Robotic applications in PSE&G´s nuclear and fossil power plants

Robots are rapidly becoming a strategic technology in the electric utility industry. Since 1983, over 200 applications of these devices have been documented, often resulting in significant time and manpower savings. In nuclear plants, these devices have reduced radiation exposure to human workers and also reduced plant downtime. Public Service Electric and Gas (PSE&G) Company is a nationally recognized leader in this technology. Since 1987, the company has spent $1.6 million on robotic hardware and development projects for use at its Salem (2 PWRs) and Hope Creek (1 BWR) nuclear plants. Savings to date from these investments has exceded $5 million. Recently PSE&G has expanded its robotic application efforts to include fossil plants, with many new concepts. This paper discusses the state-of-the-art of mobile robots in the utility industry, and use of PSE&G´s pioneering work in this area as a case study; discussing the cost, performance and benefits of specific applications