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The Teledyne LeCroy Test Services (TLTS) SMARTSTEM measures stem thrust and/or torque using bonded resistance strain gages directly mounted to the valve stem. Using proprietary techniques available only to TLTS, the patented SMARTSTEM is the most accurate means of measuring loads experienced by the valve stem, as demonstrated at an industry-sponsored validation program.
SMARTSTEM transducers are direct replacements of the valve stems supplied by the valve manufacturers.
ACCURACY
SMARTSTEMs have a calibrated accuracy to ±0.50% of full scale.
SMARTSTEM Transducer Desciption
Transducer measures loads using a strain gage sensing element sensitive to thrust and/or torque loads. Strain is related to thrust or torque during a laboratory calibration. This calibration is traceable to the National Institute of Standards
and Technology. A SMARTSTEM Transducer is a direct replacement of the original valve stem supplied by the manufacturer.
QUALIFICATION
The SMARTSTEM manufacturing process is controlled under the TLTS Quality Assurance Program, which complies with 10CFR50, Appendix B. Design verification is provided as an option. Calibration certification traceable to NIST is provided for each
TLTS SMARTSTEM.
DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEMS
In addition to the TLTS SMARTSTEM, TLTS offers a motor-operated valve testing and diagnostic system, QUIKLOOK 3.5 FS, which provides a nearly instantaneous review of the SMARTSTEM thrust and torque signal data.
BACKGROUND
Utilities operating nuclear power plants agree that the correct functioning of all safety-related power operated valves is paramount. Regulatory (NRC Generic Letters 89-10/96-05 and 10CFR50.55a) and Code (ASME OM Code, Appendix III/IV) requirements drive the need for utilities to perform baseline and periodic diagnostic testing to ensure these safety-related power operated valves are capable of performing their required design functions. TLTS's patented transducer differs from all existing measurement techniques currently offered.