Drift Monitoring Program

  • Sensor Drift Monitoring
  • Reporting
  • Sensor Calibration Data Repository
  • Drift Analysis

Why monitor sensor drift?

Why Monitor sensor pic

This is a proactive approach to ensure that actual sensor drift performance in the field is bounded by the drift limits in the engineering analysis. Using this key component provides tangible reports and evidence that can be used to demonstrate to management, INPO, auditors and the NRC that your instrument performance is meeting the safety analysis limits as well as the station licensing and design basis requirements.

We already store sensor calibration data. What do we need this process for?

Having the calibration data available in one location with direct access to the engineer shifts you from the data gathering mode to the analysis mode almost immediately. When data is stored in remote locations, it can take almost as much time to gather the data as it does to answer the question at hand. Data access empowers the engineer to appropriately focus on impacts to the design and licensing basis.

What will a drift report do for me?

It provides easy to understand, organized and consistent documentation to display the calibration data along with any flagged drift values that exceed the drift limits. Required information (current and historical) is captured in one location so trends can be easily identified, the overall health of the instrument can be quickly determined at a glance and analysis can be performed. It is also handy for obtaining funding for sensor replacement projects when "bad actors" show clear negative trends with actual drift data. Another use of drift data is as an input to design calculations allowing potential calibration interval extensions

Why do I need drift analysis and what is being analyzed?

Why Analysis pic

Post calibration of a sensor in the program, the data is entered into the Drift Monitorin Software. The drift is then automatically calculated and compared to the drift limit that is flagged if this limit is exceeded. The deficiency is then documented in the corrective action program for an engineering evaluation. The drift is evaluated against the licensing and design basis including any applicable uncertainty calculations referenced in the program. Negative trends are identified and past history is compare to the current data set. A graded approach is used to develop a recommendation for acceptability or replacement. This evaluation is documented in the corrective action program creating a running history

How are parameters, drift limits, components, etc. added or changed?

Parameters pic

The administrative section of the program allows the following types of issues to be addressed:

  • Procedures
  • Components
  • Models
  • Drift Limit Basis
  • Employee Information