Nuclear Power Plants and Radiation Technology

nuclear power plant 4727976 1280 min
Foto von mhollaen auf Pixabay

Nuclear power plants are complex facilities that use nuclear energy to generate electricity. They operate by splitting atomic nuclei, which releases a large amount of energy. This energy is then used to heat water and produce steam that drives turbines and thus generates electricity. Due to the way this energy is generated, radiation and radiation safety play a central role in the operation and monitoring of nuclear power plants.

Radiation Technology Products

Various radiation technology products are used to ensure both the safety of the facility and the protection of workers and the environment:

  • Radionuclide Identifiers (RID): These devices are crucial for identifying and quantifying radionuclides in the environment. They are particularly important in situations where a potential release of radioactive materials has occurred or is suspected.
  • Dosimeters: These instruments measure the dose of ionizing radiation to which a person has been exposed. They are crucial for protecting workers by ensuring that individual radiation exposure remains within legal and safety limits.
  • Dose Rate Meters: They measure the rate at which radiation dose is delivered, i.e., the dose rate. This information is important for monitoring areas within and outside the facility to ensure they are safely accessible.
  • Dose Rate Warning Devices: These devices are designed to trigger alarms when the radiation dose rate exceeds certain thresholds. They are an important part of the safety management in a nuclear power plant, as they allow for immediate warnings.
  • Contamination Detection Devices: These instruments are essential for detecting contamination of surfaces with radioactive substances. They play an important role in decontamination and in procedures to prevent the spread of radioactive materials.
  • Probes: Specialized probes are used to take samples of the environment or perform measurements in areas that are difficult for humans to access. They can also be used to identify specific types of radiation.
  • Telescopes: Telescopes used in radiation technology can serve to detect high-energy particles from cosmic sources or from the reactor itself. They are important for research purposes and for monitoring the natural radiation background.
  • Area Monitoring Monitors: These devices are constantly operated to monitor radiation levels in various areas of the facility. They help ensure that the work environment remains safe and that no unexpected events occur.

Each of these devices contributes in its own way to ensuring safety in nuclear power plants by enabling precise measurement, monitoring, and control of radiation. The continuous development and improvement of these technologies are crucial for further enhancing nuclear safety and ensuring the protection of people and the environment.

  • Simultaneous monitoring of up to 3 areas with any probes from the GRAETZ probe program
  • Up to 3 measuring channels
  • An illuminated LC display is assigned to each measuring channel, on which the measured values are displayed
  • When using gamma probes, the dose rate is shown on the LC display in Sv/h
  • When using end window probes (α-/β-measurements) or NaI scintillation probes (β-/γ-measurements), the measured value is displayed in Ips
  • For each channel 4 freely programmable dose rate warning thresholds in the entire measuring range of the respective connected gamma probe
  • The measuring range switchover within a channel takes place automatically. If a measuring channel triggers a dose rate alarm, both an optical and an acoustic warning is given at the WS05C by the integrated warning light column
  • In the standard version: Green for “Ready for operation”, Orange for “Warning threshold exceeded”, Red for “Error message” (e.g. probe failure).
  • Red LED above the display indicates which measuring channel has triggered an alarm
  • An RS-232 interface is available for connecting a measuring channel to a PC
  Optional:
  • Relay output for controlling an additional external optional warning light column for each measuring channel
  • Potential-free relay output for each measuring channel (switching capacity max. 24 V, 20 mA)
  • Acoustic alarm with triggered warning threshold occurs when the door to the monitored room is open, a motion detector or a light barrier has been activated
  • Counter for irradiation time
  • Operating hours counter
  • Rotating beacon
  • Integration of already existing warning devices
  • External warning light columns (optical/acoustic)
  • Probe cable, extension up to 100 m (standard length: 1.25 m)
  • Emergency power supply (300 W) for uninterrupted operation of WS05C in case of power failure
  • Special designs possible on request
Datasheet

  • For measuring high dose rates/pulse rates from a safe distance
  • For measurements in poorly accessible measuring locations
  • Easy connection with the X5C plus SE, X5C FW dose rate meters and the X5C plus calibratable dose rate meter via contact row using snap-in technology
  • Safe connection of telescope and base unit without plug or cable (only via contact row)
  • Telescope made of stainless steel, continuously extendable up to 4 m total length
  • Torsion-proof connection between measuring head and electronics through internally routed ribbon cable
  • Automatic measuring range switchover
  • Display of dose rate at the operator’s location at the push of a button
  • Voltage supply from the dose rate meter
  • Energy range, measuring range, measured variable correspond to the data of the respective connected probes
Note for use by fire departments:
  • Possibility of connecting the X50ZS dose rate meter by means of a special adaptation module
Datasheet

  • For measuring high dose rate from a safe distance, dose rate measurement range up to 10 Sv/h for ambient dose equivalent rate Ḣ*(10).
  • For measurements in poorly accessible measuring locations
  • Safe connection of the telescopic probe DE with the dose rate meters X5C plus SE, X5C FW and the calibratable dose rate meter X5C plus without plug or cable by snap-in technology
  • Stainless steel telescope, continuously extendable up to 4 m total length
  • IP54 with telescope inserted and protective cap in place
  • Torsion-proof connection between measuring head and electronics through internally routed ribbon cable
  • Automatic measuring range switchover
  • Display of dose rate at the operator’s location selectable at the push of a button
  • Power supply from the X5C plus, X5C plus SE or X5C FW dose rate meter
Note for use by fire departments:
  • Possibility of connecting the X50ZS dose rate meter by means of a special adaptation module
Datasheet

  • Thin film plastic scintillation detector with ZnS coating, integrated photomultiplier and detector electronics.
  • High sensitivity
  • Detection of α-, β- and γ-contaminations
  • Detector size 170 cm²
  • Can be connected as a pulse probe to the X5C plus, X5C plus SE, X5C FW, GammaTwin S dose rate meters and the WS05C room monitoring system via probe cable
  • Display: Ip/s or Ip as pulse sum with integration time
  • Power supply from the dose rate meter X5C plus, X5C plus SE, X5C FW, GammaTwin S or the room monitoring system WS05C
  • Acoustic single pulse display on the dose rate meter X5C plus, X5C plus SE, X5C FW and GammaTwin S
  • Option for use with GammaTwin S: Universal mount for one-hand operation
Datasheet

  • For measuring high dose rate from a safe distance, dose rate measurement range up to 10 Sv/h for ambient dose equivalent rate Ḣ*(10).
  • For measurements in poorly accessible measuring locations
  • Safe connection of the telescopic probe DE with the dose rate meters X5C plus SE, X5C FW and the calibratable dose rate meter X5C plus without plug or cable by snap-in technology
  • Stainless steel telescope, continuously extendable up to 4 m total length
  • IP54 with telescope inserted and protective cap in place
  • Torsion-proof connection between measuring head and electronics through internally routed ribbon cable
  • Automatic measuring range switchover
  • Display of dose rate at the operator’s location selectable at the push of a button
  • Power supply from the X5C plus, X5C plus SE or X5C FW dose rate meter
Note for use by fire departments:
  • Possibility of connecting the X50ZS dose rate meter by means of a special adaptation module
Datasheet

  • High sensitivity
  • Large detector area
  • Can be connected as a pulse probe to the X5C plus, X5C plus SE, X5C FW, GammaTwin S dose rate meters and the WS05C room monitoring system via probe cable
  • Display: Ip/s or Ip as pulse sum with integration time
  • Power supply from the dose rate meter X5C plus, X5C plus SE, X5C FW, GammaTwin S or the room monitoring system WS05C
  • Acoustic single pulse display on the dose rate meter X5C plus, X5C plus SE, X5C FW and GammaTwin S
  • Connectable via probe cable to
  • Contamination detection device GRAETZ CoMo-170
  • Partially anodized aluminum housing
Datasheet

  • Calibratable gamma probes for dose rate meters from the GRAETZ-X5C series
  • Impulse probes for dose rate meters from the GRAETZ X5C series and GammaTwin S
Datasheet

  • High-performance mobile contamination monitor with thin-layer plastic scintillation detector (complete elimination of gas-filled or gas-purged detectors).
  • A detector can be used to make α-, β- and γ-sensitive measurements, and the measurement system automatically detects whether alpha radiation is present
  • Possibility of simultaneous or selective measurement of α- and β-/γ-contaminations
  • User-friendly user interface (operation via 5 function keys)
  • Settings and measured value parameters protected by password
  • Integrated measurement data storage, optional software for reading and processing the measurement data
  • Optional stationary use in wall station with power supply
  • In case of mechanical destruction of the detector foil, the repair can be carried out inexpensively by the user himself (no costly detector repair in the manufacturer’s factory necessary as with the xenon detector)
  • Avoidance of high operating costs for gas flushing
  Available firmware versions:
  • CoMo-170 ZS DekoP: Measurement in Ip/s
  • CoMo-170 ZS ATF: nuclide-related measurement in Bq, Bq/cm².
Datasheet

  • High-performance, mobile contamination monitor with thin-layer plastic scintillation detector (complete elimination of gas-filled or gas-purged detectors).
  • A detector can be used to make α-, β- and γ-sensitive measurements, and the measurement system automatically detects whether alpha radiation is present
  • Possibility of simultaneous or selective measurement of α- and β-/γ-contaminations
  • User-friendly user interface (operation via 5 function keys)
  • Settings and measured value parameters protected by password
  • Integrated measurement data storage, optional software for reading and processing the measurement data
  • Connection option for various external probes, e.g. for dose rate measurement
  • Automatic detection of the probes
  • Optional stationary use in wall station with power supply
  • In case of mechanical destruction of the detector foil, the repair can be carried out inexpensively by the user himself (no costly detector repair in the manufacturer’s factory necessary as with the xenon detector)
  • Avoidance of high operating costs for gas flushing
Special versions:
  • CoMo-170 ZS and F: adapted to the tasks of the civil defense and the fire department
  • CoMo-170 DL: with additional GM counter tube integrated into the front face for measuring the dose rate
  • CoMo-170/-300 G: for pure gamma measurements
Datasheet

  • Battery operated dose rate warning device for the detection of γ- and X-radiation in the measurand Ḣ*(10) ambient dose equivalent rate.
  • The gamma warning light is preferably used to determine shut-off areas when a predefined dose rate is reached
  • The device has four warning thresholds that trigger visual and audible alarms when exceeded
  • The acoustic alarm can be switched off
  • Designed for rugged use
  • The housing is splashproof
  • Operating time with fully charged battery in ambient radiation approx. 48 hours without warnings
  Optional:
  • Stable tripod
  • Motion detector for triggering the acoustic warning when a person approaches the hazardous area in the case of increased radiation
The scope of delivery includes a charger for recharging the built-in battery
Datasheet

  • The GammaSmart two device is a very robust, pocket-sized, battery-operated dose rate warning device for personal radiation protection
  • It detects gamma and X-ray radiation and reports these with clear optical and acoustic single pulses, which increase in the pulse sequence as the dose rate increases
  • The splash-proof aluminum housing (IP54) provides shielding against electromagnetic influence, an optical battery control indicates the operational readiness of the device
  • A plastic clip is used to attach the dose rate warner to clothing
Optional:
  • GammaSmart two V40 with a dose rate warning threshold at 40 µSv/h for use in non-destructive testing (NDT) radiographic testing. For mobile handling, the local dose rate must not exceed 40 µSv/h.
Datasheet

  • The GammaTest C is a lightweight, rugged, battery-operated dose rate warning device for radiation protection for the detection of gamma and X-ray radiation in the measurand Ḣ*(10) ambient dose equivalent rate.
  • The GammaTest C has four warning thresholds that trigger audible and visual alarms when exceeded
  • Below the warning threshold, the GammaTest C indicates readiness for operation via the red LED and signals increases or decreases in dose rate as an optical single-pulse display by changing the flashing frequency
  • The dose rate warning threshold 25 µSv/h is used in fire department operations to determine the limit of a danger zone according to FwDV 500
  • The dose rate warning threshold 40 µSv/h is required in the field of non-destructive testing (NDT) for radiographic testing: For mobile handling, the local dose rate must not be higher than 40 µSv/h
  • The splash-proof, anodized aluminum housing provides shielding against electromagnetic influences
  • Operating time with one set of batteries at ambient radiation approx. 250 hours in 24 h operation
Datasheet

  • GammaFlash is a lightweight, rugged, battery-powered dose rate warning device for the detection of gamma and X-rays in the Ḣ*(10) ambient dose equivalent rate measurand.
  • Detector: Geiger-Müller counter tube with energy filter
  • It has a fixed warning threshold that triggers a visual and audible alarm when exceeded
  • The audible alarm can be acknowledged via a pushbutton on the housing perimeter
  • Below the preset warning threshold, the GammaFlash indicates the functional readiness and battery status via a red LED
  • By changing the blinking frequency of the optical single pulse display, an increase or decrease of the dose rate is indicated
  • Customized warning threshold between 7.5 µSv/h and 10 mSv/h can be implemented ex works
  • Easy to operate even with firefighter gloves on
  • The plastic housing is jet-proof, oil and petrol resistant
  • Thanks to a built-in magnet, the gamma radiation warning light can be attached to suitable metal surfaces if required
  • Possibility of individual labeling of the housing cover

Notice:

  • In the firefighter version, the GammaFlash is preset to the dose rate warning threshold of 25 µSv/h for determining the limit of a hazardous area
Datasheet

  • Calibratable dose rate meter for the measurement of gamma and X-ray radiation for the measurand Ḣ*(10) ambient dose equivalent rate.
  • Detector: Energy-compensated Geiger-Müller counter tube
  • Large digital measured value display on LC display (illuminable)
  • Optional dose rate or dose display with integration time
  • Additional quasi-analog display of dose rate (3.5 decades, logarithmic bar display)
  • Display of the dose rate peak value and the dose rate mean value
  • 4 freely programmable dose and dose rate warning thresholds
  • Automatic and manual storage of dose rate readings together with date and time
  • Dwell time/residual time determination
  • Switchable acoustic single pulse detection
  • Menu-driven operator guidance, partially password-protected
  • Storage of the set parameters even when the device is switched off or the battery is changed
  • High reliability due to test function and continuous self-monitoring
  • Metallized plastic housing, well decontaminable, protection class IP67
  • RS-232 interface
  • Can be combined directly or via probe cable with various probes (see brochure “Probe program”):
    • Measuring range extension up to 10 Sv/h –
    • For the detection of α-, β- and γ-radiation
    • For fluid testing
    • For measurements in hard-to-reach places
    • DE telescopic probe for measurements from a safe distance
    • Scintillation probe 2002 for measuring low dose rates
  • In custody transfer applications, the probes of the GRAETZ “CE” program are used
Datasheett
Datasheet SE

  • Dose rate meter for measuring gamma and X-ray radiation for the measurand Ḣ*(10) ambient dose equivalent rate.
  • Detector: Energy-compensated Geiger-Müller counter tube
  • Large digital measured value display on LC display (illuminable)
  • Optional dose rate or dose display with integration time
  • Additional quasi-analog display of dose rate (3.5 decades, logarithmic bar display)
  • Display of the dose rate peak value and the dose rate mean value
  • 4 freely programmable dose and dose rate warning thresholds
  • Warning thresholds adapted for use by fire departments
  • Automatic and manual storage of measured values together with date and time
  • Dwell time/residual time determination
  • Switchable acoustic single pulse detection
  • Menu-driven operator guidance
  • Release of the menu items for the device settings only possible with the aid of optionally available PC software
  • Storage of the set parameters even when the device is switched off or the battery is changed
  • High reliability due to test function and continuous self-monitoring
  • Metallized plastic housing, well decontaminable, protection class IP67
  • RS-232 interface
  • Can be combined directly or via probe cable with various probes (see GRAETZ probe program):
    • Measuring range extension up to 10 Sv/h
    • For the detection of α-, β- and γ-radiation
    • For fluid testing
    • For measurements in hard-to-reach places
    • DE telescopic probe for measurements from a safe distance
    • Scintillation probe 2002 for measuring low dose rates
  • Using the probes of the GRAETZ “CE” program
 

Optionally available:

  • PC software for configuring the warning thresholds, reading out and exporting the stored measured values and locking/unlocking menu items
  • Car charging cradle
Datasheet

  • Small, handy, calibratable dose rate meter for measuring gamma and X-ray radiation for the measurands Ḣ*(10) ambient dose equivalent rate and ambient dose equivalent H*(10) (to record the personal dose, a meter with the measurand Hp(10) must be used).
  • Detector: Energy-compensated Geiger-Müller counter tube
  • Large, digital measured value display on LC display (backlit)
  • Optional simultaneous or separate dose and dose rate display, additional analog display of dose rate as logarithmic bar display
  • 4 factory preset warning thresholds for dose and dose rate; customer-specific modification on request.
  • Switchable acoustic single pulse detection
  • Automatic continuous storage of the dose in a non flüchtiger memory.
  • Storage of the dose and the set parameters even when the battery is changed
  • Constant self-monitoring
  • Designed for rough use, aluminum housing, protection class IP54
  • Menu-driven operator guidance
  • Durable nylon belt pouch is included in delivery
  • Connection option for an external pulse probe:
    • 18526 D or ABG170 for contamination measurement (α, β, γ)
    • Immersion probe ZP1083 D (β, γ)
    • NaI scintillation probe 2002 for high-sensitivity measurements (β, γ)
  • With the probe connected:
    • Measured value display in Ips
    • Display of the temporal course of the pulse rates as a search function for tracing radioactive sources or contamination possible
    • Preselectable pulse rate warning threshold: double or triple zero effect
Datasheet

  • Small, handy, calibratable dose rate meter for measuring gamma and X-ray radiation for the measurands Ḣ*(10) ambient dose equivalent rate and ambient dose equivalent H*(10) (to record the personal dose, a meter with the measurand Hp(10) must be used).
  • Detector: Energy-compensated Geiger-Müller counter tube
  • Large, digital measured value display on LC display (backlit)
  • Optional simultaneous or separate dose and dose rate display, additional analog display of dose rate as logarithmic bar display
  • 4 factory preset warning thresholds for dose and dose rate; customer-specific modification on request.
  • Switchable acoustic single pulse detection
  • Automatic continuous storage of the dose in a non flüchtiger memory.
  • Storage of the dose and the set parameters even when the battery is changed
  • Constant self-monitoring
  • Designed for rough use, aluminum housing, protection class IP54 (splash-proof)
  • Menu-driven operator guidance
  • Durable nylon belt pouch is included in delivery

Optional: Test device PV-GTw and test source PS 9 for calibration validity extension to 6 years

Datasheet

  • Dosemeter for measuring gamma and X-ray radiation for the measurand Hp(10) (deep personal dose)
  • Detector: Energy-compensated Geiger-Müller counter tube
  • Switchable acoustic single pulse detection
  • Menu-driven operator guidance
  • Storage of the dose value and the set parameters even when the battery is changed
  • Four factory preset dose warning thresholds
  • Factory preset dose rate warning threshold
  • Visual and audible warning
  • High reliability due to constant self-monitoring
  • Small, handy housing, well decontaminable, protection class IP54
  • Operating time with one set of batteries in ambient radiation approx. 1 month in 24 h operation and 3 months in 8 h operation
  • Audible battery warning
  • Mounting clip and device bag included
Datasheet

  • Calibratable dosimeter for measuring gamma and X-ray radiation for the measurand Hp(10) (deep personal dose)
  • Detector: Energy-compensated Geiger-Müller counter tube
  • Optimum reading of measured values due to digital measured value display on angled LC display
  • Dose rate display at the touch of a button
  • Switchable acoustic single pulse detection
  • Menu-driven operator guidance
  • Storage of the dose value and the set parameters even when the battery is changed
  • 4 factory-set warning thresholds each for dose and dose rate (factory setting of customer-specific warning thresholds on request)
  • High reliability due to test function and continuous self-monitoring
  • Small, handy housing, well decontaminable
  • Waterproof up to 0.5 m diving depth, protection class IP67
  • Operating time approx. 1 year with one set of batteries under ambient radiation conditions

Optional: PV-EDW test device and PS 9 test source for extending calibration validity to 6 years

Datasheet

  • 2″ x 1″ BGO (Bi4Ge3O12) detector with superior efficiency
  • Improved overall robustness with non-hygroscopic BGO detector
  • Novel sourceless gain stabilization (Pat. US 9,864,076).
  • High dose rate capability and neutron detection with one detector
  • Nuclide identification at up to 1 million Ip/s
  • Directional radiation detection
  • Easy system integration through HTTP REST interface & universal API
  • N42.42 data format for simple remote data transmission
  • Remote control and configuration via web interface or app
  • Nuclide library (> 70 nuclides) exceeds IEC-62755 and ANSI-42.34 requirements
Datasheet
Brochure