On-site water level measurement method based on wavelength division multiplexing for harsh environments in nuclear power plants

Abstract

A simple water level measurement method based on wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) is proposed and demonstrated. The measurement principle is based on the change of Fresnel reflection occurring at the end facet of the optical fiber tip (OFT). To increase the spatial resolution of water level sensing, a broadband light source (BLS) and an arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) are employed. The OFTs are multiplexed with the dedicated wavelength channels of AWG. By measuring all of the reflection powers reflected at the OFTs with a proposed on-site reflectometer, the water level can be monitored continuously for a fast emergency response. Moreover, it can be implemented easily with the commercially available optical components and devices with the simple configuration.

Keywords

• Spent fuel pool
• Water level measurement
• Optical fiber sensor
• Wavelength division multiplexing