Algorithm development for quality monitoring on end plug resistance weldment of nuclear fuel rods

Abstract

The welded area of nuclear fuel rods has the highest possibility of leakage during the combustion of nuclear fuel. The welded area therefore must have integrity and strength. Burst tests and metallographic tests are currently performed via sampling for the quality evaluation of the welded area of fuel rods. Due to the significance of the welded area, extensive research has been conducted on non-destructive testing methods, such as radiography and ultrasonography, to enable real-time inspection as well as full quantity inspection. Applying these testing methods to the actual site, however, is quite challenging.