Cutting-edge radar technology answers duct monitoring challenge

A Dublin-based technology firm specialising in state-of-the-art asset monitoring solutions has been awarded Game Changers funding for a 6-month proof of concept project.

Using technology created for environmental monitoring in other sectors, PRAM will develop an IoT device that integrates radar, temperature and humidity sensors, and a microphone in order to understand environmental conditions within ventilation ducting and highlight any potential corrosion.

The radar element of the device emits a radar wave which when returned to the sensor can suggest changes in surface properties to help operators remotely assess and predict the development of corrosion inside ventilation ducts. The microphone provides an indication of changes in the HEPA filtration system, using differences in pitch as an early warning sign of potential clogging or failure of the filters.

Stephen McNulty, Founder of PRAM, said “We are delighted to be awarded this prestigious funding to develop a new ventilation monitoring technology platform for the Sellafield site. Our technology is ideal for long-term, mission-critical, condition intelligence applications.”

Mike Parrish, Lead System Engineer at Sellafield Ltd, said “Ventilation systems play a key role in the nuclear industry in keeping people, plant and the environment safe, both on- and off-site, often beyond the operational use of the building. Long-term condition monitoring of these assets is therefore of critical importance to us and colleagues in the wider nuclear industry. The PRAM technology appears well suited to our requirements, and we look forward to validating the solution.”

Fifteen devices are planned to be built ready for an inactive demo as part of the project, which is expected to conclude in the spring.