Westinghouse ML, AI, and Digital Twin Developments for Nuclear Power Applications

Updated: November 18, 2024

Penn State Center for Acoustics and Vibration


Summary

The video discusses Westinghouse's groundbreaking innovations in the nuclear power industry, such as the use of finite element analysis and accident-tolerant fuel. It also delves into the application of machine learning for predicting manufacturing process parameters, analyzing bolt degradation in reactors, and automating inspection and monitoring through digital twin technology. The integration of drones and machine learning for detecting concrete cracks, as well as the utilization of deep recurrent neural networks for simulating severe accidents in real-time, are also key areas of focus for enhancing safety and reducing costs in nuclear power plants.


Introduction to Westinghouse Innovations

Overview of Westinghouse's history of innovation in the nuclear power industry, including the use of commercial finite element analysis and the development of accident-tolerant fuel.

Machine Learning in Manufacturing

Utilization of machine learning to predict performance and process parameters in manufacturing operations to improve quality and reduce scrap generation.

Predictive Modeling for Bolt Degradation

Development of predictive models to analyze bolt degradation in reactors, considering stress analysis, pressure, temperature, and vibration effects over time.

Automated Analysis of Inspection Data

Application of machine learning and digital twin technology for automated analysis of inspection and monitoring data within reactor structures to understand degradation mechanisms.

Automated Concrete Crack Detection

Usage of drones and machine learning to detect concrete cracks in nuclear power plant civil structures, enhancing inspection efficiency and capturing potential acoustic emissions.

Real-time Accident Simulation

Implementation of deep recurrent neural networks for real-time simulation of severe accidents in nuclear power plants, aiding in improving accident management strategies and reducing associated costs.

Component Condition Monitoring

Introduction of a methodology for component condition monitoring using anomaly detection, diagnostics, and prognostics, supported by advanced pattern recognition software for improved plant economics.


FAQ

Q: What is the purpose of utilizing machine learning in the nuclear power industry?

A: Machine learning is used to predict performance and process parameters in manufacturing operations to improve quality and reduce scrap generation, and to analyze bolt degradation in reactors considering various factors over time.

Q: How does Westinghouse use digital twin technology in the nuclear power industry?

A: Westinghouse uses digital twin technology for automated analysis of inspection and monitoring data within reactor structures to understand degradation mechanisms.

Q: In what ways are drones and machine learning being applied in nuclear power plants?

A: Drones and machine learning are used to detect concrete cracks in nuclear power plant civil structures, enhancing inspection efficiency and capturing potential acoustic emissions.

Q: What is the purpose of introducing deep recurrent neural networks in nuclear power plants?

A: Deep recurrent neural networks are used for real-time simulation of severe accidents in nuclear power plants to aid in improving accident management strategies and reducing associated costs.

Q: How is anomaly detection, diagnostics, and prognostics applied in the nuclear power industry by Westinghouse?

A: Westinghouse implements anomaly detection, diagnostics, and prognostics for component condition monitoring, supported by advanced pattern recognition software, to improve plant economics.

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