Design and application of portable eddy current inspection device for thimble tubes of nuclear power plant

Abstract The Thimble tube is an important piece of equipment in the nuclear power plant; its role is to provide a neutron flux detector with a channel for the reactor fuel assembly. Eddy current detection is the main way to evaluate and track the wear of the thimble tube. In order to conduct more efficient detection of the thimble tube, this paper has carried out a series of studies on the mechanical device of the eddy current detection of the thimble tube and the software control system. The inspection system is compact, portable, and does not require an external power supply or gas source, making it easy to carry and operate. It is well-suited for promotion in various nuclear power plants.