Knoxville’s AMS Receives $1 Million DOE Grant for Groundbreaking Microreactor Monitoring Technology

KNOXVILLE – A New Spark in Energy Innovation

Exciting news is buzzing around Knoxville as the Analysis and Measurement Services Corporation (AMS) has been awarded a remarkable grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). This grant is part of a large funding initiative, with a whopping amount of $142 million set aside to bolster advancements in clean energy technology across the country. Out of 123 businesses across 34 states vying for these funds, AMS stands out as one of the only four recipients from Tennessee!

Over a Million Reasons to Celebrate

AMS is set to receive over one million dollars to enhance its cutting-edge online monitoring (OLM) system, specifically tailored for modern microreactors. Now, you might be wondering, what are microreactors? These are factory-made, portable nuclear reactors designed to produce electricity and thermal energy. They are especially useful for providing power in remote or off-grid locations where traditional energy sources may not reach.

The Importance of Advanced Monitoring

As these microreactors can operate autonomously with minimal personnel on site, having a reliable and automated monitoring system is absolutely vital. AMS’s OLM technologies incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to continuously verify the performance of critical sensors and processes within these reactors. This isn’t just about improving efficiency—it’s about ensuring safety, a top priority in the nuclear industry.

Brent Shumaker, AMS’s Senior Engineering Manager and the Principal Investigator for this exciting project, shared his enthusiasm: “We are excited for the opportunity to apply our OLM technologies to microreactors and other advanced reactor designs. We are making a great impact with these technologies in the existing nuclear fleet, and we look forward to tackling the challenges to bring OLM into new nuclear reactor markets. We’ve got a great team here at AMS, and we can’t wait to get started.”

Importance for the Future

The project doesn’t just aim to bolster the domestic nuclear sector. It positions American microreactor technologies for potential global export, ensuring that the United States remains competitive in the international energy market. The infusion of AI technologies is expected to enhance maintenance, diagnostics, and long-term asset management, leading to more sustainable outcomes in nuclear energy production.

Dr. H.M. (Hash) Hashemian, the President and CEO of AMS, expressed his thoughts on this significant achievement as well: “This DOE grant is a testament to the innovative work our team has been doing in advancing online monitoring technologies. Our OLM systems will play a critical role in ensuring that nuclear reactors operate safely and efficiently, furthering the global transition to a low-carbon energy economy.”

AMS: A Pioneer in Nuclear Engineering

For those unfamiliar, AMS is a global nuclear engineering firm, proudly headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee. The company has had a global reach, with representatives in locations such as Austria, China, France, South Korea, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Since its beginning back in 1977, AMS has dedicated itself to providing the nuclear industry with top-tier products and services, ensuring everything from performance measurement to compliance with regulatory standards.

AMS isn’t just about making waves in the local scene; they’re in the business of pioneering advancements in technology. They specialize in developing measurement systems, conducting laboratory testing, offering technical training, and partnering with national and international organizations to lead groundbreaking research and development projects. Their commitment to the nuclear industry and the advancement of clean energy is truly inspiring.

Looking Ahead

With the blessing of this significant grant, AMS is poised to make major strides in the nuclear sector, driving innovation and ensuring safety in the energy realm. As Knoxville and the nation at large look to the future of clean energy, the progress of AMS will undoubtedly play an essential role in shaping a sustainable tomorrow.