The Application of Laser-Scanning 3D Model Reconstruction Technology for Visualizing a Decommissioning Model of the Heavy Water Research Reactor

Abstract

Currently, over 100 nuclear power units globally have been in operation for more than 40 years. Hindered by the limitations of computer technology at the time, these nuclear facilities lack detailed electronic drawings. Activities such as equipment replacement and process circuit system modifications during operation result in discrepancies between paper drawings and actual conditions. Given the complexity and irreversibility of nuclear facility decommissioning activities, virtual simulation technology is often employed before the decommissioning process begins to assist in designing and validating decommissioning plans. Consequently, the creation of high-precision 3D models is crucial for subsequent decommissioning designs. Through innovatively utilizing laser-scanning 3D model reconstruction technology in the reconstruction of the model of China’s first heavy water research reactor undergoing decommissioning, this paper provides an overview of the process of laser-scanning 3D model reconstruction and its application in reconstructing the heavy water research reactor model. Using a 3D laser scanner, four decommissioning areas of the heavy water research reactor, including the reactor building, secondary water pump room, ventilation center, and low-level radioactive wastewater storage tank area, were subjected to 3D laser scanning. The acquired point cloud data from 572 scanning stations were processed using point cloud processing software for denoising, stitching, and triangulation. The triangulated model was then imported into modeling software for 3D reconstruction, ultimately establishing a digitalized model of the heavy water research reactor suitable for subsequent decommissioning simulation and design.