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For further details about the conference and book your place, please visit the event website.
Please could you briefly explain your role, involvement, and experience with regards to Nuclear Ventilation and the IMechE’s 11th Nuclear Ventilation Conference?
Kristie Ryan (KR): I am a Project Manager at FIS360 Ltd working on the Game Changers programme, the UK's leading nuclear innovation programme, finding solutions and developing technologies to overcome some of the most complex challenges facing the nuclear industry. The Game Changers challenges are open to anyone from any sector who can offer a viable solution, including SMEs, universities, research organisations and large companies.
Currently, I am leading on a challenge which involves finding innovative solutions for the long-term monitoring of air ducts at Sellafield Ltd. Our primary objective is to identify techniques that can provide early indications of duct degradation or corrosion. To accomplish this, the Game Changers programme has granted funding to six feasibility projects dedicated to developing technologies specifically tailored for the nuclear industry.
What, in your experience, has been the biggest roadblock for utilising innovative technologies in your sector?
KR: Innovation is a key driver of progress in the nuclear sector, and it requires a diverse range of expertise and knowledge from various industries to achieve success. The nuclear industry can benefit greatly from the experiences and practices of other industries, including oil and gas, water, academia etc. Through the Game Changers programme, we can support companies and organisations with a team of commercialisation experts who provide innovation guidance, helping to fulfil the commercial potential of technologies and increase the chance of full implementation on nuclear sites.
By bringing in expertise from different industries, the nuclear sector can benefit from a fresh perspective and innovative solutions to complex problems. Collaboration between industries also promotes knowledge-sharing and helps to build a more robust and sustainable nuclear industry.
What key topics are you excited to discuss at this year's conference?
KR: I'm excited to explore the latest technological innovations in nuclear ventilation and how they are addressing the current challenges faced by the industry. I'm also interested in discussions on how diverse industries can collaborate and contribute their unique perspectives to find solutions. In particular, I'm keen to learn about successful strategies for deploying technologies into duct work.
What would you say are the technologies or applications to watch for the future?
KR: Exciting progress is being made in the field of sensors, making them smaller, more capable and versatile than ever before. This has opened up opportunities to deploy sensors in previously inaccessible areas and collect large amounts of data. The deployment methods for these sensors are becoming increasingly creative through the use of robotics and clever mechanisms, allowing engineers and scientists to collect real-time data and learn about conditions in remote and hazardous areas.
Who else are you most interested in hearing from on the programme?
KR: It will be great to hear from all the innovation presentations. I'm particularly interested in hearing about how different companies and organisations are using technology and creativity to address the challenges faced by the industry.
Why is it important for engineers to join this conference?
KR: It is important to join in this conference to gain knowledge, learn about the latest developments in nuclear ventilation technology, and network with peers and experts in the field. The conference offers a unique opportunity to explore emerging technologies, exchange ideas and experiences, and stay up to date with the latest trends and best practices in nuclear ventilation engineering.
The Nuclear Ventilation 2023 conference takes place on 14-15 November in Manchester
Taking place every two years and now in its 11th successive iteration, this two-day conference is the only event of its kind that enables power industry professionals and engineering practitioners from all sectors of the nuclear community to stay abreast of developments in nuclear ventilation within the UK.
Join the conversation about current issues in the industry during panel sessions and contribute to shaping the future of nuclear ventilation: view full details and book your place on the event website.