frequency of 95% in the minimum amount of time. The conditions necessary are presented