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The necessity for efficient inspection inside a fusion tokamak arises from the extreme environmental conditions to which the components are subjected. Traditional inspection methods are insufficient due to these hazardous conditions, highlighting the need for advanced surface inspection technologies. Via an embedded engineering contract, the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), as part of the “Fusion Futures programme,” commissioned M5tec to conduct research on surface inspection technologies that will be instrumental in making future decisions for the design and development of fusion-relevant inspection systems.
The project, titled “Surface Inspection Technologies for Fusion Machines,” focuses on identifying and analysing existing surface inspection technologies available in both industry and academia. M5tec undertook a comprehensive market survey to provide UKAEA with valuable insights into the current landscape of inspection technologies. The scope of work included:
The project resulted in the production of several technical artefacts, including:
The completion of this project underscores M5tec’s exceptional capability and expertise in surface inspection technologies, fusion energy, and comprehensive market research. By providing practical engineering design proposals and detailed technical artefacts, M5tec has demonstrated its ability to identify and adapt inspection technologies for the unique demands of high-radiation environments in fusion energy machines.
This project was awarded to M5tec under the Embedded Engineering Resource multi-supplier framework in which M5tec are a subcontractor to AtkinsRéalis Ltd.
Working on this project with UKAEA has been a fantastic experience. At M5tec, we conducted in-depth research into surface and sub-surface inspection technologies, providing UKAEA with valuable insights to guide future fusion machine maintenance. Our work included market analysis, Technology Readiness Assessments, and engagement with academic and industrial experts. This project has strengthened our expertise in inspection techniques and technology assessment while allowing us to contribute to a crucial challenge in fusion energy.
Working on this project with Prasant has been very rewarding. He did an excellent job in investigating various technologies to undertake surface inspection of plasma facing components. Having investigated the market, he organised industry collaborations with the project team to obtain practical experience of these inspection techniques. He has greatly contributed to increasing UKAEA and UK industry knowledge.
