DCVD system with camera and UV zoom lens mounted on a railing

A Next-Generation Solution for Spent Nuclear Fuel Verification

The Digital Cerenkov Viewing Device (DCVD) represents a milestone in non-intrusive spent fuel inspection. 

Engineered to detect the unique ultraviolet signal produced by irradiated fuel assemblies submerged in water, the DCVD reveals Cerenkov light in real time for both qualitative and quantitative analysis. 

Its high-sensitivity detector and robust UV imaging capability enable inspectors to verify fuel presence, assess assembly integrity, and effectively detect missing or substituted rods, all without physically disturbing the fuel. 

With rugged construction, simplified setup and transportability, the DCVD is built for routine use in nuclear facilities. Due to the integrated custom bandpass filter, the instrument is only sensitive in the 295-340 nm region of the spectrum, which allows it to be used under normal ambient light conditions making it a versatile and reliable tool for spent fuel pond inventories, safeguards inspections, and long-term storage verification campaigns.

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Fuel assemblies in false colour showing cerenkov light emission

Real-Time Cerenkov Evaluation Delivering Precision, Portability, and Performance

The newest generation DCVD delivers digital still-image or video output via a user-friendly interface. Its built-in computer processes the captured Cerenkov signal, displaying images in real time and archiving them for later review or comparison. This digital workflow dramatically reduces inspection time and improves documentation. 

The system is built with field usability in mind: operator-friendly setup, multiple mount options for facility railings or fuel-handling bridges, and a high-visibility targeting laser to aid alignment. 

Running on rechargeable batteries for several hours, and allowing hot-swaps for indefinite runtime, the DCVD delivers reliable performance even during extended inspection campaigns.

DCVD Key Features:

  • 512 x 512 pixel resolution (576 x 288 available)
  • 14 fps & 14-bit digitalization (16-bit available)
  • Still imaging or video
  • High-visibility targeting laser
  • Easy set-up & transportation
  • User-friendly graphical user interface
  • Multiple mount options for use in any facility
  • Rugged construction
DCVD system with camera and UV zoom lens mounted on a railing

System Components:

  • UV Zoom lens, 80 mm to 200 mm (optional)
  • 105 mm lens (optional)
  • 250 mm lens (optional)
  • Multipurpose railing bracket
  • Embedded Windows XP computer
  • Replacement roller system
  • Spare batteries
  • Shipping case

Technical Specifications

Specification

DCVD

Detector
Manufacturer Andor Technologies
Sensor Lumogen-coated CCD
Resolution 512 x 512 pixels
Pixel Size 16 x 16 µm
Quantum Efficiency (at 300 nm, typical %) 30
Dark Current (e-/p/s) 0.01
Digitization 14 Bit

Filter
Bandpass 295-340 nm
% Transmission 80
Transmission Outside 295-340 nm <0.1

UV Zoom Lens
Manufacturer Channel Systems
Focal Length (mm) 80-200
Aperture F/3.2
Focus Range (m) 3m to infinity

Computer
Type Intel
CPU Intel Core i3-5010U
Memory 4 GB DDR3
System Drive Storage 128 GB M.2 SSD
Display 210 mm TFT
Software DCView 4.0

Physical
Shipping Cases: Exterior Dimensions (mm) 625 x 500 x 375
Total Shipping Weight (Kg) 45
DCVD-e Dimensions (mm) 870 x 200 x 430
DCVD-e Weight (kg) 20
Operating Time (batteries at full charge, h) 3-4
Battery Type Li-ion rechargable
Power Source Batteries/AC power adapter

Environmental
Operating Temperature (°C) 5 to 30
Storage Temperature (°C) -20 to 50
Relative Humidity (%, non-condensing) <70

 

Additional Information

Compatible Accessories

UV Zoom Lens
Questions? Contact Us!

Datasheets & Resources

DCVD Technical Specifications
Digital Cerenkov Viewing Device (DCVD) Brochure