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- non-invasive scanning for optimisation of biological and synthetic products
- isotope and nuclear science facilities underpinning dating and environmental sciences
- ion beam technologies underpinning material sciences
The aim of the Isotope Applications section is to look into and understand the industrial, biological and environmental processes we cannot normally see, so that we have the information to manage our businesses and natural resources more effectively. One practical application of this research and development is a device which measures the strength of power poles.
above: The PortaCAT in action, a quick and inexpensive way of determining the safe service life of power poles and wooden beams. This device has the potential to save millions of dollars spent in routine replacement with an accurate assessment of the service life of the pole or beam.
Portable technology for measuring timber strength …
The Isotope Applications section has developed a portable instrument that produces cross sectional images of power poles, wooden bridges and beams to help determine their strength.
Called PortaCAT, the instrument is lightweight, combining precision engineering and advanced electronics.
PortaCAT has been used in New Zealand to test the strength of historic wooden bridges and other wooden structures. It is also being evaluated in Australia where there are 12 million wooden power poles of varying ages. Traditionally maintenance of power poles has often meant replacement. escalating costs have lead to a better appreciation of the lifespan and value of wooden poles. However, deferring replacement means there must be assurances that old or defective poles still have enough strength to continue service.
PortaCAt provides answers quickly and inexpensively. It operates by scanning an x-ray beam to produce images of the timber beam or pole that enables easy detection of internal defects.
This versatile non-destructive technology has proved to be an efficient and cost effective means of evaluating the strength of timber. …
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