APPLICATIONS OF NUCLEAR METHODS IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

Over the years nuclear methods have proved to be a valuable asset to i ndustry in general and to the automotive industry in particular. This paper summarizes some of the most important recent contributions of nu clear technology to the development of vehicles having high quality an d long-term durability. Radiotracer methods are used to measure engine oil consumption and the wear rates of inaccessible components. Radiog raphic and tomographic methods are used to image fluids and structures in engines and accessory components. Tracers are used to understand c ombustion chemistry and quantify fluid flow. Gauging methods are used for inspection and process control. Nuclear analytical methods are use d routinely for materials characterization and problem solving. Althou gh nuclear methods are usually considered as the means of last resort, they can often be applied more easily and quickly than conventional m ethods when those in industrial engineering and R&D are aware of their unique capabilities.