It was discovered on 1/18/16, that an accumulation of
uranium oxide existed that indicated a degradation of an
IROFS [Item Relied On For Safety] in the dry scrap recycle furnace off-gas system. Approximately 42 kg of
uranium oxide powder was removed from the favorable geometry off-gas dropout. The degraded
IROFS resulted in a failure to meet performance requirements in the event of a fire. The dry scrap recycle operation had been shut down on 1/14/16 and was not in operation at the time.
Additional controls on combustibles, geometry and moderation remained intact and at no time was an unsafe condition present.
Additional corrective actions, extent of condition, and extent of cause are being investigated.
This event is being communicated to meet the reporting requirements of 10CFR70, Appendix A(b)(2).
The licensee will inform State and local agencies and NRC Region II.