Rosatom and Mendeleev Institute Develop “Smart” Sensors for Nuclear Power Plants
Rosatom and the Mendeleev Institute are developing self-monitoring “smart” sensors designed to enhance the accuracy, reliability, and safety of nuclear power plant operations — part of Russia’s broader push to digitalize its nuclear industry.
Why Precision Matters
Modern automated control systems at nuclear plants collect thousands of signals every second: temperature, pressure, water flow, equipment vibration levels. The safety and efficiency of the entire facility depend on the precision of these readings.
In this alliance of theory and practice, the Mendeleev Institute of Metrology (VNIIM) provides standards and measurement benchmarks, while Rosatom Automated Control Systems (RASU) is responsible for practical implementation. Now they are joining forces to bring laboratory-grade accuracy into real industrial operations.
The main focus of the collaboration is next-generation sensors. These devices will not only record data but also analyze their own performance: warning of malfunctions, signaling when calibration is needed, and even switching to safe mode if something goes wrong. Such autonomy will help eliminate human error and enhance overall system reliability.
Another key step is the introduction of remote calibration technologies. Accuracy checks will be carried out without shutting down equipment — a critical advantage for nuclear plants, where every hour of downtime carries high costs.
Smart sensors are becoming central to nuclear plant modernization efforts worldwide, as operators seek to improve predictive maintenance, reduce downtime, and minimize human error.
Building the Framework
Technological solutions cannot be implemented without a clear regulatory framework. Alongside sensor development, experts will create new standards: defining how smart devices are to be calibrated, what requirements should apply to their software, and how to protect data against tampering.
Special attention will be paid to training. New educational programs for metrologists and engineers will focus on working with intelligent systems and integrating them into existing industrial processes.
Key challenges include compatibility with legacy systems, securing metrological data channels, and preparing specialists with new digital skill sets. These will be addressed through standardized interfaces, built-in cryptographic protection, and training programs tailored for the digital environment.
From Pilot to Wider Deployment
The solutions will first be deployed at Rosatom nuclear power plants and industrial sites, and later rolled out to other sectors where accuracy and continuity are critical — such as chemicals and mechanical engineering. Standardization of instruments and protocols will also facilitate exports of complete solutions bundled with service and support.
The partnership between Rosatom and VNIIM marks an important step in advancing Russia’s digital industry. In the coming years, enterprises will see instruments functioning as integral parts of control systems, boosting safety to an entirely new level.
