Method and device for remotely monitoring manual valves of fluid systems in the nuclear island of a nuclear power station

A method for remotely monitoring manual valves of fluid systems in the nuclear island of a power station during its operation or periods of shutdown, the manual valves being able to be moved manually between an open and a closed position, the method comprising the following steps:

• providing the manual valves with a detector for detecting the open or closed position and a first communication device for wireless communication of signals relating to the open or closed position of each of the manual valves;
• arranging a second communication device in a first location surrounding the manual valves, the second communication device for communicating the signals transmitted by the first communication device;
• arranging local cable, at least in part, in a second location outside of the first location, the local cable allowing the signals received by the second communication device to pass through thick walls impermeable with respect to the signals transmitted in a wireless manner;
• and
• arranging a processor at a monitoring location outside the first and second locations, the processor for receiving and processing the signals after the signals have passed through the walls.

A device for remotely monitoring manual valves of fluid systems in the nuclear island of a power station during its operation or periods of shutdown, the manual valves being able to be moved manually between an open or a closed position, the device comprising:

• a detector for detecting the open or the closed position of the manual valves and a first communication device for wireless communication of signals relating to the open or the closed position of each of the manual valves;
• a second communication device for communicating the signals transmitted by the first communication device, the second communication device being in a location corresponding to the manual valves;
• local cable allowing the signals received by the second communication device to pass through thick walls impermeable with respect to the signals transmitted in a wireless manner;
• and
• a processor for receiving and processing the signals after passing through the walls.