RS-11-100, Dresden, Units 2 and 3, Updated Final Safety Analysis Report (Ufsar), Revision 9, Chapter 7.0, Instrumentation and Controls
ML11202A186 | |
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Site: | Dresden |
Issue date: | 06/29/2011 |
From: | Exelon Generation Co, Exelon Nuclear |
To: | NRC/FSME |
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RS-11-100 | |
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DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.1-1 7.0 INSTRUMENTATION AND CONTROLS This chapter presents various plant instrumentatio n and control systems including functions, design bases, system descriptions, design evaluations, and tests and inspections. The information provided in this chapter emphasizes instruments and associated equipment which constitute reactor protection and regulation systems. Particular attention is given to the instrumentation aspects of process systems, with the mechanical and nuclear design bases presented in the chapters or sections which address the respective process system. Chapter 7 includes a discussion of the instrumentation and controls for systems of major safety significance and those that provide reactor and turbine control. Discussions of instrumentation and controls for other systems are contained within the sections that address those systems.
7.1 INTRODUCTION
The equipment and evaluations presented in this chapter are applicable to either unit. Instrumentation and controls are provided to perform protective and regulating functions.
Protective systems, consisting of the reactor protective circuitry and the instrumentation and controls for engineered safety features (ESFs), normally perform the most important of the instrumentation and control safety functions.
The regulating instrumentation and controls provide the ability to regulate the unit from shutdown to full power and to monitor and maintain key unit variables, such as reactor power, flow, pressure, level, temperature, and radioactivity levels, within predetermined limits during both steady-state operation and normal unit transients.
The inputs to the protective and regulating controls are provided by a diversity of instruments. The following sections in this chapter provide descriptions of instrumentation and major components, evaluations of the instrumentation input adequacy, and analyses from both functional and reliability viewpoints.
Analytical Limits are those values assumed in calculations and evaluations, which show that plant operation is safe during postulated transients and accidents. These values are found in calculations of record and design/licen se basis evaluations.
Allowable Values are selected to be conservative to the Analytical Limits due to the effects on the instrumentation from the accident or transient conditions, which are not present during instrument calibration. Allowable Values are specified in the Technical Specifications and apply to the applicable instrument function.
Protective and regulating function trip setpoints are specified in setpoint calculations. The setpoints and their associated tolerances are selected to ensure that with a high degree of probability the setpoint does not exceed the Allowable Value between successive CHANNEL CALIBRATIONS. Operation with a trip setpoint less conservative than the setpoint, but within the Allowable Value is acceptable. An instrument CHANNEL is inoperable when its actual trip setpoint is not within its Allowable Value.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.1-1a Some Technical Specifications delineate Allowable Values associated with Reactor Water Level. These Allowable Values are referenced to Instrument Zero. Instrument Zero is 503 inches above Vessel Zero, or 143 inches above Top of Active Fuel (TAF). Top of Active Fuel (TAF) is 360 inches above Vessel Zero.
7.1.1 Identification of Systems
Section 3.2 discusses the identification of safety-related instrumentation and control systems and equipment. The engineered safety features for Dresden are identified in Section 6.0.
7.1.1.1 Protective Systems
Protective systems include electrical and mechanical devices and circuitry required to initiate shutdown of the reactor and mitigate the consequences of accidents when required. These systems include:
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.1-2 A. The reactor protection system (RPS) which acts to trip the reactor when parameters exceed preset limits (RPS is described in Section 7.2);
B. The anticipated transient without scram (ATWS) system which trips the recirculation pumps and provides an alternate method to insert control rods in the unlikely event that the RPS fails to do so (ATWS mitigation is described in Section 7.8); and
C. ESF instrumentation and controls for emergency core cooling and containment isolation functions which are addressed in Section 7.3 (other ESF systems are discussed in Section 6.0):
- a. Core spray,
- b. Low pressure coolant injection (LPCI), c. High pressure coolant injection (HPCI), and
- d. Automatic depre ssurization system (ADS).
- 2. Containment isolation systems:
- a. Primary containment isolation system (PCIS) and
- b. Secondary containment isolation.
- 3. Isolation condenser.
7.1.1.2 Safe Shutdown Section 7.4 includes a discussion of the containment cooling mode of LPCI and reactor shutdown from outside the control room.
7.1.1.3 Display Instrumentation
Display instrumentation provides information used by the operator for normal operation and safe shutdown of the unit, including monitoring of post-accident conditions. Compliance with Regulatory Guide 1.97, the safety parameter display system (SPDS), and the process computer are discussed in Section 7.5. A summary of the detailed control room design review (DCRDR) is also provided in Section 7.5.
7.1.1.4 Core and Vessel Instrumentation
Section 7.6 describes additional instrumentation which provides both safety and nonsafety functions and which includes nuclear instrumentation and reactor vessel instrumentation.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.1-3 7.1.1.5 Other Instrumentation Reactor and turbine generator instrumentation and controls not essential to the safety of the plant are discussed in Section 7.7.
7.1.2 Identification of Safety Criteria The design bases for the instrumentation and control systems include the safety criteria pertinent to each of the systems described. The design basis for each of the systems is presented in the section which discusses the system. The technical basis for the various protective functions is provided with the description of the protective system. A general discussion of Regulatory Guide compliance is provided in Section 1.8.
General Electric Company has reviewed the plant design to determine if th e safety systems conform to IEEE 279-1968. IEEE 279-1968 was the proposed industry criteria for nuclear power plant protection systems, published August 1968. Specific compliance with IEEE 279-1968 is addressed with the system description.
7.1.2.1 Single-Failure Criteria The compliance of the reactor protection and emergency core cooling systems with and the justification for all exceptions to IEEE 279-1968, Proposed Criteria for Nuclear Power Plant Protection Systems, are contained in NEDO-10139, "Compliance of Protection Systems to Industry Criteria: General Electric BWR Nuclear Steam Supply System." Compliance of the protection systems is presented in the sections providing the system details. These systems typically employ logic systems to accommodate single failures without jeopardizing functionality, such as one-out-of-
two-twice.
7.1.2.2 Separation Requirements
The Dresden Plant Design predates the issuance of Regulatory Guide 1.75 and IEEE 384. Therefore, the original design does not fully conform to that guidance. However, as modifications are incorporated into the plant design, whenever practical, separation between 1E and non-1E loads will be provided in accordance with the current philosophy as stated in Regulatory Guide 1.75. One way to fulfill this requirement is to use two breakers in series between nonsafety loads and safety-related power supplies. When new systems are installed they are in accordan ce with current standards (e.g., IEEE 384) where practical. A discussion of Regulatory Guide 1.97 Category A variable separation is in Section 7.5. Additional description of separation requirements is contained in Section 8.3.1 DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.1-4 7.1.2.3 Qualification The qualification of instrumentation and controls is further described in Sections 3.10 and 3.11.
Additional discussion of display instrumentation qualification for Regulatory Guide 1.97 Category 1 variables is in Section 7.5.
7.1.3 Other Control and Instrumentation Controls and instrumentation for the following auxiliary and emergency systems are described in the
sections that des cribe the systems: System Section A. Reactor building heating, ventilation, and cooling system 9.4.5 B. Reactor water cleanup system 5.4.8 C. Fire protection system 9.5.1 D. Service water system 9.2.2 E. Demineralized water makeup system 9.2.4 F. Service and instrument air systems 9.3.1 G. Communications systems 9.5.2 H. Spent fuel pool cooling and cleanup system 9.1.3 I. Reactor shutdown cooling system 5.4.7 J. Standby liquid control system 9.3.5 K. Fuel handling system 9.1.4 L. High radiation sampling system 9.3.2
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-1 7.3 ENGINEERED SAFETY FEATURE SYSTEMS INSTRUMENTATION AND CONTROL The engineered safety features (ESF) systems are provided to mitigate the consequences of postulated accidents and transients. The ESF system s described in this section are not used during normal plant operations. These systems must, however, be operable as defined in the Technical Specifications. Refer to Section 6.0 for a complete listing of ESF systems.
The ESF systems addressed in this section are as follows:
A. Emergency core cooling systems (ECCS):
- 1. Core spray system,
- 2. Low pressure coolant injection (LPCI) system, 3. High pressure coolant injection (HPCI) system, and
- 4. Automatic depressu rization system (ADS).
B. Containment isolation systems:
- 1. Primary containment isolation system (PCIS), and
- 2. Secondary containment isolation.
C. Isolation condenser.
7.3.1 Emergency Core Cooling Systems Instrumentation and Control This section describes the instrumentation and controls used to automatically and manually operate the ECCS. Refer to Section 6.3 for ECCS design basis and description.
Analytical Limits are those values assumed in calculation and evaluations, which show that plant operation is safe during postulated transients and accidents. These values are found in calculations of record and design/license basis evaluations.
Allowable Values are selected to be conservative to the Analytical Limits due to the effects on the instrumentation from the accident or transient conditions, which are not present during instrument calibration. Allowable Values are specified in the Technical Specifications and apply to the applicable instrument function.
Protective and regulating function trip setpoints are specified in setpoint calculations. The setpoint and their associated tolerances are selected to ensure that with a high degree of probability the setpoint does not exceed the Allowable Value between successive CHANNEL CALIBRATIONS. Operation with a trip setpoint less conservative than the setpoint, but within the Allowable Value is acceptable. An instrument CHANNEL is inoperable when its actual trip setpoint is not within its Allowable Value.
Some Technical Specifications delineate Allowable Values associated with Reactor Water Level. These Allowable Values are referenced to Instrument Zero. Instrument Zero is 503 inches above Vessel Zero, or 143 inches above Top of Active Fuel (TAF). Top of Active Fuel (TAF) is 360 inches above Vessel Zero.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-1a 7.3.1.1 Core Spray System Instrumentation and Control Two independent core spray loops are designed to pump water, under accident conditions, from the pressure suppression ch amber pool directly to the reactor core.
The control system is arranged to provide redundancy for the two independent and separately isolated control and power circuits for operation of either of the two independent core spray subsystems (refer to Figure 7.3-1).
The core spray subsystems are automatically actuated by signals from the following sensors:
A. Four independent high drywell pressure switches; DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 2 7.3-2 B. Four independent low-low reactor water level transmitters and trip units; and C. Two independent low reactor pressure switches.
The core spray initiation signal requires one of the following logic combinations:
A. High drywell pressure (one-out-of-two-twice);
B. Low-low reactor water level (one-out-of-two-twice) coincident with low reactor pressure (one-out-of-two); or
C. Low-low reactor level (one-out-of-two-twice) sustained for 8.5 minutes (one-out-of-one). This signal is generated by the ADS system logic.
The core spray initiation signal starts the core spray pumps, opens the suction valves (if closed) and closes the test bypass valves (if open). The operator can, in the event of a system line break, override the automatic opening of the suction valves and close them.
Opening of the admission valves is accomplished only after the reactor pressure decays to approximately the design discharge pressure of the pump. The reactor low pressure is detected by two pressure switches connected in a one-out-of-two logic array. The permissive signal which opens the core spray admission (discharge) valves requires this low reactor pressure signal and voltage at the applicable 4160-V ESF bus in addition to the core spray initiation signal.
With normal auxiliary ac power available, the actions described above occur automatically and without delay. A diesel generator start signal is generated by either a low-low reactor water level signal or high drywell pressure signal (both one-out-of-two-twice logic). If normal power is not available, the pumps are started sequentially as described in Sections 6.3 and 8.3.
While the pump is running but prior to the admission valve opening, flow is through minimum flow valves which automatically close when flow to the reactor vessel is established. The minimum flow valves are interlocked with the pump breakers such that stopping the core spray pump or placing the pump control switch in the PULL-TO-LOCK position allows the minimum flow valve to be positioned in either the open or closed position using its control switch. The minimum flow valves are provided with logic which allows the operator to close the valves from the control room even with a core spray initiation signal present. This logic allows the minimum flow valves to be closed to perform their closed loop isolation function as required by General Design Criteria (GDC) 57.
[1]
7.3.1.1.1 Conformance to IEEE 279-1968
The following subsections present a point-by-point comparison of the core spray system with the requirements of proposed IEEE 279-1968 which has been summarized from GE Topical Report, NEDO-10139.
[2] For more detailed information, refer to the topical report.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.3-3 7.3.1.1.1.1 General Functional Requirement The general functional requirements of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.1, and the provision of the core spray system to fulfill these requirements are summarized below:
A. Auto-initiation of appropriate action - Appropriate action for the core spray control system is defined as the activation of equipment for introducing low-pressure water through the core spray sparger when reactor water level drops below a predetermined point or the drywell pressure increases above a predetermined value, and the vessel pressure is below a predetermined value which is lower than the pump shutoff head. Equipment activation occurs automatically.
B. Precision - The sensory equipment positively initiates action before process variables exceed precisely established limits. In the case of vessel level sensors, high drywell ambient temperature can introduce errors that would lower the trip point for starting of the core spray pumps. Errors that result from drywell temperatures which are less than the temperature associated with a high drywell pressure trip are not large enough to be objectionable from a safety po int of view. This discussion also applies to the LPCI system.
C. Reliability - The reliability of the control system is compatible with the controlled equipment so that the overall system reliability is not limited by the controls.
D. Action over the full range of environmental conditions - Refer to Section 3.11 for information on the current environmental qualification program. Specific environmental requirements evaluated for IEEE 279-1968 compliance include power supply voltage and frequency, temperature, humidity, pressure, vibration, malfunctions, accidents, fires, explosions, missiles, lightning, floods, earthquakes, high winds and tornados, system response time and accuracies, and abnormal ranges of sensed variables. This discussion also applies to the LPCI system.
The core spray system, as designed, complies with all points of Paragraph 4.1 of IEEE 279-1968, except for explosion, which is not defined in the design bases.
7.3.1.1.1.2 Single-Failure Criterion
The core spray system, which is comprised of two independent sets of controls for the two physically separate pumping systems, meets all credible aspects of the single-failure criterion (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.2).
7.3.1.1.1.3 Quality of Components
Components used in the core spray control system have been carefully selected on the basis of suitability for their specific application. All of the sensors and logic DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.3-4 relays are of the same types used in the reactor protection system (RPS) described in Section 7.2. Ratings have been selected with sufficient conservatism to insure against significant deterioration during anticipated duty over the lifetime of the plant (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.3).
7.3.1.1.1.4 Equipment Qualification
No components of the core spray or LPCI control system are required to operate in the drywell environment except for a portion of the reference legs for the vessel level transmitter. Dresden emergency operating procedures provide guidance and limitations on the level instruments during elevated drywell temperature. All sensory equipment is located in the reactor building outside the drywell and is capable of accurate operation even with wider swings in ambient temperature than those which result from normal or abnormal conditions (loss of ventilation and loss-of-coolant accident [LOCA]). The reactor vessel level sensors also provide input to the ATWS and are environmentally qualified.
All components used in the core spray control system have demonstrated reliable operation in similar nuclear power plant protection systems or industrial applications (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.4).
7.3.1.1.1.5 Channel Integrity The core spray control system is designed to tolerate the spectrum of failures listed under general requirements (Section 7.3.1.1.1.1) and the single-failure criterion (Section 7.3.1.1.1.2); therefore, it satisfies the channel integrity objectives (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.5). Each of the two core
spray loop sensors are backed up by sensors from the other loop so that neither system loses its integrity due to a failure or failures in its sensory equipment.
The core spray system control backup has been achieved without compromising the integrity of the channel being backed up. Analysis shows that complete destruction of a wireway (conduit) carrying wires between the two relay cabinets cannot prevent operation of both core spray loops. During a design basis accident, the control system environment does not differ significantly from normal.
7.3.1.1.1.6 Channel Independence Channel independence of the sensors for each variable is provided by electrical isolation and mechanical separation (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.6). The A and C transmitters for the reactor vessel level are located on separate local instrument racks (identified as Division I equipment), and the B and D transmitters for reactor vessel level are located on separate local instrument racks (identified as Division II equipment) widely separated from the A and C local instrument racks. The A and C sensors have a common process tap which is widely separated from the corresponding tap for sensors B and D. Disabling of one or both sensors DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.3-5 at one location does not disable the control for either of the two core spray loops or two separate divisions of LPCI.
Relay cabinets for core spray system A are in a separate physical division from those for core spray system B. Likewise, relay cabinets for LPCI Division I are in a separate physical division from those for LPCI Division II. Each division is complete in itself, having its own station battery control, power distribution buses, and motor control centers. The divisional split is carried all the way from the process taps to the final control element. The split includes both control and motive power supplies.
7.3.1.1.1.7 Control and Protection Interaction The core spray and LPCI systems are strictly on/off systems, and no signal whose failure could cause a need for core spray or LPCI can also prevent them from starting (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.7). Annunciator circuits using contacts of sensor relays and logic relays cannot impair the operability of system control due to the electrical separation between controls of the two core spray loops or the two LPCI divisions.
7.3.1.1.1.8 Derivation of System Inputs The inputs which start the core spray and LPCI systems are direct measures of the variables that indicate the need for low pressure core cooling; reactor vessel low water, high drywell pressure, and reactor low pressure (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.8). Reactor vessel level is sensed by vessel water level transmitters. Drywell high pressure is sensed by nonindicating pressure switches on four separate sensing lines connected to two separate penetrations. Each sensing line has its own root valve, and each pressure switch has its own instrument valve. Two reactor vessel pressure switches for the low-pressure injection valve opening permissive are on two separate instrument lines going through the drywell at two different locations (the A line in one location and the B line in a separate location). The reactor vessel pressure switches operate relays whose contacts are connected in A and B logic for the core spray and LPCI valve opening permissives.
7.3.1.1.1.9 Capability for Sensor Checks All sensors are pressure-sensing-type sensors and are installed with calibration taps and instrument valves to permit testing during normal plant operation or during shutdown (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.9). This discussion also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.1.1.10 Capability for Test and Calibration
The core spray and LPCI control systems are capable of being completely tested during normal plant operation to verify that each element of the system, active or DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.3-6 passive, is capable of performing its intended function (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.10).
7.3.1.1.1.11 Channel Bypass or Removal from Operation Calibration of any sensor introduces a single instrument channel trip. This trip does not cause a protective function without coincident operation of a second channel. Removal of an instrument channel from service during calibration is brief and in compliance with a special provision of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.11, for one-out-of-two-twice systems. This discussi on also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.1.1.12 Operating Bypasses Manual Bypass Access to switchgear, motor control centers and instrument valves is controlled as discussed in Section 7.3.1.1.1.14. Access to other means of bypassing are in the main control room and therefore under the direct supervision of the control room operator (IEEE279-1968, Paragraph 4.12). For example, the core spray (CS) pumps can be prevented from automatically starting upon a CS initiation signal if both of the main control board CS pump control switches are placed in the "Pull to Lock" position.
Automatic Bypasses None.
7.3.1.1.1.13 Indication of Bypasses
There are no automatic bypasses of any part of the core spray or LPCI cont rol systems, but manual bypassing of high drywell pressure inputs is permitted in order to purge the drywell as required. This bypass is annunciated (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.13). Deliberate opening of a valve motor breaker gives indication in the control room because both valve position lights would be deenergized.
7.3.1.1.1.14 Access to Means for Bypassing
Access to switchgear, motor control centers, and instrument valves is procedurally controlled. This discussion also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.1.1.15 Multiple Trip Settings
Paragraph 4.15 of IEEE 279-1968, which deals with multiple trip settings, is not applicable because all setpoints are unique.
7.3.1.1.1.16 Completion of Protection Action Once Initiated The final control elements for the core spray system are essentially bistable; that is, pump breakers stay closed without control power, and motor-operated valves stay open once they have reached their open position, even though the motor starter drops out when the valve open limit switch is reached. In the event of an interruption in ac power, the control system will reset itself and recycle on DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.3-7 restoration of power. Thus, protective action once initiated must go to completion or continue until terminated by deliberate operator action (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.16). This discussion also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.1.1.17 Manual Actuation
Each piece of core spray actuation equipment (pump, valve, breaker, or starter) is capable of individual manual initiation, electrically from the control panel in the main control room and locally, if desired, by use of physical mechanisms (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.17). The valves have handwheels for manual operation, and the switchgear is capable of havi ng the closing springs charged manually and the breaker closed by mechanical linkages on the switchgear.
In no event can failure of an automatic control circuit for one core spray loop disable the manual electrical control circuit for the other core spray loop. Single electrical failures cannot disable manual electric control of the core spray function.
7.3.1.1.1.18 Access to Setpoint Adjustments
Setpoint adjustments for the core spray and LPCI system reactor level signals are located on the slave trip units in the ATWS cabinets. A card file locking bar prevents unauthorized access to the setpoint adjustments. Test points are incorporated into the control relay cabinets which are located in limited access areas. The range of the drywell and reactor vessel pressure switches is not adjustable. The reactor vessel level transmitters have zero and span adjustments that are external to the transmitters but require removal of the nameplate. Because of these restrictions, compliance with the access requirements of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.18, is considered complete.
7.3.1.1.1.19 Identification of Protective Actions Protective actions (Here interpreted to mean an action initiated by the protection system when a limit is exceeded) are directly indicated and identified by action of the sensor relay, which has an identification tag. Any one of the sensor relays actuates an annunciator, so no single-channel trip (relay pickup) can go unnoticed. This verification of relay actuation fulfills the requirements of IEEE 270-1968, Paragraph 4.19. This discussion also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.1.1.20 Information Readout
The core spray and LPCI control systems are designed to provide the operator with accurate and timely information pertinent to its status. It does not introduce signals into other systems that could cause anomalous indications confusing to the DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.3-8 operator. There are many elements, both active and passive, of this energize-to-operate system which are not continuously monitored for operability. Two examples are: 1) circuits which are normally open and are not monitored for continuity on a continuous basis, and 2) pressure and level sensors, which although continuously active, are not continuously exercised and verified as operable. Verifying the operability of these components is accomplished by periodic testing and by proper selection of test periods to be compatible with the historically established reliability of the components tested. Sufficient information is provided on a continuous basis so that the operator can have a high degree of confidence that the core spray function is available and operating properly (IEEE 279-1968, paragraph 4.20).
7.3.1.1.1.21 System Repair
The core spray and LPCI control systems are designed to avoid a need for repair rather than to accommodate quick replacement of components. Thus, reliability is built-in rather than approached by rapid return-to-service maintenance (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.21). All devices in the system are designed for a 40-year lifetime under the imposed duty cycles. Since this duty cycle is composed mainly of periodic testing rather than operation, lifetime is more a matter of shelf life than active life. However, all components are selected for continuous duty plus thousands of cycles of operation, far beyond the usage anticipated in actual service. The pump breakers are an exception because they do not support the same large number of operating cycles. Nevertheless, even these breakers should not require contact replacement within 40 years, assuming periodic pump starts every 3 months.
7.3.1.1.2 Failure Mode and Effects Summary
No single component, cable, wireway, or cabinet failure can disable the core spray function. Therefore, the core spray system is considered to have fully met the single-failure criterion of IEEE 279-1968.
7.3.1.2 Low Pressure Coolant Injection Instrumentation and Control 7.3.1.2.1 Low Pressure Coolant Injection Initiation and Interlocks
The low pressure coolant injection system can be operated in two modes: LPCI injection and containment cooling. The LPCI mode instrumentation and controls are described in this section while the remainder of the LPCI mode is described in Section 6.3. Containment cooling is addressed in Section 6.2.2, and its logic is described in Section 7.4.
In general, LPCI operation involves restoring and maintaining sufficient reactor vessel water level for adequate core cooling after a LOCA. The LPCI logic system operates in conjunction with HPCI, ADS, and core spray logic.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-9 The LPCI system is automatically actuated by the same signals and trip lo gic as described for the core spray system. These signals are generated by the following sensors:
A. Four independent high drywell pressure switches; B. Four independent low-low reactor water level transmitters and trip units; and
C. Two independent low reactor pressure switches.
The LPCI initiation signal requires one of the following logic conditions:
A. High drywell pressure (one-out-of-two-twice).
B. Low-low reactor level (one-out-of-two-twice) coincident with low reactor pressure (one-out-of-two); or
C. Low-low reactor level actuation (one-out-of-two-twice) sustained for a time not to exceed the Technical Specification of 580 seconds (one-out-of-one). This signal is generated by the ADS system logic.
Figures 7.3-2A and 7.3-2B are functional control diagrams that show various interlocks in the LPCI subsystem.
Upon receipt of an initiation signal with normal ac power available, the following actions occur:
A. Diesel generators start;
B. Permissives become available to activate pumps and valves; C. All four LPCI pumps start and run on minimum flow until loop selection is made; D. Pump suction valves open (if closed), valves interlock in the open position; E. Containment cooling service water pumps stop (if running) and containment cooling heat exchanger service water outlet valves close; and
F. Necessary valves close or open (as needed) to establish the full LPCI flow. (Injection valves do not open until reactor low pressure interlock has cleared.)
The operator can, in the event of a system line break, override the automatic opening of the suction valves and close them.
If normal ac power is not available, pumps are started sequentially once the diesel generators accelerate to operating speed. See Sections 6.3 and 8.3 for additional information.
The injection valves are opened on a preset reactor low-pressure signal. The valve operation is similar to that of the valving on the core spray system. Once the injection valves open, the operator can bypass the 5-minute timer interlock logic to re-close the valves to control LPCI injection (see Figure 7.3-3). This will allow the control of reactor water level for those transients and accidents that do not require core re-flooding.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 6 June 2005 7.3-10 Each LPCI loop has a minimum flow valve that opens (if closed) on pump start but prior to injection valve opening and automatically closes when sufficient cooling flow is established. The valve control is based on flow through its associated loop. The LPCI minimum flow valves are interlocked with the LPCI pump breakers. By stopping or placing the LPCI pump control switch for a given loop in the PULL-TO-LOCK position, the associated minimum flow valve may be positioned in either the open or closed position by operation of its control switch even with an accident signal present. If the LPCI pump starts, the minimum flow valve will operate properly to provide a minimum flow path as required. Logic is provided which allows the LPCI pump minimum flow valves to be maintained closed from the control room to perform their closed loop isolation function as required by General Design Criteria (GDC) 57.
[1] Figure 7.3-4 is a functional control diagram for the minimum flow valve.
Interlocks are provided to prevent the diversion of LPCI injection flow, if any initiating signal is present, to ensure the flooding of the core (see Section 7.4).
For the injection 1501-22A or 150-22B, the operator can override automatic logic to re-close the valve or maintain the valve close to control LPCI injection (see Figure 7.3-2A). This will allow the control of reactor water level for those transients and accidents that do not require core re-flooding.
7.3.1.2.2 Loop Selection Logic
The loop selection logic ensures that LPCI injection flow is directed to an unbroken recirculation pump loop. The operation of the logic depends on the number of operating recirculation pumps and the break location. The basic loop selection logic sequence initiated by either high drywell pressure or low-low water level is as follows (see Figure 7.3-5):
A. If either or both recirculation pump is not running, the pumping mo de selector section of the logic trips both recirculation pumps and waits for reactor pressure to decrease to a meaningful differential pressure measurement (Analytical Limit: 900 to 800 psig).
B. A time delay imposes a wait for momentum effects to establish the maximum differential pressure for loop selection (Allowable Value: 2.12 seconds).
C. Four differential pressure detectors compare the pressure between riser pipes in loop A and the corresponding riser pipes in loop B. The loop selection instrumentation is shown in Figures 7.3-6 (Unit 2) and 7.3-7 (Unit 3).
D. If the loop A pressure is greater than the loop B pressure, the logic selects loop A for injection.
E. If the loop A pressure is not greater than the loop B pressure (recirculation loop A is broken or neither recirculation loop is broken), a timer runs out causing loop B to be selected for injection (Allowable Value: 0.53 seconds).
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 6 June 2005 7.3-11 F. The logic seals in the loop selection and sends a close signal to the recirculation pump discharge valve and its suction valve for the selected loop and to the LPCI injection valve for the other loop.
G. Upon receipt of the preset reactor low-pressure signal, previously described, the selected injection valve opens. Also, as previously de scribed, once the injection valves open, the operator can bypass the 5-minute timer interlock logic to re-close the valves to control LPCI injection (see Figure 7.3-3).
Also, as previously described, for the injection valve 1501-22A or 1501-22B, the operator can override the automatic logic to re-close or maintain the valve close to control LPCI inject ion (see Figure 7.3-2A).
The pumping mode selector logic uses dP instruments which measure recirculation pump P to determine the number of recirculation pumps running. The taps for these instruments are as close to the pump suction and discharge as practical. The trip setting is approximately +2 psid. The trip point should be repeatable within 0.2 psid. Only positive P measurement is necessary.
If both recirculation pumps are running, the P across both pumps will indicate greater than 2 psid. With both pumps running, the pumps will amplify the break detection P (provide the greatest break detection sensitivity); therefore, the "two pump" side of the logic is used to allow measurement of the break detection P with the recirculation pumps running.
If the P across either or both pumps is less than 2 psid, the timer runs out causing the network to proceed on the "one pump" side of the network (Allowable Value: 0.53 seconds).
Seal-ins on the "one pump" or "two pump" sides are required to ensure that the pump coastdown or resumption of ac power does not result in changes in the networ k arrangement later.
If only one recirculation pump is operating, the recirculation pump trip provided by the pumping mode selector is required to allow detection of small breaks. Circuitry on the "one pump" side of the network provides a trip signal to both recirculati on pumps unless both pumps are running.
A reactor vessel pressure permissive will delay the loop selection logic initiation until reactor pressure has dropped to between the Analytical Limits of 800 and 900 psig to allow for coast down of any recirculation pump which has just been tripped. This setpoint optimizes sensitivity while ensuring that injection is not delayed unnecessarily. The trip point is adjustable over a range of reactor pressure from 500 to 1000 psig. This trip point should be repeatable within 10 psig.
After satisfying the pressure permissive or verifying that both pumps are running (indicated by P greater than 2 psi), the network must wait before loop selection (Allowable Value: 2.12 seconds). [HISTORICAL: The timer is adjustable from a 0- to 10-second delay.]
The delay in the break detection circuit is provided to allow time for momentum effects to establish the maximum pressure differential for break detection. Since the flow decay time constant of the fluid in one recirculation loop (excluding the pump and motor-generator [MG] set) is about 1-second, an approximately 2-second delay will assure that the momentum effects have established the maximum pressure differential for loop selection.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-11a If loop A pressure is greater than that of loop B, then loop B is broken and injection will occur in loop A. If the loop A pressure is not greater than that of loop B, the timer will run out causing loop B to be selected (Allowable Value: 0.53 seconds). Seal-ins are required so that pump coastdown, reductions in vessel pressure, or other effects will not cause DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.3-12 a change in the decision later. (This could occur if the P decays to within the instrument error band.) The P is measured from each of four recirculation lo op riser pipes to the corresponding riser pipe on the other recirculation loop. The taps are located as close to the reactor vessel as possible. This arrangement provides a one-out-of-two-twice capability. The instrument lines are separated and protected, as much as possible, so that damage to one instrument line does not result in damage to another line. The instrument lines are as short as possible to avoid instrument delays due to the sensor piping.
For any break location in the recirculation lines, maximum recirculation flowrate provides the maximum sensitivity for break detection using the dP instruments. Therefore, small breaks in conjunction with low recirculation flowrates are the most difficult to detect. However, the size of the smallest break which must be detected increases (required sensitivity decr eases) with decreasing power and recirculation flow. It has been determined that the decrease in required leak detection sensitivity more than compensates for the actual loss of sensitivity resulting from the corresponding recirculation flow reduction.
Therefore, the dP instrumentation in the LPCI break detection system is effective over the complete range of recirculation flowrates as required for LPCI injection.
The dP instruments are positive-scale-type instruments with at least one trip unit adjustable over the full range of the instrument. The instrument range is approximately +10 psi. The trip point setting is about 0.75 psi and should be repeatable within 0.1 psi. Any positive P (pressure of A greater than pressure of B) would result in the selection of loop A.
If the P is negative (pressure of A not greater than pressure of B), loop B would be used. The response time for full scale movement does not exceed 0.2 seconds. The instruments are not adversely affected by overpressure of either side up to the design pressure of the instrument casing. The command to inject in a given loop results in closing the recirculation pump discharge valve on that loop and opening the LPCI injection valve to that loop. Here it is assumed that the pumps are already started by high drywell pressure or low reactor water level.
7.3.1.2.3 Conformance to IEEE 279-1968 The following subsections present a point-by-point comparison of the LPCI system with the requirements of proposed IEEE 279-1968 which has been summarized from GE Topical Report, NEDO-10139.
[2] For more detailed information, refer to the topical report.
The low pressure core cooling system consists of three subsystems: core spray system loop A, core spray system loop B, and the LPCI system. Therefore, it is clear that the LPCI system by itself is not required to meet all the requirements of IEEE 279-1968 since it is backed up by the two core spray loops. The following comparison is provided only to show the adequacy of the LPCI system
design.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev 7 June 2007 7.3-13 7.3.1.2.3.1 General Functional Requirement The general functional requirement of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.1, and the provisions of the LPCI system to fulfill the requirements are summarized below:
A. Auto-initiation of appropriate action - Appropriate action for the LPCI control system is defined as the activation of equipment for introducing low-pressure water into the reactor via the recirculation line when reactor vessel level drops below a predetermined point or the drywell pressure increases above a predetermined value, and reactor vessel pressure is below the pump shutoff head. Equipment activation occurs automatically.
B. Precision - The precision requirement for the core spray system is discussed in Section 7.3.1.1.1.1; this discussion applies equally to the LPCI and core spray systems. Sensors which initiate the core spray system are the same sensors as used to initiate the LPCI system. C. Reliability - The reliability of the control system is commensurate with the controlled equipment so that the overall system reliability is not limited by the controls.
D. Action over the full range of environmental conditions - Refer to Section 3.11 for information on the current environmental qualification program. See Section 7.3.1.1.1.1 for the specific environmental requirements evaluated for IEEE 279-1968 compliance.
7.3.1.2.3.2 Single-Failure Criterion
The LPCI system is comprised of two loops with separate suction and discharge piping. One LPCI loop contains the LPCI A and B pumps discharging to the reactor recirculation A-train inlet header, and the other loop contains the LPCI C and D pumps discharging to the reactor recirculation B-train inlet header. The two LPCI loops are normally cross-tied. Redundancy in equipment and control logic is provided so that it is unlikely that the LPCI system could be rendered inoperative (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.2).
Two control logic circuits are provided. Control logic A is provided to initiate loop A pumps and valves and logic B is provided to initiate loop B equipment. The LPCI initiation logic is separate from the LPCI loop selection logic for controlling the injection valves.
Tolerance to single failures or events is provided in the control logic initiation circuitry so that failures will be limited to the possible disabling of the initiation of only one loop (two of four pumps available).
The LPCI system is designed to detect the location of a recirculation line break and to select the unbroken loop for injection. The sensing circuit for break detection and valve selection is arranged so that failure of a single device or circuit to function on demand will not prevent selection of the correct loop for injection. Tolerance to the following single failures or events has been incorporated into the loop selection control system design:
A. Single open circuit, DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 4 7.3-14 B. Single relay failure to pickup, C. Single relay failure to dropout, D. Single instrument failure, and
E. Single control power failure.
Reliability of the control system is compatible with and more reliable than the controlled equipment (injection valve). Single failures which could cause improper loop selection (i.e., selected short circuits which pickup specific relays) will not disable the core spray function. Therefore, failure of the loop selection scheme to fully comply with the single-failure criterion of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.2, does not constitute a violation of IEEE 279-1968 insofar as the low-pressu re cooling function is concerned.
7.3.1.2.3.3 Quality of Components The discussion of component capability for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.3) also applies generally to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.2.3.4 Equipment Qualification
The discussion of equipment qualification for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.4) also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.2.3.5 Channel Integrity
The LPCI system initiation channels (low water level or high drywell pressure) are designed to meet the single-failure criterion (as discussed in Section 7.3.1.2.3.2). Therefore, they satisfy the channel integrity objective of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.5.
The LPCI logic backup has been achieved without compromising the integrity of the channel being backed up. Analysis shows that a complete destruction of a wireway (conduit) carrying wires between the two relay panels can do no more than introduce a ground on one side of the dc control bus; it will not prevent operation of either logic circuit.
The instrumentation provided for the loop selection logic does not initiate a protective action; therefore IEEE 279-1968 Paragraph 4.5 does not strictly apply to this instrumentation. However, as previously described, redundancy in instrumentation and control logic circuits has been provided so that it is extremely unlikely that a failure within this functional logic will prevent proper LPCI operation.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev 7 June 2007 7.3-15 7.3.1.2.3.6 Channel Independence The discussion of channel independence of the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.6) also applies to the LPCI system. By definition (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 2.2), a channel loses its identity where single action signals are combined. Therefore, since instrument channels are combined into a pair of single logic channel trip systems, IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.6 does not strictly apply for the loop selection logic.
7.3.1.2.3.7 Control and Protection Interaction The discussion of control protection and interaction for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.7) also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.2.3.8 Derivation of System Inputs The discussion of derivation of system inputs for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.8) also applies to the LPCI system. The inputs provided to determine which loop should be used for LPCI injection are direct measures of the variables required to make this decision (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.8).
7.3.1.2.3.9 Capability for Sensor Checks
The discussion of sensor checks for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.9) also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.2.3.10 Capability for Test and Calibration
The discussion of test and calibration capability for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.10) also applies to the LPCI system. The only portion of the LPCI logic which cannot be tested with the reactor at full power is the recirculation pump trip portion of the loop selection logic (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph
4.10).
7.3.1.2.3.11 Channel Bypass or Removal from Operation
The discussion of channel bypass for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.11) also applies to the LPCI
system.
7.3.1.2.3.12 Operating Bypasses
Manual Bypass Access to switchgear, motor control centers and instrument valves is controlled as discussed in Section 7.3.1.2.3.14. Access to other means of bypassing are in the main control room and therefore under the direct supervision of the control room operator (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.12). For example, the four LPCI pumps can be prevented from automatically starting upon a LPCI initiation signal if all four main control board LPCI pump control switches are placed in the "Pull to Lock" position.
Automatic Bypasses None DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 2 7.3-16 7.3.1.2.3.13 Indication of Bypasses The discussion of indication of bypasses for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.13) also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.2.3.14 Access to Means for Bypassing
Access to switchgear, motor control centers, and instrument valves is controlled as discussed in Section 7.3.1.1.1.14. Access to other means of bypassing (i.e., closure of pump suction valves by means of a control switch) are located in the main control room and, therefore, under the administrative control of the operator (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.14).
7.3.1.2.3.15 Multiple Trip Settings
IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.15, which deals with multiple trip settings, is not applicable because all setpoints are unique.
7.3.1.2.3.16 Completion of Protection Action Once Initiated
The discussion of completion of protective action for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.16) also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.2.3.17 Manual Actuation Each piece of LPCI actuation equipment required to operate (pumps and valves) is capable of manual initiation electrically from the control panel in the main control room (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.17).
7.3.1.2.3.18 Access to Setpoint Adjustments The discussion of setpoint adjustme nts for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.18) also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.2.3.19 Identification of Protective Actions
The discussion of identification of protective actions for the core spray (Section 7.3.1.1.1.19) also applies to the LPCI system.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 6 June 2005 7.3-17 7.3.1.2.3.20 Information Readout Sufficient information is provided on a continuous basis so that the operator can have a high degree of confidence that the LPCI function is available and/or operating properly (IEEE 279-1968, paragraph 4.20).
7.3.1.2.3.21 System Repair
The discussion of system repair for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.21) also applies to the LPCI system.
7.3.1.2.4 Failure Mode and Effects Summary
Since the LPCI system is by itself a single system and, as such, vulnerable to single failures in common components, a detailed failure mode and effects analysis is not presented here. No single component, cable, wireway, or cabinet failure can disable the LPCI injection function of the system except the injection valves and specific portions of the loop selection circuitry. Those single failures that could possibly disable the LPCI system will not directly affect the core spray system. The low-pressure core cooling system is designed such that for any single failure the availability of two core spray loops or one core spray loop and two LPCI pumps will be maintained.
7.3.1.3 High Pressure Coolant Injection System Instrumentation and Control
7.3.1.3.1 Initiation and Interlocks The HPCI subsystem is designed to pump water into the reactor under LOCA conditions which do not result in rapid depressurization of the pressure vessel. The loss of coolant might be due to a loss of reactor feedwater or to a small line break which does not cause immediate depressurization of the reactor vessel.
Automatic initiation of the HPCI system occurs on low-low reactor water level or high drywell pressure. Low-low reactor water level and high drywell pressure are detected by four independent level transmitters and pressure switches connected in one-out-of-two-twice logic arrays. When the initiation signal is received, the HPCI turbine and its required auxiliary equipment starts automatically and the required valves reposition automatically. The HPCI injection valve opens after the HPCI pump discharge pressure reaches a preset value to prevent steam flashing and water hammer. A HPCI system initiation pushbutton is provided in the control room for rapid single action manual system initiation. Figures 7.3-8A, 7.3-8B and 7.3-8C are functional control diagrams of the HPCI system.
A minimum flow bypass valve which is provided for pump protection is automatically opened on low pump flow and closed on high flow whenever the steam supply valve to the turbine is open. Placing the minimum flow valve control switch in the PULL-TO-LOCK position closes the minimum flow valve under any DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 2 7.3-18 system condition. The position of the minimum flow valve PULL-TO-LOCK switch is administratively controlled by station procedures.
In the event of low water level in the condensate storage tank or high water level in the suppression pool, whichever comes first, the pump suction valves from the suppression chamber open and the suction valves from the condensate storage tank close. The valves are interlocked to prevent opening the valves from the condensate storage tank whenever both valves from the suppression chamber are not fully closed.
Automatic isolation of the HPCI system is discussed in Section 7.3.2.
HPCI turbine stop valve closure will occur upon receipt of any of the following signals:
A. Turbine overspeed trip - A spring-loaded mechanical-type plunger, located in a housing threaded to the high pressure end of the turbine shaft. In the event the turbine overspeeds, the overspeed trip operates to actuate the emergency tripping mechanism closing the stop valve to shut off steam flow to the turbine. The plunger's center of gravity is off the axis of rotation in a direction which results in centrifugal forces tending to unseat the plunger. A retaining spring is factory-adjusted to hold the plunger on its seat up to the desired tripping speed when the centrifugal force will overcome the spring force and unseat the plunger. This occurs in a small fraction of a revolution. The plunger strikes the emergency trip mechanism actuating trigger thereby tripping the turbine. The device automatically resets when shaft speed has reduced approximately 20% from the trip setpoint.
B. Low pump suction pressure - A single pressure switch is used to detect excessive vacuum conditions at the pump suction, i.e., provide pump protection in the event of lost suction.
(This trip is bypassed during automatic initiation of HPCI.)
C. High turbine exhaust pressure - Two pressure switches, connected in one-out-of-two logic, protect the turbine casing from overpressure without relying on the pressure relief system logic. This trip is initiated at a pressure of 100 psig (assuming flashing steam flow through the turbine with a locked rotor, it would be possible to obtain this high pressure condition).
D. Reactor vessel high water level - Two level sensors, connected in series logic, shutdown the HPCI subsystem when water inventory is normal.
There are no provisions for overriding any signals which shut down the HPCI subsystem. For those signals which have seal-in logic, the operator may reset the logic at any time after the signal clears. If the shutdown signal is no longer present, the HPCI subsystem is capable of auto-restart upon receipt of an initiation signal.
Numerous combinations of instrumentation logic have been used for the automatic signals and the turbine trip signals for the HPCI system. The justification for the differences in logic used follows:
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 2 7.3-19 A. The design is such that no single failure will result in a breach of the primary containment pressure integrity.
B. Where there is a high probability of spurious signals (e.g., for the steam leak detection system), the full complement of instrumentation has been selected and connected in one-out-of-two-twice logic.
C. Where trip signals are employed for equipment protection, single or double instrumentation has been used for simplicity and economics. In these instances, there is a low probability that the instrument failure would prevent system operation.
D. Finally, it must be noted that the single-failure criterion has not been used as a design basis for the HPCI system. The ADS is its backup.
7.3.1.3.2 HPCI Turbine Control Logic The HPCI turbine control logic consists of three major components for speed control:
A. Speed governor - A mechanical flyball device which positions the valve portion of a primary pilot valve and bushing assembly. The speed governor serves a twofold function: speed setting in response to the other components of the turbine control logic and speed limiting by providing physical stops on the allowable movement of the primary pilot valve bushing. The speed governor is capable of limiting turbine speed to 4000 rpm.
B. Motor speed changer (MSC) - A remote manual speed control device covering a speed range from 0 to 4000 rpm. The MSC is automatically returned to its low speed stop (LSS) whenever the turbine stop valve is tripped. The function of the MSC is twofold: to prevent opening the turbine control valves until the stop valve is fully open and to provide for controlled startup of the turbine.
C. Motor gear unit (MGU) - An automatic speed control device covering a speed range from 2000 to 4000 rpm, the required range for HPCI system operation. The MGU is automatically positioned by the output signal from the flow controller. This control logic is essentially identical to that used for control of turbine-driven feed pump systems.
When the HPCI turbine is in the standby condition, the MGU is above the MSC speed, preferably at its high-speed stop (4000 rpm), receiving a maximum demand signal from the flow controller since flow is zero. The MSC is at its low-speed stop (0 rpm) since the stop valve is closed. The turbine control valves are closed since the MSC is at its low-speed stop. The turbine stop valve is closed, with no hydraulic pressure.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 2 7.3-20 When an initiation signal is received, the following actions occur:
A. The auxiliary oil pump is automatically started, and the stop valve reset solenoid is automatically energized.
B. Hydraulic oil pressure develops, opening the turbine stop valve with closed control valves. The MSC is at the (LSS).
C. Once the stop valve is fully open, the MSC automatically runs to the high speed stop at high speed.
D. The turbine control valves open at their maximum rate (MGU at its high-speed stop), accelerating the turbine.
E. The turbine speed is initially limited to slightly higher than 4000 rpm by the turbine speed governor. The MSC controls the rate of turbine acceleration.
F. Once pump discharge flow reaches its preset value, the output from the flow controller diminishes, and the MGU is ultimately reset below the limiting value of the speed governor, thereby controlling turbine speed. The pump discharge flow controller continues to adjust the MGU, changing the turbine speed setpoint as required to maintain the preset flow requirement over the range of HPCI operation (i.e., 4000 rpm down to approximately 2000 rpm ). HPCI flowrate is dependent on steam flow available from the reactor.
Under normal operation, the turbine control valves are operated by the MGU to automatically maintain an injection flowrate determined by a flow indicating controller (FIC). The signal generated by the FIC is compared to the actual HPCI flow as determined by a flow transmitter. The resulting signal is applied to the signal converter which drives the MGU to properly position the turbine control valve through a series of mechanical and hydraulic linkages. A position signal corresponding to the MGU speed setting is also applied to the signal converter to stabilize its output. The MGU is also operable from a control room manual RAISE-LOWER control switch. In addition, a local handwheel provides manual speed control in the event of control circuit failure or burned-out MGU motor.
The MGU can be operated automatically or manually. Each mode has its own power source.
The HPCI MGU electrical controls transfer the dc power from the manual mode (control switch) to the automatic flow control mode (HPCI pump flow control signal converter) without electrically connecting the two sources. This prevents any ground in the automatic controls from being connected to the ungrounded battery systems.
The turbine speed is controlled by the lowest setting of the preceding components:
A. Limited to 4000 rpm by the speed governor (with MSC at the high speed stop).
B. Automatically controlled between 2000 and 4000 rpm by the MGU.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.3-21 C. Manually controlled between 0 and 4000 rpm by the MSC. It should be noted that below 2000 rpm, turbine speed is maintained by control valve position only, i.e., there is no speed setting feedback from the speed governor due to the sizing of the primary pilot valve and the inertia of the flyball system.
7.3.1.3.3 Conformance with IEEE 279-1968
The following subsections present a point-by-point comparison of the HPCI system with the requirements of IEEE 279-1968 which has been summarized from GE Topical Report NEDO-10139.[2] The automatic depressurization system is provided to reduce reactor pressure in case the HPCI system is not sufficient to maintain the reactor water level, thereby allowing use of low pressure systems (CS, LPCI). Therefore, it is clear that the HPCI system is not required to meet all the requirements of IEEE 279-1968 since it is backed up by the independent ADS. The following comparison is provided only to show the adequacy of HPCI system design. For more detailed information, refer to the topical report.
7.3.1.3.3.1 General Functional Requirements The general functional requirements of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.1, and the provisions of the HPCI system to fulfill the requirements are summarized below:
A. Auto-Initiation of Appropriate Action - Appropriate action for the HPCI control system is defined as the activation of equipment for introducing high-pressure water into the reactor via the feedwater line when reactor vessel level drops below a predetermined point or the drywell pressure increases above a predetermined value. Equipment actuation occurs automatically.
B. Precision - The process sensor equipment will initiate action before process variables exceed precisely established limits. In the case of vessel level sensors, the HPCI system water level initiation point is near the mid-range of the level thereby making the instrument trip point relatively independent of vessel pressure or drywell ambient temperature. Dresden operating procedures provide guidance and limitations on the level instrumentation during elevated drywell temperature conditions.
C. Reliability - The reliability of the control system is compatible with the controlled equipment so that the overall system reliability is not limited by the controls.
D. Action over the full range of environmental conditions - Refer to Section 3.11 for information on the current environmental qualification program. See Section 7.3.1.1.1.1 for the specific environmental requirements evaluated for IEEE 279-1968 compliance.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.3-22 7.3.1.3.3.2 Single-Failure Criterion The HPCI system, by itself, is not required to meet the single-failure criterion (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.2). The control logic circuits for the HPCI system initiation and control are housed in several relay cabinets and the power supply for most HPCI equipment is from a single dc power source. However, the relay cabinet and normal power source for ADS are independent of the HPCI system.
The HPCI initiation sensors and wiring up to the HPCI relay logic cabinet do, however, meet the single-failure criterion. Physical separation of instrument lines is provided so that no single instrument rack destruction or single instrument line (pipe) failure can prevent HPCI initiation. Wiring separation between division s also provides tolerance to single wireway destruction (including shorts, opens, and grounds) in the accident detection portion of the control logic. This single-failure criterion is not applied to logic relay cabinet or to other equipment required to function for HPCI operation.
7.3.1.3.3.3 Quality of Components
The discussion of equipment qualification for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.3) also applies generally to the HPCI system.
7.3.1.3.3.4 Equipment Qualification No components of the HPCI control system are required to operate in the drywell environment except for a portion of the reference legs for the vessel level transmitters. Errors introduced under steam leak (high drywell temperature and reactor depressurization) for HPCI initiation are evaluated in Dresden level instrument setpoint error analysis calculations. The HPCI steam line isolation valve located inside the drywell is a normally open valve and is therefore not required to operate except for primary containment isolation (Group IV).
Other process sensor equipment for HPCI initiation is located in the reactor building and is capable of accurate operation in ambient temperature conditions that result from abnormal conditions (loss of ventilation and LOCA), IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.4.
7.3.1.3.3.5 Channel Integrity The HPCI system instrument initiation channels meet the single-failure criterion (as discussed in Section 7.3.1.3.3.2). Therefore, they satisfy the channel integrity objective of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.5.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.3-23 By definition (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 2.2) a channel loses its identity where single action signals are combined. Therefore, since instrument channels are combined into a single trip system, IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.5 does not stri ctly apply for the HPCI control system.
7.3.1.3.3.6 Channel Independence
Channel independence for initiation sensors monitoring each variable is provided by electrical and mechanical separation (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.6). The A and C transmitters for the reactor vessel level are located on separate local instrument racks (identified as Division I equipment), and the B and D transmitters for reactor vessel level are located on separate local instrument racks (identified as Division II equipment) widely separated from the A and C local instrument racks The A and C sensors have a common pair of process taps which are widely separated from the corresponding taps for sensors B and D. Disabling of one or both sensors in one location does not disable the control for HPCI initiation.
7.3.1.3.3.7 Control and Protection Interaction
The discussion of control protection and interaction for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.7) also applies to the HPCI system.
7.3.1.3.3.8 Derivation of System Inputs The inputs that start the HPCI system are direct measures of the variables that indicate need for high pressure core cooling, such as reactor vessel low water level or high drywell pressure (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.8).
7.3.1.3.3.9 Capability for Sensor Checks
The discussion of sensor checks for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.9) also applies to the HPCI system.
7.3.1.3.3.10 Capability for Test and Calibration The discussion of test and calibration capability for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.10) also applies to the HPCI system.
7.3.1.3.3.11 Channel Bypass or Removal from Operation Calibration of any sensor introduces a single instrument channel trip. This trip does not cause a protective function without the coincident trip of a second channel. There are no instrument channel bypasses as such in the HPCI system. Removal DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.3-24 of a sensor from operation during calibration does not prevent the redundant instrument channel from functioning if accident conditions occur. The time required for removal of an instrument channel from service during calibration is brief (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.11).
7.3.1.3.3.12 Operating Bypasses Manual Bypasses The HPCI system can be manually bypassed by switching the flow controller from AUTO to MANUAL operation in the main control room or adjusting AUTO operation. The controller is in the main control room and therefore under the direct supervision of the control room operator (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.12).
Automatic Bypasses
The following is a list of automatic bypasses which can render the HPCI system inoperative (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.12):
A. HPCI steam line isolation signal.
B. The following signals cause a HPCI turbine trip irrespective of an initiation:
- 1. HPCI turbine exhaust pressure high,
- 2. Reactor vessel water level high, 3. HPCI turbine overspeed, or
C. HPCI pump suction pressure low when no initiation signal is present.
7.3.1.3.3.13 Indication of Bypasses Indication of bypasses provided is as previously discussed in Section 7.3.1.3.3.12 above.
7.3.1.3.3.14 Access to Means for Bypassing Access to switchgear, motor control centers, and instrument valves is procedurally controlled. Access to other means of bypass are located in the main control room and are, therefore, under administrative control (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.14).
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.3-25 7.3.1.3.3.15 Multiple Trip Settings IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.15, which deals with multiple trip settings, is not applicable because all setpoints are unique.
7.3.1.3.3.16 Completion of Protective Action Once Initiated
The final control elements for the HPCI system are essentially bistable; that is, a motor-operated valve stays open or closed once it has reached the desired position, even thou gh its starter drops out when the limit switch is reached. In the case of pump starts, the auto-initiation signal will open the turbine steam supply and pump suction/discharge motor operated valves which are sealed in by their individual open/closed circuits.
Thus a protective action once initiated (e.g., flow established) must go to completion or continue until terminated by deliberate operator action or until it is automatically stopped on high vessel water level or system malfunction trip signals (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.16).
7.3.1.3.3.17 Manual Actuation Each piece of HPCI actuation equipment required to operate (pump or valve) is capable of manual initiation electrically from the control panel in the main control room (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.17). Failure of logic circuitry to initiate the HPCI system will not affect the manual control of equipment.
However, failures of active components or control circuit failures which produce a turbine trip may disable the manual actuation of the HPCI system. Failures of this type are continuously monitored by alarms and as such cannot realistically be expected to occur when HPCI operation is required.
7.3.1.3.3.18 Access to Setpoint Adjustments
The discussion of setpoint adjustme nts for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.18) also applies to the HPCI system.
The only adjustable setpoints provided in the HPCI system are those provided on the flow controller on the main control room panel. Adjustable setpoints are administratively controlled (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.18).
7.3.1.3.3.19 Identification of Protective Actions
Protective actions (here interpreted to mean pickup of a single sensor relay) are directly indicated and identified by action of the sensor relay which has an identification tag and a clear glass window front which permits convenient visible verification of the relay position. A sensor trip also actuates an annunciator so no single channel trip (relay pickup) can go unnoticed. This combination of DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 2 7.3-26 annunciation and visible relay actuation is considered to fulfill the requirements of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.19.
7.3.1.3.3.20 Information Readout The HPCI control system is designed to provide the operator with accurate and timely information pertinent to its status. It does not introduce signals into other systems that could cause anomalous indications confusing to the operator. There are many elements of this energize-to-operate system, both active and passive, which are not continuously monitored for operability. Two examples are: 1) relay circuits which are normally open and are not monitored for continuity on a continuous basis, and 2) pressure and level sensors, which although continuously active are not continuously exercised and verified operable. Verifying the operability of these components is accomplished by periodic testing and by proper selection of test periods to be compatible with the historically established reliability of the components tested. Complete and timely indications are made available. Sufficient information is provided on a continuous basis so that the operator can have a high degree of confidence that the HPCI function is available and/or operating properly (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.20).
7.3.1.3.3.21 System Repair
The discussion of system repair for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.21) applies equally to the HPCI system.
In addition to the recognition of failed components during test, components which fail so as to produce a trip condition are continuously monitored by alarm (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.21.
7.3.1.3.4 Failure Mode and Effects Summary Since the HPCI system is by itself a single system, and as it is recognized that there are single failures that could disable the system, a detailed failure mode and effects analysis is not warranted.
No single failure in the initiation instrumentation can prevent HPCI operation if required. Again, those single failures that could possibly disable the HPCI system will in no way affect the ADS system and vice versa.
The only instrumentation and equipment common to the ADS and HPCI systems are the reactor vessel water level transmitters. Separate trip units on the shared transmitters are used for the two systems. Both physical and electrical separation are maintained so that no single failure of the level-sensing equipment or wiring (shorts or opens) can disable either HPCI or ADS.
Therefore, it is concluded that no single failure can disable both the HPCI and the ADS systems.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-27 7.3.1.4 Automatic Depressurization System Instrumentation and Control The automatic depressurization system is designed to depressurize the reactor to permit either the LPCI or core spray systems to cool the reactor core during a small break LOCA. As such it provides a backup for the HPCI system. Reactor vessel depressurization is accomplished by blowdown through the relief valves to vent steam to the suppression pool.
The ADS is initiated by instrumentation which monitors reactor vessel level and drywell pressure. Automatic actuation requires coincident indication of reactor water low-low level and drywell high pressure which is maintained for a period of 2 minutes. Each of these circuits is connected in a one-out-of-two-logic arrangement to provide redundancy. In addition, the design prevents blowdown until the discharge pressure of at least one LPCI pump or one core spray pump exceeds 100 psig. This design provides direct assurance that the low-pressure ECCS pumps are operating prior to automatic depressurization.
Four instrument channels monitor each initiating parameter. Two of the four channels monitoring each parameter are assigned to one-out-of-two logic divisions. The arrangement of these signals within each logic division is two-out-of-two (high pressure and low-low level) in coincidence with two-out-of-two (high pressure and low-low level). The trip in one of these coincidence signals is interlocked with and permits the starting of a timer which delays actuation of the relief valves to permit operator intervention and to allow the HPCI to restore reactor water inventory. The operator can reset the timer before it times out. The timer action completes the initiation circuitry. The time delay setting was chosen to be long enough so that HPCI has time to start yet not so long that core spray and LPCI are unable to adequately cool the fuel if HPCI fails to start. Each trip logic division actuates all five ADS valves, i.e., the four electromatic relief valves and the Target Rock safety relief valve. Figures 7.3-9 and 7.3-10 are functional control diagrams of the system.
An additional automatic actuation mode has been provided in the circuitry in response to NUREG-0737, Item II.K.3.18. This logic scheme is provided to assure automatic blowdown activation when necessary to mitigate events which do not pressurize the drywell, such as an isolation transient, steam line break outside the drywell, or stuck open relief valve with subsequent failure of HPCI and the isolation condenser. This ADS actuation sequence is initiated by low-low reactor water level alone, which starts timer with an Allowable Value of 580 seconds. If reactor level is not recovered within this time and indication is present of sufficient discharge pressure (100 psig) in LPCI or core spray, ADS will initiate without further operator action, unless manually inhibited. The LPCI and core spray pumps normally start upon indication of high drywell pressure or upon indication of reactor low-low level with a low reactor pressure permissive. However, the low reactor pressure permissive is bypassed once the actuation low-level timer times out, permitting the pumps to start and depressurization to occur. Once the low-low reactor water level signal starts the actuation timer, only restoration of water level above the low-low setpoint will reset the actuation timer (i.e., reset of the initiation timer does not affect the actuation timer).
An ADS inhibit switch is provided to prevent actuation on low-low reacto r water level during an anticipated transient without scram (ATWS) event. The ADS inhibit switch does not affect the high-pressure relief function of the relief valves. Also, automatic ADS actuation can be prevented by depressing and holding the 2-DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev 7 June 2007 7.3-28 minute timer reset pushbutton. The use of the inhibit switch is alarmed in the control room.
Each train of blowdown logic is powered from a single bus associated with that train. Each valve is powered by a pair of circuits provided with power from separate dc buses. Train B has an alternate power source available which is automatically switched over upon loss of the primary power source.
The 2-minute time delay relays, used for ADS initiation, conform to 10 CFR 50, Appendix B; IEEE 323-1974; and IEEE 344-1975. The relays are mounted on panels 902(3)-32, which are located in the auxiliary electrical equipment rooms.
7.3.1.4.1 Conformance with IEEE 279-1968 The following subsections present a point-by-point comparison of the ADS with the design requirements of IEEE 279-1968 which has been summarized from GE Topical Report, NEDO-10139.[2] For more detailed information, refer to the topical report.
7.3.1.4.1.1 General Functional Requirement
The general functional requirement of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.1, and the provisions of the ADS to fulfill the requirements are summarized below:
A. Auto-initiation of appropriate action - Appropriate action is defined as initiating the opening of a specified number of valves when loss of primary coolant is detected by reactor vessel low level, persists for approximately 2 minutes, and is confirmed by high drywell pressure, provided that low pressure standby core cooling equipment is available and operating, or when reactor vessel low level is sensed for 8.5 minutes continuously. The ADS design accomplishes the appropriate action automatically.
B. Precision - The accuracy requirements for initiating ADS (like those for the core spray system) are not such that precision of measurement is required. Precision provided by these instruments is adequate to give positive automatic depressurization initiation before the vessel water level can drop below a tolerable point. The ADS control design achieves the degree of precision necessary to insure appropriate initiation of the protective function when needed and precludes inadvertent initiation under extremes of environment related errors in instrumentation.
C. Reliability - The reliability of the ADS control system is an estimated order of magnitude higher than the reliability of the actuated equipment (valves).
D. Action over the full range of environmental conditions - The corresponding discussion for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.1)
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev 7 June 2007 7.3-29 applies to the ADS in all respects except fire and missiles. A single cabinet houses the redundant relays that energize all the auto-depressurization valves in unison. However, the circuits to the ADS valves emerge from this cabinet in independent metal conduits and are carried through separate penetrations into the drywell. Separate metal conduits are carried from the penetrations to the individual valves distributed among the four main steam lines.
Since wiring for the relief valve solenoids must survive the LOCA environment for an appreciable time (at least several minutes to perhaps an hour
), cable has been selected which can easily tolerate this environment.
A destructive fire enveloping the control cabinet could disable all valve control circuits. Such a fire from electrical sources is not considered credible due to the low current available in the circuits involved and the fire-resistant nature of the devices and wiring within the cabinet. Thus, external, non-electrical fires are considered the only possible fire damage source.
Separate routing of the ADS conduits within the drywell reduces to a very low probability the possibility of missile damage to more than one ADS conduit or damage to the pilot solenoid assembly of ADS valves. The HPCI system will provide backup for the ADS under all conditions unless the HPCI line is the source of the missile or jet, in which case damage to a single ADS valve or conduit is considered credible.
If a valve were rendered inoperable by a jet of water and/or steam associated with a pipe break (Section 3.6), the redundancy of the ADS provides adequate protection for all possible break situations. Protection exists even for breaks in the feedwater line used for HPCI injection (which is the worst case, since the HPCI function could then be impaired or lost). The situation leaves all but one relief valve and all low-pressure ECCS operable. The ECCS design is such that after any single failure as identified in the LOCA analysis (Section 6.3), the remaining ECCS will provide adequate core cooling for all postulated LOCA over the entire pressure range of the event. The scenario with a break in the feedwater line used for HPCI injection and the single failure of an ADS valve leaves the LPCI pumps, two core spray loops, and four ADS valves operable. This scenario has been evaluated to be bounded by the LOCA scenarios described in section 6.3.
Furthermore, it is clear that the situation described above would require an extremely unlikely combination of circumstances.
Therefore, the ADS fulfills the minimum requirement of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.1, without benefit of backup from HPCI.
7.3.1.4.1.2 Single-Failure Criterion The single-failure criterion of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.2, is not directly applicable to ADS because HPCI and ADS are diverse functional backups to each DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.3-30 other insofar as depressurization is concerned.
However, ADS has been designed to accommodate all of the single failures listed under the core spray systems, except single wireway destruction, as described in Section 7.3.1.4.1.6, or a single control cabinet section destruction.
It is not considered credible that any single event occurring within the automatic depressurization cabinet could disable more than one valve.
Inadvertent operation of the ADS cannot result from failure or malfunction of any single component, including single shorts or single opens. Only one valve can be opened by any single short.
7.3.1.4.1.3 Quality of Components The discussion of component quality for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.3) also applies to ADS.
7.3.1.4.1.4 Equipment Qualification
The discussion of equipment qualification for the core spray (Section 7.3.1.1.1.4) also applies to ADS insofar as the level sensors are concerned.
7.3.1.4.1.5 Channel Integrity The discussion of channel integrity for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.5) also applies to ADS. 7.3.1.4.1.6 Channel Independence Channel independence for sensors exposed to each variable is provided by electrical and mechanical separation (IEEE 279-1968, paragraph 4.6). The A and C transmitters for the reactor vessel level are located on separate local instrument racks (identified as Division I equipment), and the B and D transmitters for reactor vessel level are located on separate local instrument racks (identified as Division II equipment) widely separated from the A and C local instrument racks. The A and C sensors have a common pair of process taps which are widely separated from the corresponding taps for sensors B and D. Disabling of one or both sensors in one location would not disable the control for both of the ADS control channels.
Two level and two pressure sensors in one division are mechanically and electrically independent from those in the second division to initiate automatic depressurization. Therefore, these sensors are redundant to each other. The logic for each trip channel is four-out-of-four. So, the overall ADS trip logic becomes one of two, four-out-of-four logics. In addition to the sensors that initiate automatic depressurization, there are ADS permissive sensors associated with the discharge pressure of the low-pressure ECCS pumps. An interlock is provided in each trip system in order to assure that low-pressure core coolant is available before ADS DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.3-31 actually permits depressurization of the reactor vessel. This interlock tends to degrade the reliability of ADS, but it is arranged so that this degradation is reduced to a practical minimum. Two pressure switches, one per trip channel, (12 total) on the discharge of each core spray and each LPCI pump are connected through relays in redundant groups so that each ADS trip system is blocked from actuating unless at least one low-pressure pump shows verified discharge pressure. These pressure switch relay circuits are monitored continuously during normal plant operation so that if any pressure switch circuit gives a false signal of the presence of pressure in the low-pressure system, an annunciator will immediately alert the operator.
7.3.1.4.1.7 Control and Protection Interaction
The automatic depressurization system is strictly an on/off system. No signal can fail in such a manner that it requires ADS system actuation but simultaneously prevents the system from starting (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.7).
7.3.1.4.1.8 Derivation of System Inputs
Inputs which start automatic depressurization system are direct measures of the variables that indicate the need for and acceptable conditions for rapid depressurization of the reactor vessel (e.g., reactor vessel low water level sensed for 8.5 minutes continuously, or reactor vessel low water level verified by high drywell pressure and at least one low pressure core cooling system developing adequate discharge pressure) (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.8).
7.3.1.4.1.9 Capability for Sensor Checks All sensors are pressure-sensing-type sensors and are installed with calibration taps and instrument valves which allow for the application of test pressure for calibration and/or functional tests during normal plant operation or during shutdown (IEEE 279-1968, paragraph 4.9).
7.3.1.4.1.10 Capability for Test and Calibration The automatic depressurization system is not tested in its entirety during actual plant operation, but provisions are incorporated so that operability of all elements of the system can be verified at periodic intervals (IEEE 279-1968, paragraph 4.10).
7.3.1.4.1.11 Channel Bypass or Removal from Operation Calibration of any sensor introduces a single instrument channel trip. This trip does not cause a protective action without the coincident trip of three other channels. Removal of an instrument channel from service during calibration is DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.3-32 brief and does not significantly increase the probability of system failure. There are no channel bypasses as such in ADS. Removal of a sensor from operation during calibration does not prevent the redundant trip circuit from functioning if accident conditions occur because they will be sensed by the redundant sensors (IEEE 279-1968, paragraph 4.11). The manual reset button can interrupt the automatic depressurization for a limited time.
However, releasing the reset button will allow automatic timing and action to resume. The ADS inhibit switch will prevent blowdown if placed in the INHIBIT position. This switch is keylocked and administratively controlled.
7.3.1.4.1.12 Operating Bypasses The discussion of operating bypasses for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.12) also generally applies to the ADS. Disabling two selected sensors would also disable the auto-depressurization action. Disabling of the sensors would result from selective closing of one or more sensor instrument valves for each of the two sets of four sensors. This mechanism of disabling the system is not considered to be an operating bypass, so no exception to IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.12, is taken.
7.3.1.4.1.13 Indication of Bypasses
The ADS inhibit switch, as well as the manual opening of the control power breakers, can disable the automatic depressurization function. Placing the ADS inhibit switch in the INHIBIT position or losing control power, is annunciated. Disabling the sensors by deliberately closing instrument valves is not indicated (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.13).
7.3.1.4.1.14 Access to Means for Bypassing Instrument valves are maintained in their normal operating positions and cannot be operated without permission of responsible authorized personnel. Reset buttons are on the control panel in the main control room. Control power breakers are in dc distribution cabinets which are located in limited access areas. (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.14).
7.3.1.4.1.15 Multiple Trip Settings IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.15, which deals with multiple trip settings, is not applicable because all trip points are unique.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.3-33 7.3.1.4.1.16 Completion of Protection Action Once Initiated Each of the two trip systems for the automatic depressurization control seals-in electrically and remains energized until manually reset by the reset pushbutton (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.16).
7.3.1.4.1.17 Manual Actuation
Each valve has its individual manual control switch which can operate the valve even when the automatic control relays cannot operate for any reason, including loss of control power fuses. Each valve has its own fused solenoid power circuit which is coordinated with the breaker and provides power for ADS control. Manual control is therefore independent of automatic control (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.17). (Refer to Section 5.2.2 for a description of relief valve reopening restrictions.)
7.3.1.4.1.18 Access to Setpoint Adjustments The discussion of setpoint adjustments for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.18) also applied to ADS.
7.3.1.4.1.19 Identification of Protective Actions
The discussion of identification of protective actions for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.19) also applies to ADS.
7.3.1.4.1.20 Information Readout
The following indication pertinent to ADS status is provided to the operator.
A. Annunciators, B. Valve position lights for each valve, and
C. Reactor vessel level indication.
The change of state of any active component from its normal condition is called to the operator's attention; therefore, the indication is considered to be complete and timely (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.20).
7.3.1.4.1.21 System Repair As with the core spray system, the ADS is designed to avoid the need for repair rather than to accommodate quick replacement of components. Thus, reliability is DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 2 7.3-33a built-in rather than approached by accelerated maintenance. All devices in the system are designed for a 40-year lifetime under the imposed duty cycles. Since this duty cycle is composed completely of testing at infrequent intervals, the durability of active components other than sensors is more a matter of shelf life than active life. However, all components are selected for continuous duty plus thousands of cycles of operation (far beyond anticipated usage in actual service). Recognition and location of a failed component is accomplished during periodic testing (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.21).
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-34 7.3.2 Primary Containment Isolation System 7.3.2.1 Design Basis
The primary containment isolation system (PCIS) provides automatic isolation of appropriate pipelines which penetrate the primary containment whenever certain monitored variables exceed their preselected operational limits. To achieve this objective, PCIS was designed using the following criteria:
A. Prevent the release of radioactive materials in excess of the limits in 10 CFR 100 as a result of the design basis accidents;
B. Function safely following any single component malfunction; and
C. Function independently of other plant controls and instrumentation.
7.3.2.2 Isolation Logic Description
The PCIS logic is arranged as a dual logic channel system, similar to the reactor protection system logic (Section 7.2). Sensor relays in the PCIS receive their power either from one of the reactor protection system channel buses or from the essential service ac bus. The sensor relays are normally energized, as in the reactor protection system. Deenergization of the sensor relays causes operation of contacts in trip channel logic circuits. Trip channel logic circuit relays cause a single logic channel trip. In most cases both logic channels must trip to initiate isolation.
Isolation valves use various methods of operation: ac motor, dc motor, solenoid, or pilot solenoid and instrument air pressure. For those valves closed by ac or dc motor operation, deenergizing the trip channel isolation logic relays closes contacts in the valve motor control circuitry. Solenoid-operated valves normally have their solenoids energized when open; isolation logic relays open contacts in the solenoid power supply. Air-operated isolation valves are actuated through solenoid-controlled pilot air valves.
Primary containment isolation functions are initiated by groups, according to the trip channel logic associated with each group. Additionally, manual switches on the control room panel are available to back up all trip signals. In addition to providing isolation, the system initiates other actions designed to limit radioactive release. Analytical Limits are listed in Table 7.3-1. Figure 7.3-11 identifies the DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 3 7.3-35 actuated valves and the initiating signals. Table 6.2-9 provides information on the valves actuated by the system.
There are five groups of isolation valves, as follows:
A. Group 1 - this group includes isolation valves for the following:
- 1. Main steam lines,
- 2. Main steam line drain, 3. Isolation condenser steam line vent, and
- 4. Recirculation sample line.
Two solenoid-operated pilot valves are used to control the air supply for each main steam line isolation valve (see Section 6.2.4 for a description of the MSIVs). One solenoid is powered by ac, the other by dc. The arrangement is such that both must be deenergized to actuate valve closure. Two of the trip channels controlling the isolation logic relays are powered from a reactor protection system channel bus; the other two trip channels receive power from the essential service ac bus. Each sensor relay circuit receives power from the same source as the trip channel in which it actuates contacts. Upon loss of all ac, the circuits receiving power from the essential bus will continue to receive ac power through the dc/ac inverter. Since trip channels powered from the essential service ac bus do not lose power, a loss of all ac will neither cause nor prevent main steam line isolation.
B. Group 2 - this group includes the isolation valves for the following (refer to Table 6.2-9 for specific valve information):
- 1. Drywell equipment and floor drain sump isolation, 2. Reactor head cooling isolation, 3. Drywell vent isolation,
- 4. Drywell vent relief isolation (2-inch bypass), 5. Drywell purge isolation,
- 6. Drywell and torus nitrogen makeup isolation, 7. Drywell and torus inert isolation,
- 8. Torus purge isolation,
- 9. Drywell and torus vent from reactor building isolation, 10. Drywell vent to standby gas treatment isolation,
- 11. Torus vent isolation, DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.3-36 12. Torus vent relief isolation (2-inch bypass),
- 13. Drywell air sampling isolation, 14. Torus air sampling isolation, 15. Torus-to-condenser drain isolation, 16. Drywell sample (ILRT) isolation, and
- 17. Traversing incore probe (TIP) isolation valves. (Group 2 isolation initiates TIP withdrawal; the isolation valves close when TIP withdrawal is past the limit switch.
See Section 7.6 for a description.)
A Group 2 isolation signal also initiates secondary containment isolation. The secondary containment system is described in Section 6.2.3.
The Group 2 inboard and outboard isolation valves are maintained in their normal positions while their respective solenoids are energized. These solenoids are energized by a series/parallel combination of four trip relays: 595-104B in series with 595-104D in Division I and 595-104A in series with 595-104C in Division II. The divisional series combinations are in parallel.
Each trip relay is energized by a series combination of contacts. If at least one trip relay opens in each division, the inboard and outboard isolation valve solenoids deenergize, closing the valves and causing a Group 2 isolation.
C. Group 3 - a reactor low water level signal initiates reactor water cleanup system isolation, and shutdown cooling system isolation.
D. Group 4 - included in this group are the valves for HPCI steam line isolation, and HPCI torus suction.
There are two valves in the steam line for isolation service: one inside primary containment and the other outside. The outside valve is a dc-powered, motor-operated valve taking power from the station batteries. The inside valve is an ac-motor-operated valve that is powered from the standby ac systems. The power and control wiring to the two valves are physically separated and run by separate routes to the control cubicles.
At least one valve will close when system isolation is required.
A time delay has been added to the steam line high flow isolation to prevent spurious steam line isolation.
E. Group 5 - Isolation valves associated with the isolation condenser are closed upon indication of either high isolation condenser steam or condensate flow.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-37 The isolation functions and trip settings used for the electrical control of isolation valves are described in the following paragraphs.
7.3.2.2.1 Low Reactor Vessel Water Level The low reactor level instrumentation is set to trip at greater than the analytical limit of 0 inches on the level instrument. After allowing for the full power pressure drop ac ross the steam dryer, the low-level trip is greater than 494 inches above vessel zero or 136 inches above the top of active fuel (inside shroud). This trip initiates closure of Group 2 and 3 primary containment isolation valves. For an analytical limit of 0 inches on the instrument scale and a 60-second valve closure time, the valves will be closed before perforation of the cladding occurs even for the maximum break: the setting is therefore adequate.
The low-low reactor level instrumentation is analytically assumed to trip before reactor water level reaches-59 inches on the instrument scale. This trip initiates closure of Group 1 primary containment isolation valves. This trip setting level was chosen to be high enough to prevent spurious operation but low enough to initiate ECCS operation and primary system isolation so that no melting of the fuel cladding will occur, post-accident cooling can be accomplished and the guidelines of 10 CFR 100 will not be exceeded. For the complete circumferential break of a 28-inch recirculation line and with the trip setting given above, ECCS initiation and primary isolation are initiated in time to meet the above criteria. The instrumentation also covers the full spectrum of breaks and meets the above criteria.
7.3.2.2.2 Main Steam Line High Radiation Deleted.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-38 7.3.2.2.3 Main Steam Line Space High Temperature Temperature monitoring instrumentation is provided in the main steam line tunnel to detect leaks in this area. Trips are provided by this instrumentation which cause closure of Group 1 isolation valves. The allowable value of less than or equal to 200F is low enough to detect leaks of the order of less than one percent of rated steam flow; thus, this trip is capable of covering the entire spectrum of breaks. For large breaks, it is a backup to high steam flow instrumentatio n discussed below. For small breaks with the resultant small release of radioactivity, it provides isolation before the guidelines of 10 CFR 100 are exceeded.
7.3.2.2.4 Main Steam Line High Flow
Venturis are provided in the main steam lines as a means of measuring steam flow and also limiting the loss of mass inventory from the vessel during a steam line break accident. In addition to monitoring steam flow, instrumentation is provided which causes a trip of Group 1 isolation valves. The primary function of the instrumentation is to detect a break in the main steam line outside the drywell; thus only Group 1 valves are closed. For the worst case accident, main steam line break outside the drywell, the high steam line flow trip, in conjunction with the flow limiters and main steam line valve closure, would limit the mass inventory loss such that the fuel meets the criteria of 10 CFR 50.46, and release of radioactivity to the environs is well below 10 CFR 100 guidelines.
7.3.2.2.5 Low Steam Line Pressure Pressure instrumentation trips when main steam line pressure drops belowa pre-set value. A trip of this instrumentation results in closure of Group 1 isolation valves. In the REFUEL, SHUTDOWN, and STARTUP/HOT STANDBY modes, this trip function is bypassed. This function provides protection against a pressure regulator malfunction which would cause the control and/or bypass valves to go full open. With the trip set at greater than or equal to the pre-set value, inventory loss is limited so that fuel meets the criteria of 10 CFR 50.46; thus, there are no fission products available for release other than those in the reactor water.
7.3.2.2.6 Primary Containment (Drywell) High Pressure The high drywell pressure instrumentation is a backup to the water level instrumentation, and, in addition to initiating ECCS, it causes isolation of Group 2 isolation valves. For the breaks discussed above, this instrumentation will initiate ECCS operation about the same time as the low-low water level instrumentation. Thus the results given above are applicable here. Also, Group 2 isolation valves include the drywell vent, purge and sump isolation valves. High drywell pressure activates only these valves because high drywell pressure could occur as the result of nonsafety-related causes such as not purging the drywell air during startup.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 4 7.3-39 Total system isolation is not desirable for these conditions, and only the Group 2 valves are required to close. The low-low water level instrumentation initiates protection for the full spectrum of LOCAs and causes a trip of Group 1 primary system isolation valves.
7.3.2.2.7 Primary Containment (Drywell) High Radiation The primary containment (drywell) high radiation signal initiates a Group 2 isolation signal in the event that high drywell radiation is experienced. The intention of the isolation is to minimize releases to the public. This signal provides a backup within the existing Group 2 isolation function. The backup function would only be necessary in the unlikely event that high radiation were present in the drywell without low reactor water level or high drywell pressure.
7.3.2.2.8 High Pressure Coolant Injection Turbine Area High Temperature
The HPCI high temperature instrumentation is provided to detect a break of the HPCI turbine steam line in the HPCI compartment. Tripping of this instrumentation results in actuation of HPCI isolation valves, i.e., Group 4 valves. All sensors are required to be operable to meet the single-failure criterion for design flow and valve closure times are such that core uncovery is prevented and fission product release is within limits.
7.3.2.2.9 High Pressure Coolant Injection High Steam Line Flow The HPCI high flow instrumentation is provided to detect a break in the HPCI turbine steam line. Tripping of this instrumentation results in actuation of HPCI isolation valves, i.e., Group 4 valves. All sensors are required to be operable to meet the single-failure criterion for design flow and valve closure times are such that core uncovery is prevented and fission product release is within limits.
7.3.2.2.10 High Pressure Coolant Injection Low Steam Line Pressure
The low-pressure signal provides automatic isolation of the turbine loop prior to stalling the turbine on low available energy. With the low-pressure condition present, the isolation signal will block the auto-initiation logic of the HPCI. If, however, reactor pressure should rise above the pressure switch setpoint, the isolation signal will auto-reset, and the HPCI will be capable of auto-restart upon receipt of an initiation signal.
7.3.2.2.11 Isolation Condenser High Flow Two sensors on the isolation condenser supply and return lines are provided to detect the failure of isolation condenser lines and actuate isolation action. All DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-40 sensors and instrumentation are required to be operable. The allowable values as defined in the technical specifications and valve closure time prevent uncovering the core or exceeding site limits. The Unit 3 high-flow isolation logic has a time delay of 2 +/- 0.5 seconds to eliminate spurious isolation. The sensors will actuate due to high flow in either direction.
7.3.2.3 Primary Containment Isolation System Instrumentation
The sensors for the PCIS are described in the following paragraphs.
A. Reactor water level pressure sensors are identical to those utilized in the reactor protection system and are described in Section 7.2.
B. Deleted.
C. Steam line tunnel temperatures are sensed by 16 temperature switches. Four switches are used in each instrumentation trip channel. High temperature is indicative of a steam line break.
D. High main steam line flow is sensed by 16 indicating differential pressure switches operating from flow restrictor devices. Each main steam line has one flow restrictor: four separate differential pressure switches operate across each flow restrictor, providing an input from each flow restrictor into each logic trip channel. A trip is actuated by a high differential pressure, indicating high flow.
E. Main steam line low pressure is sensed by four bourdon-tube-operated pressure switches, sensing pressure directly downstream of the main steam equalizing header. Each pressure switch provides an input to one instrumentation trip channel. These switches are mounted on shock absorbing isolators to prevent spurious actuation of the switches.
A bypass is provided for the main steam line low pressure trip. The bypass is effective when the mode switch is in any position other than RUN.
F. High drywell pressure is sensed by four diaphragm-operated pressure switches. Each switch provides an input to one instrumentation subchannel.
G. High drywell radiation is detected by two radiation monitors in the drywell. This isolation has a two-out-of-two-once logic.
H. There are two HPCI differential-pressure-type flow switches, both connected in one-out-of-two logic, across a single set of sensing lines across the steam line elbow within the primary containment vessel (drywell). The flow sensors are electrically connected to the isolation system such that a trip in either one or both sensors will initiate isolation. A failure of one sensor in the nontrip mode will neither initiate isolation nor prevent the other sensor from initiating isolation on DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-41 high flow. Therefore, failure of any single component will not result in violation of primary containment isolation criteria. The isolation signal is sealed-in upon receipt, and in addition to closing the HPCI steam isolation valves, the signal blocks the auto-initiation of the HPCI subsystem.
The differential pressure (P) across the elbow taps at reactor vessel rated flow of 145,000 lb/hr of steam at 1135 psia and 102,500 lb/hr of steam at 165 psia is below the isolation trip setting.
The HPCI steam line isolates by high-flow indicative of an HPCI steam line break. The high steam flow trip setting is selected high enough to avoid spurious isolation yet low enough to provide timely detection of an HPCI steam line break. The isolation allowable value is 3 times maximum rated flow or 435,000 lb/hr of steam at the reactor vessel maximum operating pressure of 1135 psia, corresponding to a break size of approximately 0.05 square feet. The switches trip for flow in either direction, which protects against breaks on either side of the transducers. The HPCI high steam flow isolation incorporates a time delay setting (analytical limits: 3 seconds to 9 seconds) which prevents inadvertent isolation on high steam flow after the subsystem automatically initiates.
Analysis shows that only 3000 gal/min of saturated water is required to produce the isolation trip differential pressure. The sensor is designed to produce a signal indicative of steam flow. As such, it does not give a reliable indication of moisture carryover. However, should a water slug occur and pass down the HPCI steam line at a velocity near that of rated steam flow, an isolation signal would definitely be generated.
I. Four sets of temperature switches are used to detect high temperature in the vicinity of the HPCI turbine. Each set consists of four temperature switches connected in one-out-of-two-twice logic. The analytical limit for the switches is 200F. The one-out-of-two-twice logic was selected to avoid spurious trips since the area temperature closely approaches the setpoint (within 50F). This high temperature is indicative of steam leakage including that from the turbine shaft seals. This isolation signal is also sealed-in upon receipt, and blocks the auto-initiation logic of the HPCI subsystem.
J. Four pressure switches which are used to initiate low steam line pressure isolation are connected in a one-out-of-two-twice logic. The pressure switches initiate the trip before the reactor pressure decreases to the allowable value of 100 psig. The low-pressure signal provides automatic isolation of the turbine loop prior to stalling the turbine on low available energy. With the steam supply open to the turbine in the stalled condition, the reserve coolant in the gland seal condenser would ultimately rise in temperature, resulting in possible external steam leakage from the shaft seals. This isolation signal is not sealed-in. With the low-pressure condition present, the isolation signal will block the automatic initiation logic of the HPCI subsystem. If reactor pressure should rise above the pressure switch setpoint, the isolation signal will auto-reset, and the HPCI subsystem will auto-restart upon receipt of an initiation signal.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.3-42 K. The isolation condenser system has two flow measuring points: one in the steam line and the other in the condensate return line. Two differential pressure switches are used at each point; any one of the four switches can cause isolation.
7.3.2.4 Design Evaluation The discussion regarding reactor protection system reliability (Section 7.2) applies with equal validity to those portions of the primary containment isolation system using an identical, dual logic channel arrangement.
Double isolation valves are provided on lines penetrating the primary containment and open to the free space of the containment. Closure of one of the valves in each line would be sufficient to maintain the integrity of the pressure suppression system. Automatic initiation is required to minimize the potential leakage paths from the containment in the event of a LOCA.
Those large pipes comprising a portion of the reactor coolant system, whose failure could result in uncovering the reactor core, are supplied with automatic isolation valves (except those lines needed for ECCS operation or containment cooling). The closure times specified herein are adequate to prevent loss of more coolant from the circumferential rupture of any of these lines outside the containment than from a steam line rupture. Therefore, this isolation valve closure time is sufficient to prevent uncovering the core.
The logic for Groups 1, 2, and 5 primary containment isolation valves has been modified to prevent the valves from automatically opening when the isolation signal is reset. The margin of safety increases since it now requires an operator to individually open the valves.
Chapter 15 evaluates the response of the primary containment system subsequent to design basis accidents. In none of the cases analyzed do radioactive releases in excess of the limitations of 10 CFR 100 occur.
Manual initiation is available for all primary containment isolation functions.
Primary containment isolation control has its sensory functions separated in a manner similar to the reactor protection system (except for the main steam flow switches explained below) and its logic relays are included in the four protection system panels. Auxiliary relays are located in two separate cabinets: one for inboard and one for outboard valves. Cables to the redundant motor operated valves (ac inboard and dc outboard) are in separate trays or conduits as are cables to air-operated valves inside and outside the drywell (e.g., main steam isolation valves). Separation of wiring to redundant fail-closed valves outside the drywell (solenoid-piloted, air-operated valves on drywell ventilation systems) is not required because safe failures will result from any circuit damage considered credible.
Each main steam line has flow switches which operate from a single pair of sensing lines from each of the steam flow elements. Thus, a single sensing line failure can cause failure of four switches on a line. Such a failure is readily detectable by indication through the steam flow indication instruments. In addition, a measure of backup is provided by the temperature sensors in the pipe tunnel and flow DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-43 switches on the other three lines. Electrical circuit separation is maintained from the flow switches to the protection panels.
The arrangement of the high-flow isolation logic for the HPCI and isolation condenser systems is such that any one signal can cause isolation of the system. Any single component failure will not prevent isolation.
The HPCI isolation control function includes the sensors, trip channels, switches, and remotely activated valve closing mechanisms associated with the valves in the HPCI steam line, which when closed, effect isolation of the primary containment or reactor vessel, or both.
A failure of the low-pressure (reference) flow sensing line will appear as high flow to both sensors and initiate isolation. A failure of the high-pressure flow sensing line will drive both flow sensors downscale appearing as instrument failure (below zero reading on one or both sensors) and initiate isolation. Both flow sensors will read zero in event of failure of both flow sensing lines and neither will initiate isolation, however backup is provided by the pressure sensors described in the next paragraph.
The differential pressure (P) across the elbow taps at reactor vessel rated flow of 145,000 lb/hr of steam at 1135 psia, and at reactor vessel rated flow of 102,500 lb/hr of steam at 165 psia, is below the isolation trip setting.
The isolation allowable value is 3 times the rated flow, or 435,000 lb/hr of steam at 1135 psia. Analysis shows that only 3000 gal/min of saturated water would be required to produce the isolation trip differential pressure. The sensor is designed to produce a signal indicative of steam flow. As such, it does not give a reliable indication of moisture carryover. However, should a water slug occur and pass down the HPCI steam line at a velocity near that of rated steam flow, an isolation signal would definitely be generated.
There are four static pressure sensors piped to the same sensing lines as the flow sensors and connected in a one-out-of-two-twice logic that will initiate isolation in event of simultaneous failure of both sensing lines or upon low steam line static pressure. It is clear that no mode of failure of pressure or flow sensing devices will prevent isolation; although, inadvertent isolation will be initiated for some modes of failure.
The HPCI steam line isolation valves are also closed by high space temperature in the HPCI equipment compartment. Sixteen temperature switches are used for this function. The sixteen sensors are grouped, four to a group, and each group is connected in a one out of two twice logic to provide the isolation trip. The trip setting is 200F to automatically close the valves. This setting is well above the expected ambient condition but low enough to detect steam line leakage. Failure of any one sensor or group of sensors does not prevent isolation by the other sensors.
The HPCI turbine stop valve that closes off the steam line for system control purposes is not safety-related but does offer a secondary means of isolating the steam lines. The turbine stop valve closes as follows:
A. Reactor high water level trips the HPCI turbine stop valve upon an increase in normal operating level (Analytical Limit: 51" RWL).
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-44 This point is about 14 inches below the HPCI steam center-line outlet from the reactor. The stop valve is designed to close within 5 seconds following trip signal. The turbine control valves also close as a result of stop valve closure so that a double valve closure of the line is effective under trip conditions.
B. Pressure switches in the turbine exhaust line trip the stop valve upon high exhaust line pressure. In the event of two-phase mixture carryover with enough moisture to cause failure of the turbine thrust bearing, the turbine exhaust pressure would increase and initiate closure of the turbine stop valve to isolate the turbine.
7.3.2.5 Surveillance and Testing Since electrical components used in the primary containment isolation system are normally energized, most failures result in the deenergization of the component involved. Such failures initiate an alarm and/or a trip of one of the two channels. Surveillance is attained by this self-annunciation upon failure. Any failures which are not self-annunciating will be identified by a testing schedule; the schedule assures that such failures are found and corrected on a routine basis. Valves within the system may be tested periodically to verify operational capability.
7.3.2.6 Conformance to IEEE 279-1968
The following subsections present a point-by-point comparison of the containment isolation control system with the requirements of IEEE 279-1968 which has been summarized from GE Topical Report, NEDO-10139.
[2] For more detailed information, refer to the topical report.
7.3.2.6.1 General Functional Requirements A. Auto-Initiation of Appropriate Action - The control system action from sensor to final control signal to the valve actuator is capable of initiating appropriate action within a time commensurate with the need for valve closure. Total time assumed in the analysis, from the point where a process out-of-limits condition is sensed to the energizing or deenergizing of appropriate valve actuators, is less than the analytical limit of 500 milliseconds. The closure time of valves ranges upward from a minimum allowable of 3 seconds for the main steam isolation valves, depending upon the urgency for isolation considering possible release of radioactivity. Thus, it can be seen that the control initiation time is at least an order of magnitude lower than the minimum required valve closure time.
B. Precision - Accuracies of each of the sensing elements are sufficient to accomplish the isolation initiation within required limits without interfering with normal plant operation.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.3-45 C. Reliability - The reliability of the PCIS is compatible with and higher by at least an order of magnitude than the reliability of the actuated equipment (valves).
D. Action over the full range of environmental conditions - The corresponding discussion for core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.1) applies here to all isolation control equipment, except the manual control switches for the HPCI isolation valves. Since both of the control switches for the redundant valves are in the same control panel in the main control room, it is conceivable that destruction of this cabinet by fire or missile could affect the control of both valves in these two lines in such a way as to prevent the valves from closing. However, it is highly unlikely that such an event could occur coincident with an independent event requiring system isolation such as a steam line break. Refer to Sections 9.5.1 and 3.5 (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.1).
7.3.2.6.2 Single-Failure Criterion
The design of the PCIS fully complies with the single-failure criterion of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph
4.2.
7.3.2.6.3 Quality of Components and Modules
The discussion of component capability for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.3) also applies to the PCIS. However, most of the isolation control is deenergized to trip (instead of energized to trip).
Thus, failures that may occur in coil circuits, connections, or contacts are more likely to be noticed (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.3).
7.3.2.6.4 Equipment Qualifications
The discussion of equipment qualification for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.4) also applies to PCIS.
7.3.2.6.5 Channel Integrity
The discussion of channel integrity for the core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.5) also applies to PCIS. However, the fail-safe design of the isolation control and the operation of a grounded ac system improve fail-safe operation (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.5).
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 4 7.3-46 7.3.2.6.6 Channel Independence Channel independence for sensors exposed to each process variable is provided by electrical and mechanical separation (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.6). Physical separation is maintained between redundant elements of the redundant control systems where it adds to reliability of operation. The manual control switches for the HPCI isolation valves are an exception to this objective, but they are sufficiently separated to give a high degree of reliability and to meet a literal interpretation of Paragraph 4.6 of IEEE 279-1968.
7.3.2.6.7 Control and Protection Interaction
The isolation control system is a strictly on/off system, and no signal whose failure could cause a need for isolation can also prevent it (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.7).
7.3.2.6.8 Derivation of System Inputs The inputs which initiate isolation valve closure are direct measures of variables that indicate a need for isolation (such as reactor vessel low level, drywell high pressure, and pipe break detection)
(IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.8). Pipe break detection utilizes methods of recognition of the presence of a material that has escaped from the pipe rather than detecting actual physical changes in the pipe itself.
7.3.2.6.9 Capability for Sensor Checks
The reactor vessel instruments including level, pressure, radiation, and flow, can be checked one at a time by application of simulated signals (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.9). Temperature sensors along the main steam lines are testable only during shutdown, but they are sufficient in number so that testing between refueling outages is not necessary to achieve the reliability level required.
Temperature sensors can be checked periodically by removing them and applying heat to the sensitive zone, or by oven calibration, which requires removing the sensors from the circuit and replacing them with calibrated units.
7.3.2.6.10 Capability for Test and Calibration
All active components of PCIS, with the exception of the main steam line high temperature sensors can be tested and calibrated during plant operation (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.10).
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 2 7.3-47 7.3.2.6.11 Channel Bypass or Removal from Operation Calibration of any sensor introduces a single instrument channel trip. This trip does not cause a protective function without the coincident trip of at least one other instrument channel, except for the HPCI system where leak detection flow sensors have a one-out-of-two logic (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.11).
7.3.2.6.12 Operating Bypasses The only bypass in PCIS is the main steam line low-pressure bypass which is imposed by the mode switch when the switch is not in the run mode. The mode switch cannot be left in other than RUN with neutron flux measuring power above 15% of rated power without imposing a scram. Therefore the bypass is considered to be removed in accordance with the intent of IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.12; although manual action removes the bypass, rather than an automatic one. In the case of the motor-operated valves, automatic or manual closure can be prevented by shutting off electric power.
7.3.2.6.13 Indication of Bypasses The bypass of the main steam line low-pressure isolation signal is not indicated directly in the control room except by the position of the mode switch. This switch is under strict operator control.
Its specific bypass functions are a matter of operator training. Therefore, no bypass indication is required when the mode switch is not in RUN. Since the bypass is not removed by any automatic action, it is positively in effect any time the mode switch is in position to impose it (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.13).
7.3.2.6.14 Access to Means for Bypassing
The mode switch is the only bypass switch affecting PCIS, and it is centrally located on the main control console (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.14).
7.3.2.6.15 Multiple Trip Settings
IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.15, which deals with multiple trip settings, is not applicable because all setpoints are unique.
7.3.2.6.16 Completion of Protection Action Once Initiated All isolation decisions are sealed-in downstream of the decision-making logic, so valves go to the closed position, which ends protective action (IEEE 279-1968, DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.3-48 Paragraph 4.16). Manual reset action is provided by a three-position reset switch so that inboard valves can be reset independent of outboard valves.
The HPCI isolation valve reset is separated from the reset for the rest of the isolation valves.
7.3.2.6.17 Manual Actuation
All isolation valves are capable of manual actuation independent of active components of the automatic actuation circuitry, with the exception of the motor starters for the motor-operated valves (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.17).
7.3.2.6.18 Access to Setpoint Adjustments The discussion of access to setpoint adjustments for core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.18) is also applicable to PCIS.
7.3.2.6.19 Identification of Protective Actions The statements regarding identification of protective actions for core spray system (Section 7.3.1.1.1.19) are applicable to PCIS.
7.3.2.6.20 Information Readout
The following information is presented to the operator:
A. Annunciation of each process variable which has reached a trip point;
B. Computer readout of trips from main steam line tunnel temperature or main steam line excess flow;
C. Control power failure annunciation on each channel; D. Annunciation of steam leaks in each of the systems monitored, such as, main steam, reactor water cleanup, and HPCI; and
E. Open and closed position lights for each isolation valve.
This information is considered to fulfill the requirements for information readout (IEEE 279-1968, Paragraph 4.20).
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 2 7.3-48a 7.3.2.6.21 System Repair Those components which are expected to have a moderate need for replacement (including the temperature amplifier units and thermocouples in the ventilation ducts) are designed for convenient removal. The amplifier units employ a circuit card or replaceable module construction and the thermocouples or resistance temperature detectors are replaceable units with disconnectable heads. Pressure sensors, vessel level sensors, etc., can be replaced in a reasonable length of time, but are considered to be permanently installed. They have nonwelded connections at the instrument which allow replacement.
7.3.3 Secondary Containment Isolation System
The secondary containment isolation system is described in Section 6.2.3.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.3-49 7.3.4 Isolation Condenser Instrumentation and Control The isolation condenser provides reactor core cooling in the event that the reactor becomes isolated from the main condenser by closure of the main steam isolation valves. The isolation condenser is described in Section 5.4.6. The PCIS description relating to the isolation condenser is in Section 7.3.2. The isolation condenser is automatically placed in service on a sustained high reactor pressure signal as defined in the Technical Specifications in a one-out-of-two-twice logic. This initiation signal will close the vent line valves and open the outboard condensate return valve, completing the flow path through the isolation condenser. The maximum time delay allowable value for reactor pressure to be above the actuation setpoint is < 15 seconds for initiation of the isolation condenser function.
The isolation condenser steam supply lines have a vent line which returns steam and noncondensibles to the "A" main steam line. The two valves in the vent line automatically close on one of the following signals:
A. Isolation condenser initiation (one-out-of-two logic);
B. Isolation condenser line break (PCIS signal) (one-out-of-two logic); and
C. Main steam line isolation signal (one-out-of-two twice logic).
The isolation condenser return valve control switch has PULL-TO-LOCK, CLOSE, AUTO, and OPEN positions, with spring return to AUTO from the CLOSE position to avoid the inadvertent override of an initiation signal. The AUTO and OPEN positions are maintained contact. The PULL-TO-LOCK position overrides the automatic signals to reopen and permits valve isolation with deliberate operator action.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.3-50 7.3.5 References
- 1. 10 CFR 50 Appendix A, General Design Criteria (GDC) 57, Closed System Isolation Valves.
- 2. General Electric Topical Report, NEDO-10139, Compliance of Protection Systems to Industry Criteria: General Electric BWR Nuclear Steam Supply System, June 1970.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 6 June 2005 (Sheet 1 of 1)
Table 7.3-1 GROUP ISOLATION SI GNALS AND SETPOINTS Valve Isolation Group Isolation Signal
Analytical Limit Group 1 Reactor low-low water level Main steam line high flow Main steam line tunnel high
temperature Main steam line low pressure -59 in.
125% of rated flow (Unit 2) 140% of rated flow (Unit 3) 200 F 785 psig Group 2 Reactor low water level High drywell pressure High drywell radiation level 0 in. 2 psig 100 R/hr Group 3 Reactor low water level 0 in. Group 4 HPCI steam line high flow HPCI vicinity high temperature
Low reactor pressure 300% rated steamflow 200 F 100 psig Group 5 High flow isolation condenser st e a m supply High flow isolation condenser condensate return 300% rated steamflow
32 in.H 2O differential (Unit 2) 14.8 in.H 2O differential (Unit 3)
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 2 7.4-1 7.4 SAFE SHUTDOWN The following section describes the instrumentation and control system aspects of the containment cooling mode of the low pressure coolant injection (LPCI) system. This section also provides a description of shutdown outside the control room.
7.4.1 Containment Cooling The containment cooling function is provided by the low pressure coolant injection system after the core is flooded. Suppression pool water can be recirculated through the heat exchangers for cooling. The cooled water can also be used to spray the drywell and/or torus. For a complete description of the design basis, system functions and components, refer to Section 6.2.
The containment cooling mode of LPCI is initiated manually from the control room by alignment of the proper combination of valves, pumps, and heat exchangers. No automatic start function is provided.
A LPCI initiation signal actuates interlocks which close valves to prevent flow to the suppression pool and containment sprays, thus directing all LPCI flow to the core. With a LPCI initiation signal present, the containment spray normal manual keylock switch must be placed in the MANUAL position to permit alignment of flow for suppression pool cooling or for containment sprays. Placing this switch in MANUAL also permits opening the outboard injection valve in the loop not selected by the LPCI loop selection logic. This provides capability for suppression pool cooling through one loop while injecting through the other.
A LPCI initiation signal also trips any running containment cooling service water (CCSW) pumps and prevents starting CCSW pumps unless the containment cooling service pumps permissive keylock switch is placed in the MANUAL OVERRIDE position.
Two level transmitters are used to monitor water level inside the core shroud. If the water level drops below 2/3 core height, interlocks close valves in the flow paths for suppression pool cooling and containment sprays. The 2/3 core height permissive keylock switch in conjunction with the containment spray permissive keylock switch allows these valves to be opened, if necessary, when placed in the MANUAL OVERRIDE position. The 2/3 core height interlock uses a one-out-of-one logic.
To initiate or maintain drywell and/or torus spray, drywell pressure must be above the low limit setpoint. This parameter is measured by two pressure switches per division arranged in one-out-of-two-twice logic. This condition does not have a bypass switch.
Once containment cooling has been placed in operation, if any of the preceding requirements do not continue to be either met or bypassed, the associated valves will close to allow full LPCI injection flow.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.4-2 7.4.2 Shutdown Outside the Control Room
Because fire protection is afforded in the control room and smoke protection masks are available, there is a very low probability that control room habitability would be lost.
The plant design facilitates bringing the reactor to the hot shutdown condition. The operator scrams the reactor, closes the main steam isolation valves (MSIVs) and inhibits the automatic depressurization system (ADS). To initiate cooldown of the reactor, the water return valve from the isolation condenser is opened, placing the isolation condenser in operation. The operator then leaves the control room. Since the MSIVs are closed, makeup requirements are minimal and can be met by the control rod drive (CRD) system.
After leaving the control room, various steps are taken by procedure (Dresden Safe Shutdown Procedures) to insure that a fire will not cause the spurious actuation of equipment. The reactor water level can be monitored at two different instrument racks located in the reactor building. Reactor vessel pressure is also displayed on these instrument racks. The operation of the isolation condenser system and the isolation condenser makeup system can be controlled from the reactor building. Further detail on makeup to the isolation condenser is provided in Section 5.4.6.
The above actions place the reactor in a safe, cooldown mode with essentially no coolant inventory loss, yet makeup capability remains available via the feedwater system, either automatically or manually and the control rod drive pumps. The feedwater pumps and control rod drive pumps can be shut off manually to prevent overfilling the reactor vessel.
Operation of the isolation condenser would be continued until the reactor temperature decreases to about 350F. At this time, the shutdown cooling system can be initiated to continue the cooldown. The initiation of the shutdown cooling system can be accomplished at remote stations. The closed cooling water system would have been in operation prior to evacuation of the control room. Cooldown with the shutdown cooling system could be continued indefinitely.
Required communications can be made from each location outside the control room where shutdown activities are performed or monitored using local communications equipment.
Various systems such as the diesel generators, diesel generator cooling water system, reactor building closed cooling water system, and the service water system are available to provide necessary support functions for the alternate s hutdown system. Local control and monitoring capability for these support systems is also provided.
During the entire shutdown process, no reliance is placed on regaining entry to the control room. Instrumentation is provided which enables the operator to observe the reactor vessel level and pressure while the cooldown is made. Thus, a safe shutdown of the reactor can be made to a cold shutdown condition without access to the main control room.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.4-3 For a more detailed discussion of safe shutdown and 10 CFR 50 Appendix R requirements, see Section 9.5.1 and the Fire Protection Report.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.5-1 7.5 DISPLAY INSTRUMENTATION The following section describes display instrumentation required by the operator for operation and safe shutdown of the unit, under normal and post-a ccident conditions. Included is a discussion of instruments classified as post-accident monitors, a description of the process computer, a description of the safety parameter display system, and a summary of the detailed control room design review.
7.5.1 Post-Accident Monitors Certain instruments have been designated as po st-accident monitors, and as such have been determined to comply with Regulatory Guide 1.97.
[1] These instruments are identified in the Master Equipment List (MEL).
7.5.1.1 Description Post-accident monitoring instruments are assigned to meet one of three design categories described in detail in regulatory position 1.4 of Regulatory Guide 1.97. Category 1 requirements are the most stringent, with requirements very similar to requirements for safety-related instruments. Category 2 requirements are not quite as stringent, but many of the same standards are recommended.
Category 3 instruments are commercial grade.
In accordance with R.G. 1.97, process variables used in post-accident monitoring are grouped into 5 types: A, B, C, D, and E. The following definitions are from the regulatory guide and explain the basis for a given variable being listed in a given category.
Type A variables are those variables to be monitored that provide the primary information needed to permit the control room operating personnel to take the specified manually controlled actions for which no automatic control is provided and that are required for safety systems to accomplish their safety functions for design basis accident events. Primary information is information that is essential for the direct accomplishment of the specified safety functions; it does not include those variables that are associated with contingency actions that may also be identified in written procedures. A variable included as Type A does not preclude it from being included as Type B, C, D or E, or vice versa.
Type B variables are those variables that provide information to indicate whether plant safety functions are being accomplished. Plant safety functions are reactivity control, core cooling, maintaining reactor coolant system integrity, and maintaining containment integrity (including radioactive effluent control). Variables are listed (in Regulatory Guide 1.97) with designated ranges and category for design and qualification requirements. Key variables are indicated by design and qualification as Category 1.
Type C variables are those variables that provide information to indicate the potential for breaching or the actual breach of the barriers to fission product DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.5-2 releases. The barriers are fuel cladding, primary coolant pressure boundary, and containment.
Type D variables are those variables that provide information to indicate the operation of individual safety systems and other systems important to safety. These variables are to help the operator make appropriate decisions in using the individual sy stems important to safety in mitigating the consequences of an accident.
Type E variables are those variables to be monitored as required for use in determining the magnitude of the release of radioactive materials and in continually assessing such releases.
Type A, B, and C variables relate to the determination of the safety condition of the plant and provide the operator with the information to perform tasks needed to mitigate accidents. The following parameters have been identified as Type A variables per R.G. 1.97:[1] A. Coolant level in the reactor; B. Reactor pressure;
C. Drywell pressure;
D. Suppression chamber pressure; E. Suppression pool water level; and F. Suppression pool water temperature.
The instruments monitored by these variables meet the intent of Category 1 requirements per R.G.
1.97,[1] or deviations from these requirements have been justified.
The Master Equipment List identifies the instrument numbers and the variable types associated with these parameters.
The seismic qualification criteria for these instruments are described in Section 3.10.
7.5.1.2 Analysis
A review of the post-accident monitoring instruments indicated that Dresden Station is in compliance with the intent of R.G. 1.97. Control room instrumentation provides sufficient information for operators to identify, mitigate, and monitor all design basis accidents.
The following sections provide details of Dresden acceptability with respect to seismic, power, environmental, and separation requirements.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.5-3 7.5.1.2.1 Seismic Qualification Safety-related instruments installed prior to R.G. 1.97 that either fulfilled the requirements of R.G.
1.97, Revision 2, Category 1, or were previously designated as seismic by the 1980 FSAR Safety-Related and ASME Classification Valve, Equipmen t, and Instrument List, the Master Equipment List, or the instrument data sheets did not undergo further seismic qualification. Replacement instruments, or new instruments installed to meet R.G. 1.97, meet the seismic requirements of IEEE 344-1975 and station requirements. Safety-related instrument racks have been seismically upgraded by adding bracing as required (refer to Section 3.10).
7.5.1.2.2 Environmental Qualification
In order to show that electrical equipment important to safety is capable of functioning in a harsh environment, CECo provided a response to IEB 79-01B for Dresden Station Units 2 and 3. Environmental zone maps were established which identified the temperature, pressure, humidity, and radiation values in various locations of the station (refer to Section 3.11). Equipment which performed a safety-related or R.G. 1.97 Category 1 or Category 2 function and was required to function or not to fail in a fashion as to impair the ability of other equipment to perform their safety-related function while exposed to the harsh environment following the associated design basis event was included in the program to be environmentally qualified. Equipment located in a mild environment, regardless of its function, was not required to be environmentally qualified.
The analysis applied the 10 CFR 50.49.k rule allowing the use of instrumentation qualified under the IEB 79-01B program. Instruments not covered under the IEB 79-01B program, but required to fulfill Category 1 or Category 2 requirements of R.G. 1.97, are qualified under the station environmental qualification (EQ) program (refer to Section 3.11).
Required instrument cables are included in the environmental qualification program. Under this program, the cable tabulations were checked to catalogue instrument cables by manufacturer and cable type. The purchase specifications for these cable types were then checked to identify the approved vendors. The EQ program included original station design instrumentation cable.
7.5.1.2.3 Redundancy of Power
Power sources for instrumentation have been verified for their ability to provide power under post-accident conditions. Each instrument bus has a main source and at least one backup or reserve source of power. See Section 8.3 for power supply information.
Each Category 1 variable is redundant to ensure that at least one channel is available to provide the necessary information to the operator. In strumentation for every Category 1 variable, with the exception of valve position indication, has a redundant loop that receives power from an alternate bus.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.5-4 Neither Category 2 nor Category 3 instrumentation requires redundant monitoring channels. Therefore, only one power source for these categories of monitoring instrumentation is required. Even though this station received its construction permit prior to the categorization of power sources as Class 1E or non-1E, the power sources and the reserve sources provide the required reliability to meet the intent of R.G. 1.97.
This station was licensed before R.G. 1.75 established the requirements for physical independence of electrical systems. Existing instrumentation used for post-accident monitoring does not follow these separation requirements. To fulfill a Category 1 requirement, new instrument loops added after August 1, 1985, will comply with the requirements of R.G. 1.75 whenever possible.
7.5.2 Process Computer This section contains information on the process computer programs, the function of the process computer, the operation of its major components, and the different kinds of programs comprising the computer software. Section 8.3.1.4.4 describes the computer UPS in more detail. Section 7.5.2.2 describes in more detail the computer equipment (excluding rod worth minimizer hardware) with which the plant operator is primarily concerned and provides functional and operating descriptions for the Nuclear Steam Supply System (NSSS), Balance of Plant (BOP), and Scan, Log and Alarm (SLA) programs. Section 7.5.3 provides details of the SPDS program.
7.5.2.1 System Description The Dresden Process Computers are a distributed process computer system that provides on-line monitoring of over 1500 input points (digital, pulse, and analog) representing significant plant process variables. The system scans digital and analog inputs at specified intervals and issues appropriate alarm indications and messages if monitored analog values exceed predefined limits or if digital trip signals occur. It performs calculations with selected input data to provide the operator with essential core performance information through a variety of logs, trends, displays, and summaries. Computer outputs include various front panel displays (digital lights, trend recorders and color graphic displays). By making a wide range of plant performance data immediately available, in a summary format, the computer greatly increases the speed with which operating personnel can respond to changing plant conditions. It thereby contributes significantly to the maintenance of optimum core power distribution, economical utilization of nuclear fuel, and overall plant operating efficiency.
In general, the process computer system drives all peripherals that display or log real-time data, while a separate computer drives all devices which run the nuclear program for core calculation. Typical peripherals include: operator workstations, printers and color graphic displays.
7.5.2.2 Equipment Operation
Analog voltage and current inputs representing reactor flux levels, flows, pressures, temperatures, and power levels are applied directly to the I/O cabinets. Digital inputs for both units, which include various trips and alarms, traversing incore probe (TIP) system signals, control rod positions, rod worth minimizer (RWM) inputs and pulse inputs for TIP positions are applied directly to the I/O cabinets. The process computer performs calculations required for the programs being run, assigns priorities to the various programs and computer functions, and provides for data storage.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.5-5 An alarm horn is included in the nuclear station operator (NSO) console to provide audible alarm indications. The alarm horn is sounded under program control as a result of various alarm or abnormal conditions.
Included with the process computer system are two trend recorders, located in panel 902-5(903-5).
Each is a two-pen strip chart recorder. Each of the four pens on the two recorders can be individually selected from the NSO request CRT for trending of selected analog values.
The Station Process Computers are located in the Station's Main Computer Room which is located in the Unit 1 Turbine Building ground floor.
7.5.2.3 Operational Functions This subsection contains program descriptions for the NSSS periodic and on-demand programs. These programs calculate and edit the periodic, daily, and monthly core performance logs and provide a variety of operator-demandable data arrays related to nuclear boiler performance.
The NSSS periodic and on-demand programs operate within the constraints of the static and dynamic priority structures, as do certain associated interface and control programs.
The current NSSS programs perform the calculations required to provide reactor core performance information. The core monitoring software system is run on a separate computer. The core monitoring software is the heart of the NSSS programs. It runs periodically at specified intervals and is triggered based on specified plant conditions, calculating fuel assembly power, flows, void distributions, peak heat fluxes, critical power ratios, and reactor operating thermal limits. This information is output on a periodic basis supplying operating personnel with the current status of significant nuclear system parameters. This information is stored to provide a historical record of these important nuclear parameters. Another useful feature of the core monitoring software is the predictive mode which can assist the nuclear engineer in deciding operating strategy by predicting future core conditions based on present or past power and exposure distributions.
The computer is interfaced with the process computer which supplies the core monitoring software with the appropriate plant operating data. The process computer also provides various demandable programs used by operating personnel to display information (pressures, flows, temperatures, etc.). These programs are used in conjunction with the TIP system for performing whole core or individual LPRM calibrations. This integrated system provides operating personnel with a reliable method of monitoring core and plant performance information.
7.5.2.3.3 Scan, Log, and Alarm Programs/ Steam Electric Evaluation and Recording Programs Scan, log, and alarm programs perform continuous monitoring of process input points, test scanned analog values against prescribed process and sensor limits, and issue appropriate alarm messages and indications if these limits are exceeded or if digital trip signals occur.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.5-6 7.5.2.3.4 Balance of Plant Program The balance of plant program runs automatically at regular intervals and performs calculation of plant performance data not directly related to the nuclear system.
7.5.3 Safety Parameter Display System
Supplement 1 of NUREG-0737 required all operating plants to provide a Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) in the control room. The purpose of SPDS is to provide a concise display of critical plant variables to aid in rapidly and reliably determining the safety status of the plant. NUREG-0737 required that SPDS provide, as a minimum, information concerning:
A. Reactivity control; B. Reactor core cooling and heat removal from the primary system;
C. Reactor coolant system integrity; D. Radioactivity control; and DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.5-7 E. Containment conditions.
These functions have been designated as critical safety functions. The parameters required for these functions include:
A. Reactivity control
- 1. Average power range monitor
- 2. Source range monitor B. Core cooling
- 1. Reactor water level
- 2. Core spray system status
C. Reactor coolant system integrity
- 1. Reactor vessel pressure
- 2. Drywell pressure
- 3. Containment activity
- 4. Safety relief valve (SRV) position
- 5. Isolation valve status
D. Radioactivity control
- 1. Main stack monitor
- 2. Off-gas pretreatment monitor
- 3. Standby gas treatment monitor
- 4. Liquid discharge monitors
E. Containment conditions
- 1. Drywell pressure
- 2. Drywell temperature
- 3. Suppression pool level
- 4. Suppression pool temperature
- 5. Containment isolation valve status
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.5-8 7.5.3.1 Description The SPDS is displayed on color graphics displays in the control room and technical support center for key plant parameters. The system takes its input from several sources for each parameter and determines which sensors are valid. It then calculates the best value from available sensors.
Displayed colors have the following significance:
A. Red - indicates an alarm condition with a parameter being in an abnormal state, B. Yellow - indicates an alert (pre-alarm) condition, C. Cyan (light blue) - means input is invalid or inoperable, and
D. Green - indicates a normal condition of a parameter.
The SPDS at Dresden is a software package incorporated into the process computer, a nonsafety-related system utilizing computer inputs for data. The computer has been suitably isolated from safety-related process inputs.
Safety Parameter Display System Displayed Variables Reactor vessel water level is displayed by a bar chart. The chart indicates the present level. The color of the chart reflects the condition of water level. In addition, a digital reading of current level and rate of change of level is displayed above the chart and an arrow indicating trend is displayed. (This is also applicable to the following parameters).
Reactor vessel pressure is displayed by a bar chart. The chart indicates the present reactor pressure. The color of the chart reflects the condition of reactor pressure.
Drywell pressure is displayed by a bar chart. The chart indicates the present drywell pressure. The color of the chart reflects the condition of drywell pressure.
Drywell temperature is displayed by a bar chart. The chart indicates the present drywell temperature. The color of the chart reflects the condition of drywell temperature.
Torus water level is displayed by a bar chart. The scale reflects the reading of the narrow and wide range torus level instrumentation. The color of the bar reflects the condition of the torus level.
Torus water temperature is displayed by a bar chart. The chart indicates the present temperature. The color of the bar reflects the condition of torus temperature.
Reactor power is displayed by a bar chart. The chart indicates the present reactor power. The color of the bar reflects the condition of reactor power. The background will turn red for an unverified scram.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.5-9 A safety relief valve status box monitors the status of all relief valves and safety valves based on a signal from the acoustic monitors. The box displays the word OPEN if any valve is open and CLSD if all valves are closed. In addition, the color of the box shows the status of the relief valves. If a relief valve should be open (based on plant parameters) and a valve indicates open, the box will be green. If no valve is open when a valve is required to be open, then the box will be red. When plant conditions do not require a relief valve to be open, and all valves indicate CLSD, the box will be green. If plant conditions require all valves closed, and a valve indicates open, the box will be red.
The core spray box indicates the status of the core spray system. The words ON and OFF are used to indicate the status. If a core spray pump is running with adequate flow, the box indicates ON. If both pumps are off, or inadequate flow is indicated, the box will display OFF. In addition, the color of the box gives the status of core spray. If a core spray initiation signal is present and core spray is off, the box will be red. The box will be green when there is no core spray initiation signal and core spray is off, or when there is an initiation signal and core spray is on.
The PCIS box indicates the status of the Group 1 and 2 isolations. The box is green when no isolation signals are present, or when at least one valve in each process line is closed for the lines in the isolation groups which have an isolation signal. The box is red when an isolation signal is present and a line in that isolation group does not have at least one valve closed.
The RAD RELEASE box displays the status of the release paths for radioactive release. The systems monitored are the main chimney, the reactor build ing stack, the off-gas system, the service water system, and the liquid radwaste effluent monitor. If a monitor in any of these paths indicates a release alarm above a predetermined setpoint, the box turns red. When no release from any path is indicated, the box turns green. If monitoring is lost to any release path, the box turns cyan, indicating invalid data. Any sensor indicating release above its setpoint will drive the color red regardless of the status of the other release paths.
The CONTAIN RAD box will be red and read HIGH if any of the process computer inputs for the drywell and torus monitors are in high alarm or if any one input is offscale high, otherwise it will be green and read NORM. The CONTAIN RAD box will be cyan if all the inputs are offscale and none are upscale and the wording will be NORM/HIGH.
Invalid data to SPDS is indicated by the color cyan. With the exception of radioactive release, all parameters are monitored by multiple sensors. When all sensors for a parameter are lost, the bar chart or box for that parameter turn s cyan. The bar charts will indicate full scale. This does not mean that the parameter is reading full scale, but only that the computer input for that parameter is not valid.
7.5.3.2 Analysis A human factors review of SPDS was conducted as part of the detailed control room design review (DCRDR). SPDS was evaluated to ensure that the design of the installed SPDS complied with sound human factors engineering principles and to verify the parameter selection by referring to the task analysis data collected during the DCRDR and the criteria established in NUREG-0737, Supplement
- 1.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 3 7.5-10 The human factors evaluation assessed the appropriateness and completeness of the information available through the SPDS, the effectiveness of the display format and coding techniques, the location and positioning of the CRTs in the control room, the readability of the display given hardware and environment factors, and the adequacy of procedures and documentation for interpreting the display.
To assure that the parameters displayed on SPDS adequately monitor plant safety status during emergency conditions (which is accomplished by monitoring the critical safety functions), a comparison was made between the DCRDR task analysis and the SPDS display parameters.
The findings of the DCRDR evaluation confirmed that the parameters displayed on SPDS indicate the accomplishment or maintenance of plant safety functions. Discrepancies identified during the data collection phase represented minor modifications to SPDS. The verification and validation of SPDS confirmed that the final product met the criteria of NUREG-0737, Supplement 1.
7.5.4 Detailed Control Room Design Review Commonwealth Edison committed to performing a detailed control room design review (DCRDR) in accordance with NUREG-0737, Supplement 1. NUREG-0700 was used as a guide for developing the Human Factors Engineering Design Criteria and Standards Manual. Items which did not conform to the requirements of the Human Factors Engineering Design Criteria and Standards Manual were documented as human engineering discrepancies (HEDs). The significance of each HED was addressed by the human engineering discrepancy assessment team (HEDAT), which was composed of station, corporate, and consultant representatives. The HEDAT either justified each of the HEDs as acceptable or proposed a resolution of individual HEDs to the NRC. A schedule for resolution was also determined by the HEDAT.
The purpose of the DCRDR was to assess and evaluate the control room work space, instrumentation, controls, and other equipment from a human engineering perspective. The process took into account both system demands and operating capacities and then identified essential and select control room improvements which would correct inadequate or unacceptable items. The ultimate goal was to ensure that proper human engineering principles and practices were incorporated into the design of the control room to help ensure the ability of control room operators to prevent accidents or cope wi th accidents if they occur.
The investigative process included the following elements:
A. A control room survey which compared control room design features with CECo Human Factors Guidelines;
B. A verification of instrumentation and control availability and the verification that operator task performance is not affected by the operator/control board interface; and
C. A validation of the control room functions to ensure the functions allocated to the control room operating crew can be accomplished within the structure of the defined emergency operating procedures and the design of the control room as it exists.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.5-11 7.5.5 References
- 1. "Instrumentation for Light-Water Cooled Nuclear Power Plants to A ssess Plant and Environs Conditions During and Following an Accident," NRC Regulatory Guide 1.97, Revision 2, December 1980.
- 2. "Supplement 1 to NUREG-0737-Requirements for Emergency Response Capability," Generic Letter 82-33.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 6 June 2005 7.7-1 7.7 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION This section discusses instrument ation and control systems whose functions are not essential for the safety of the plant. These systems include the following:
A. Reactor control rod control systems, including:
- 1. Control rod adjustment control, 2. Rod block interlocks,
- 3. Rod position indication system (RPIS), and
- 4. Control room indicators and alarms.
B. Rod worth minimizer (RWM);
C. Recirculation flow control; D. Pressure regulator and turbine-generator controls; E. Feedwater (reactor level) controls; and F. Condenser, condensate, and condensate demineralizer controls.
7.7.1 Reactor Control Rod Control Systems 7.7.1.1 Design Bases The reactor control rod control system, in conjunction with the recirculation flow control system discussed in Sections 7.7.3 and 5.4.1, is designed to:
A. Provide capability to control reactor power level;
B. Provide capability to balance the power distribution within the reactor core;
C. Prevent a single component malfunction or single operator error from causing damage to the reactor or reactor coolant system;
D. Prevent a malfunction from interfering with plant protective functions; and
E. Provide the reactivity control capability to prevent fuel damage by meeting the specific core characteristics, parameters, and limitations listed and described in Sections 4.2, 4.3, and 4.4.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.7-2 7.7.1.2 Control Rod Adjustment Control (Reactor Manual Control System) 7.7.1.2.1 Control Rod Adjustment Control Withdrawing a control rod inserts positive reactivity, causing reactor power to increase until the negative reactivity resulting from increased boiling, void formation, and fuel temperature balance the change in reactivity caused by the rod withdrawal. An increased voiding rate tends to raise reactor vessel pressure, causing the pressure regulator to open the turbine control valves to maintain a constant turbine inlet pressure. When a control rod is inserted, the converse effect takes place.
The hydraulic portion of the control rod drive system is described and evaluated in Section 4.6. Each control rod has its own drive, including separate control and scram devices. Each rod is electrically and hydraulically independent of the others, except that a common hydraulic pressure source is used for normal operation and a common discharge volume is used for scram operation. Each rod has an individual pressure source for scram operation. Rod position is mechanically controlled by the design of the rod index tube and collet assembly.
Scram operation of all rods is completely independent of the circuitry involved in rod positioning during normal operation. Scram operation is described in Section 7.2.
Electrical power for the reactor manual control system (RMCS) is received from an instrument bus and the essential service system (ESS) bus which is fed from the uninterruptible power supply (UPS). The control rod drive system is actuated for normal operation by energizing solenoid-operated valves which direct the drive water to insert or withdraw the rod.
Control rods are operated one at a time and are withdrawn in preplanned, symmetrical patterns. The allowable patterns have been chosen such that control rod worths will remain below the fuel damage limits and power distribution in the core will be properly balanced. The rod selected for withdrawal is electrically and mechanically controlled so that movement is not more than 6-inches (one notch) at a time. The one notch withdrawal restriction may be overridden by the operator simultaneously manipulating two switches.Multiple notch rod insertions can be accomplished by holding the rod movement control in the rod in position.
7.7.1.2.2 Rod Block Interlocks To prevent inadvertent withdrawals in improper rod patterns, the movement of a control rod is prohibited (rod block) under certain conditions described below (see Figure 7.7-1). Some of these rod blocks are in effect only for specific positions of the mode selector switch. With the mode switch in SHUTDOWN, no control rod can be withdrawn. This enforces compliance with the intent of the shutdown mode.
A. The circuitry is arranged to initiate a rod block regardless of the mode selector switch position for any of the following conditions.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.7-3 1. Average power range monitor (APRM) high-flux alarm - the purpose of this rod block function is to avoid conditions that would require reactor protection system action if allowed to proceed. The APRM upscale rod block alarm setting is selected to initiate a rod block before the APRM high neutron flux scram setting is reached. The APRM system is also recirculation flow referenced in the RUN mode to initiate trip signals to inhibit rod withdrawal to prevent operating the reactor at excessive power levels with reduced recirculation flow.
- 2. Any APRM inoperative alarm - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn unless the average power range neutron monitoring channels are either in service or properly bypassed.
- 3. Either rod block monitor (RBM) upscale (high-flux alarm) - this function is provided to stop the erroneous withdrawal of a control rod so that local fuel damage does not result. Although local fuel damage poses no significant threat in terms of radioactive material release from the nuclear system, the trip setting is selected so that no local fuel damage results from a single control rod withdrawal error during power range operation. The RBM system is also recirculation flow referenced and operates when power is above 30%.
- 4. Either RBM inoperative - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn unless the RBM channels are in service or properly bypassed.
- 5. APRM flow unit upscale or inoperative - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn unless the recirculation flow converters, which are necessary for the proper operation of the RBMs, and APRM system are operable.
- 6. Scram discharge volume high water level - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn unless enough capacity is available in the scram discharge volume to accommodate a scram. The setting is selected to initiate a rod block prior to the scram signal that is initiated on scram discharge volume high water level.
- 7. The rod worth minimizer (RWM) rod block - this occurs whenever the rod selection is incorrect or the rod being moved has traveled one notch further than the preplanned rod pattern allows. The operation of the RWM is described in Section 7.7.2.
- 8. Rod movement timer switch malfunction.
B. With the mode selector switch in RUN, either of the following conditions also initiate a rod block:
- 1. Any APRM downscale alarm - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn during power range operation unless the average power range neutron monitoring channels are operating properly or are correctly bypassed. All unbypassed APRMs must be on scale during reactor operation in the RUN mode, or DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.7-4 2. Either RBM downscale alarm - this assu res that no control rod is withdrawn during power range operation unless the RBM channels are operating properly or are correctly bypassed. Unbypassed RBMs must be on scale during reactor operation in the RUN mode.
C. With the mode selector switch in STARTUP/HOT STANDBY or REFUEL any of the following conditions also initiate a rod block:
- 1. Any source range monitor (SRM) detector not fully inserted into core with the SRM count level low - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn unless all SRM detectors are properly inserted when they must be relied upon to provide the operator with neutron flux level information,
- 2. Any SRM upscale (high-flux alarm) - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn unless the SRM detectors are properly retracted during a reactor startup. The rod block setting is selected at the upper end of the range over which the SRM is designed to detect and measure neutron flux, 3. Any SRM inoperative - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn during low neutron flux level operations without having proper neutron monitoring capability available, in that all SRM channels are in service or properly bypassed, 4. Any intermediate range monitor (IRM) detector not fully inserted into core - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn during low neutron flux level operations unless proper neutron monitoring capability is available, in that all IRM detectors are properly located,
- 5. Any IRM upscale (high-flux alarm) - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn unless the intermediate range neutron monitoring equipment is properly upranged during a reactor startup. This rod block also provides a means to stop rod withdrawal in time to avoid conditions requiring RPS action (scram) in the event that a rod withdrawal error is made during low neutron flux level operations,
- 6. Any IRM downscale except when on the lowest range - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn during low neutron flux level operations unless the neutron flux is being properly monitored. This rod block prevents the continuation of a reactor startup if the operator upranges the IRM too far for the existing flux level; thus, the rod block ensures that the intermediate range monitor is onscale if control rods are to be withdrawn, 7. Any IRM inoperative - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn during low neutron flux level operations unless proper neutron monitoring capability is available in that all IRM channels are in service or properly bypassed, or
- 8. Service platform hoist loaded - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn when fuel is being loaded into the reactor.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.7-5 D. With the mode switch in REFUEL, either of the following conditions also result in a rod block: 1. Refueling platform over the core with any of the three hoists (frame mounted hoist, trolley mounted hoist, or fuel grapple) loaded or the fuel grapple not in its fully raised position - this assures that no control rod is withdrawn when fuel is being loaded into the reactor, or
- 2. Selection of a second control rod movement when any other rod is not fully inserted - this assures that no more than one control rod is withdrawn during control rod and/or control rod drive maintenance.
The rod block logic circuitry is arranged as a two-channel system in which a trip of either channel results in a rod block.
In most cases, the relays associated with the rod block function deenergize to produce a rod block. Two SRM channels, four IRM channels, three APRM channels, and one RBM channel provide inputs into each rod block trip channel. The channel arrangements within the neutron monitoring system are described in Section 7.6. The APRM rod block setpoint is varied as a f unction of recirculation flow. The RBM setpoint is also biased by recirculation flow, but the 100% flow setpoint depends on the power-flow characteristic along which the reactor is operating. For increases in power, the RBM setpoint must be manually reset by the operator; for decreases in power, the setpoint is automatically reduced. Both the APRM- and RBM-biasing arrangements are described in Section 7.6.
A limited number of manual bypasses are permitted in the rod block circuitry: one bypass in the source range, intermediate range, and power range nuclear instrumentation is allowed in each rod block channel. One of the two rod block monitor inputs may be bypassed. An automatic bypass of the SRM detector position rod block is effected as the neutron flux increases beyond a preset level on the SRM instrumentation; the bypass allows the detectors to be withdrawn as a reactor startup is continued. See Section 7.6 for additional information regarding the nuclear instrumentation and RBM rod block bypasses.
7.7.1.2.3 Rod Position Indication System Control rod position indication is provided by a bank of magnetically operated reed switches which open and close when a magnet attached to the rod drive piston passes during rod movement. Indication is provided for each 3 inches of travel and whenever the travel limits of the control rod drive are reached. Since a notch is 6 inches, indication is available for each half-notch of rod travel.
A visual, full core display of all rod positions is continuously available to the operator. In addition, when a control rod is selected for movement, the positions of the selected rod and the three adjacent rods are separately displayed, along with the readings from the 16 local power range monitor (LPRM) detectors in the vicinity. Thus, the operator is supplied with all the available information from the core volume adjacent to the selected rod.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.7-6 7.7.1.2.4 Control Room Indicators and Alarms Numerous alarms and indications are available to inform the operator of rod control system status.
They include:
A. Rod position, B. Rod drive flow control valve position, C. Rod drive water pressure control valve position, D. Rod drive cooling water control valve position, E. Rod out permissive, F. Rod moving out, G. Rod moving in, H. Refueling mode rod selection permissive, I. Rod drift, J. Rod selection, K. Rod block, L. Notch override, M. Rod worth minimizer conditions (Section 7.7.2),
N. Nuclear instrumentation system trips (Section 7.6), and
O. Rod movement timer malfunction.
7.7.1.3 Design Evaluation
The controls and instrumentation associated with the control rod drive system provide a reliable means of controlling core reactivity. The collet finger arrangement mechanically limits rod travel during withdrawal. The rod velocity limiter, described in Section 4.6, limits the reactivity insertion rate should a rod become uncoupled from its drive. Only one rod may be selected at a time, thus limiting the magnitude of a reactivity insertion. The operator is provided with information regarding rod positions, average and local neutron flux levels, and indications from the rod drive hydraulic system. This information allows the operator to be fully cognizant of the status of the core and the control rod pattern.
Each rod is controlled as an individual unit. The failure of any individual control rod drive component does not affect other control rods, thereby providing assurance that single component failures will not inhibit reactivity control capability. Also, a single rod failure will not prevent achieving shutdown margin requirements.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.7-7 Inadvertent reactivity additions are discussed in Sections 4.6.3.1 and 15.4.9.
A failure in the electrical supply to the rod drive solenoids in no way interferes with scram operation since the scram hydraulic and electrical systems act separately from the rod drive portion of the system.
Since control rods are individually positioned and since local and bulk power levels are indicated in the control room, the proper balancing of the power distribution is possible.
To prevent the operator from selecting an improper rod pattern, automatic rod blocks are provided. The full range of nuclear instrumentation is used to provide rod blocks depending on the core condition. Figures 7.6-12 and 7.6-17 show the rod block interlocks as a function of flow.
Although the reactor protection system provides timely protection against the onset and consequences of conditions that could otherwise lead to a gross failure of the fuel, the rod block interlocks act to increase the margin to gross fuel failure by terminating a rod withdrawal before scram settings are reached. The RBM rod block trip setting was selected to prevent local fuel damage for rod withdrawal errors initiated under the worst bypass condition and is thus adequate in providing a safety margin to gross fuel damage in excess of that afforded by the reactor protection
system.
For low neutron flux level operations, the SRM and IRM upscale alarm rod blocks terminate a rod withdrawal if the neutron flux indication is on the verge of going off-scale at the upper end of any range. These upscale trips provide both additional margin to gross fuel damage from rod withdrawal errors and assurance that no control rod will be withdrawn unless the neutron monitoring equipment is selected to the proper range.
The rod blocks initiated by the RWM, scram discharge volume high water level scram bypass, flow converter trips, and neutron monitoring channel downscale and inoperative trips reinforce operating procedures. These rod block functions assure that equipment pertinent to the safe operation of the reactor is in service and properly operating before rod withdrawal is permitted. These rod blocks are provided as an operating convenience and are not directly related to fuel failure. The RWM also aids in preventing the design basis rod drop accident (RDA).
The reliability of the rod block interlock circuitry is consistent with its functions of providing additional safety margin to gross fuel damage and preventing unnecessary scrams. A single sensor could fail in such a way that a rod block would be initiated. The bypass provisions in the rod block circuitry allow such a failure to be bypassed without preventing other sensors of the same monitored variable from initiating a rod block, if required. A complete loss of power to the rod block circuitry would cause a rod block. It is possible, but unlikely, that a short circuit occurring in certain locations could degrade the interlocks. A failure of one RBM channel while the other is bypassed could result in the RBM channel not operating. In either of these cases, the result is no loss of excess safety margin to gross fuel failure. The safety margin provided by the reactor protection system is, by itself, adequate.
DRESDEN - UFSAR
Rev.
2 7.7-7a In considering the various failure modes of the rod block circuitry, it is important to note the standby nature of the interlocks. A rod block interlock failure, by itself, cannot result in any fuel damage. A failure of the rod block interlocks combined with a rod withdrawal error is required before even a chance of local fuel damage can occur. The design performance and safety margins provided by the reactor protection system are not affected by any rod block interlock failure. The details of this analysis are presented in Hatch Nuclear Plant, Docket 50-321, Amendment 6. Section 7.2 describes the scram setpoints.
7.7.1.4 Inspection and Testing Plant Technical Specifications specify required rod block testing (a particular rod block must be periodically tested during any plant condition when it is required to be operable). This testing includes specified functional tests, instrument checks, and calibration.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 2 7.7-8 7.7.2 Rod Worth Minimizer 7.7.2.1 Design Basis The design basis of the RWM is to serve as a backup to procedural control during startup and low-power operation to limit control rod worth and the reactivity addition rate resulting from a control rod drop and thus assure that peak fuel enthalpy would be less than 280 cal/g. Operating procedures are the primary defense against high-worth control rod patterns. Preplanned, normal rod patterns result in low individual control rod worths. The RWM is not designed to replace a Qualified Nuclear Engineer's selection of control rod patterns but is intended to monitor and partially enforce approved control rod movements. The RWM will produce a rod block below the low power setpoint (LPSP). The RWM's function is performed with minimal interference with normal operation and is designed for continuous operation at all power levels.
7.7.2.2 Definitions 7.7.2.2.1 Operator Interface
The color graphics terminal is located within the 902(3)-5 panel in the control room. The computer-driven color-coded screen provides all the information necessary for the control room operator to monitor the system's response. Operator informational requests and implementation of special functions are performed by touching screen areas associated with specific actions.
The control rod positions ar e color coded as follows:
A. Red - Withdraw error, DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.7-9 B. Magenta - Insert error, C. Cyan - Rod out of service, D. Yellow - Substituted position, E. Green - Rod is in latched step, F. White - Rod is not in latched step.
7.7.2.2.2 Sequence Step
Steps are the sequential subdivisions of an operating sequence. Each step consists of an array of rods and a set of insert and withdraw limits that apply to each rod in the array. The steps are numbered in the order they are to be followed when going up in power. For example, Step 1 contains the array of rods which are to be moved first when going up in power. When all the rods within the specified array are at the withdraw limit for Step 1, then Step 2 specifies the next set of control rod moves. The withdraw limit of the array specified in a step is the same as the insert limit of that array in the nearest higher step in the sequence containing that array. Thus, after any completed step (Step i) in the sequence, assuming the sequence has been followed strict ly, all rods in arrays specified in Step 1 through Step i should be at the withdraw limit of the last (previous) step containing those rods. No rod in an array in the next (following) step containing that array, ([Step i + 1] through the end of the sequence), should be withdrawn past the insert limit for that step.
7.7.2.2.3 Sequence Array An array consists of a list of control rods. One or more arrays combine to form "group(s)." Any control rod is assigned to one and only one array. Rods can only be assigned to an array when a sequence is prepared. An array can be moved any number of times within a sequence and at any step. The sequence may optionally contain an array with rods which are to be termed "out of service." Rods within this out-of-service array should be fully inserted and are blocked from movement if selected. The total number of out-of-service rods should not exceed eight.
7.7.2.2.4 Cram Array
A cram array consists of a list of control rods selected by a Qualified Nuclear Engineer based on reactor conditions and control rod patterns. Cram arrays are used when the operator needs to reduce power quickly in an emergency situation (e.g., loss of feedwater heater[s]).
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.7-10 7.7.2.2.5 Operating Sequence An operating sequence is a schedule to be followed by the plant operator when withdrawing or inserting control rods. The sequence can be printed out or viewed at the operator's RWM screen at any time. A sequence consists of an ordered list of sequence steps each containing a list of rods (array) and the position the rods should be moved to, from the current position, at that step. The sequence must have continuous limits. The withdraw limit of an array after a step must correspond exactly to the insert limit of that array in the nearest higher step containing that array. The sequence is enforced in reverse order when coming down in power. A new sequence can be loaded only when the computer is in a load sequence mode, as signified by the position of the mode switch on the 902(3)-5 panel, or when offline and in a test mode as initiated at the system console.
7.7.2.2.6 Latched Step The latched step is the step within the operating sequence compatible at a given time with the existing distribution of control rod positions. The current control rod pattern is compared to the loaded sequence and the total number of errors calculated at each step. The latched step is the step with the least number of total errors. If this criteria yields more than one step, then the lowest step within this list is defined as the latched step. The RWM will latch at any other step containing zero errors if that step contains the selected rod.
7.7.2.2.7 Notch Position A notch position of a control rod is defined as any even number 00 through 48. Physically these numbers correspond to notches located 6 inches apart on the control rod drive mechanism. A control rod in movement passes through the odd numbers but can only be mechanically latched at an even-numbered position. An odd position is not even transmitted electronically to the RWM. A control rod not latched at an even position, unless selected and driving, will be considered a drifting rod.
7.7.2.2.8 Selection Error A selection error appears in white background on the full core display for the operator if a control rod outside of the latched step is selected. Since it is normal operating practice to select control rods not
within the current step for testing purposes, a selection error is only considered as such if movement is intended. The RWM will attempt to relatch upon any new selection of a control rod. If unable to latch to a step containing the selected rod, the selection is in error. All rod movements of selection error rods are blocked if movement is attempted.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.7-11 7.7.2.2.9 Insertion Error An insertion error is defined as the insertion of a control rod inconsistent with the latched operation sequence. For example, if the operator is withdrawing control rods exactly according to procedures and has withdrawn several of the rods which are defined to be in Group 4, the insertion of any withdrawn rod of Group 4 at that time is not considered an insertion error even though it may be a deviation from planned procedures. However, if he were to insert a rod from another group which was withdrawn previously in the sequence, that action is inconsistent with the operating sequence and is an insertion error. This definition is independent of how far the rod is inserted.
An insertion error occurs when:
A. A control rod in the array of the currently latched step (Step i) is inserted past the insert limit at that step; or
B. A control rod is inserted past the withdraw limit of the closest lower step (Step i - 1 down to Step 1) containing that control rod.
7.7.2.2.10 Withdrawal Error A withdrawal error is defined similarly to an insertion error. For example, if several rods in Group 4 are not withdrawn, the withdrawal of a rod from a different group which should be withdrawn later in the sequence is a withdrawal error regardless of how far the rod is moved.
A withdrawal error occurs when:
A. A control rod in the array of the currently latched step (Step i) is withdrawn past the withdraw limit at that step; or
B. A control rod is withdrawn past the withdraw limit of the closest lower step (Step i - 1 down to Step 1) containing that rod.
7.7.2.2.11 Low Power Setpoint The low power setpoint (LPSP) is the core thermal power level below which alarms and rod movement blocks are enabled if generated due to sequence violations. Above the LPSP, sequence violations are alarmed but rod movement blocks may be disabled by the Nuclear Station Operator (NSO). Rod blocks are normally left in effect to enforce sequences to full power. Sequence violations with rod blocks in effect require movement of a mispositioned rod before constraints are removed from other rod movements. The LPSP is determined by steam flow and feed flow measurements and is output from the feedwater control system instrumentation to the RWM computer as a digital signal (reset = below LPSP). The LPSP signal is set to a percentage of rated core thermal power listed in Technical Specifications and may be raised or lowered by adjustment of the field sensors.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.7-12 7.7.2.2.12 Insert Block, Permissive An insert block is interlocked with the reactor manual control system in such a manner as to permit or inhibit the insertion of the selected control rod. An insert block is imposed when a rod has moved so as to violate the sequence. The following conditions will cause rod movement insert blocks:
A. Selection and attempted movement of a rod not within the currently latched step; B. Selection of a rod deemed to be an insert error (it may be possible to remove this insert block by declaring the rod inoperable and inserting it fully using the out-of-service function from the RWM screen);
C. Selection of an improper rod when attempting to recover from an insert error;
D. Selection of any rod other than a withdraw error rod when attempting to recover from a withdraw error;
E. Various other rod selections when implementing special modes such as rod test or out-of-service; or
F. System initialization, hardware errors, or diagnostic request.
7.7.2.2.13 Withdraw Block, Permissive
A withdraw block is interlocked with the reactor manual control system in such a manner as to permit or inhibit the withdrawal of the selected control rod. A withdraw block is imposed when a rod has moved so as to violate the sequence. The following conditions will cause rod movement withdraw blocks:
A. Selection of a rod not within the currently latched step; B. Selection of any rod when attempting to recover from a withdraw error;
C. Selection of any rod other than an insert error rod when attempting to recover from an insert error;
D. Various other rod selections when implementing special modes such as rod test or out-of-service; or
E. System initialization, hardware errors, or diagnostic request.
7.7.2.2.14 Alternate Control Rod Limit
In addition to the insert and withdraw limits specified in the loaded sequence, an alternate control
rod limit may be selected for any rod. The alternate control rod limit for a rod is defined as being one notch position less than the position limit for DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.7-13 that rod at that step. The only exception to this rule is that the alternate position to the limit of 00 is 02.
7.7.2.2.15 Out of Service Rod
An out of service (OOS) rod is a rod which is "pinned" at 00 with no movement or alternate limits allowed. A control rod which can not be fully inserted may be declared OOS although more restrictive rules apply to rods incapable of insertion. Placing a rod OOS effectively removes the rod from its associated array. The rod is ignored during the latch procedure and will not be considered as an insert or withdraw error during other rod movements. Rods may be taken OOS in one of two ways: inclusion in an OOS array defined by the sequence builder, or through use of the RWM screen function "Rod Out Of Service." A control rod which has been declared OOS is not allowed to be moved in any direction. The total number of OOS rods shall not exceed eight.
7.7.2.2.16 Substituted Rod Position A substitute rod position can be entered through the RWM screen for rods whose positions are undefined. A substitute value can not be entered for any rod with a "good" position (00, 02, 04, 46, 48, etc.,). A rod with a position that cannot be determined may have a substitute value entered if all attempts by the RWM fail in locating its position. When a substitute rod's position becomes known, the substitute value is replaced automatically with the good value and the operator is notified. A maximum of 10 rods may have substitute values entered. If a substitute rod is selected and driven, the entered substitute value will be discarded and a new substitute value entered if the new position is bad.
7.7.2.2.17 System Mode System mode (both A and B RWM computers) is selected by a three-position switch (NORMAL, BYPASS and SEQUENCE LOAD) in the control room. This switch is used by the operator to download a new sequence or to bypass the RWM system, if necessary, to remedy hardware problems. The three positions are labeled - NORM for the NORMAL position, BYP for the BYPASS position and SEQ for the SEQUENCE LOAD position.
7.7.2.2.18 RWM Selected The online RWM computer (A or B) is determined by the RWM select switch in the control room. If RWM computer A is selected, RWM computer B is incapable of modifying the RWM screen or digital contacts and thus unable to block control rod movements.
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.7-14 7.7.2.2.19 Operational State - Computer Ready The computer ready operational state is applicable only when the selected system mode is normal.
Each operable RWM computer will determine if it can latch and verify a sequence. If an RWM computer is able to complete all of its diagnostics and has a valid sequence loaded, it signals a ready state through the digital system.
7.7.2.2.20 Rod Test Function The rod test function is a special case of the normal mode and is selected through the operator interface. Rod test mode can only be entered if one or fewer control rods are not fully inserted. When in this mode, one rod may be fully withdrawn and reinserted only if all other rods are fully inserted. Movement of a control rod is blocked when selected if any other rod is not fully inserted. If placed in this mode with more than one rod withdrawn past the fully inserted position, withdrawn rods are highlighted on the full core display and all rod movements are blocked until the rod test mode is exited.
7.7.2.2.21 Control Rod Position The control rod position is the axial position of a control rod in the core. Valid control rod positions have numbers 00 through 48, even numbers only. Number 00 is fully inserted and number 48 is fully withdrawn.
7.7.2.2.22 Control Rod Condition The condition of a control rod describes the validity of the control rod position. A control rod may be one or more of the following:
A. Normal, B. Bad, C. Substituted, D. Out of service, E. Alternate enabled, F. Selected, G. Drifting, H. Insert error, or I. Withdraw error.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 6 June 2005 7.7-15 7.7.2.2.23 Rod Drift A rod drift is indicated if a control rod moves from an even-notched position (unless, of course, that control rod is selected and driving). A rod drifting input signifies the presence of a rod not at an even position in the core. Scans are undertaken to find the drifting rod.
7.7.2.2.24 Control Rod Withdrawal Sequence Restrictions
In order to limit the amount of energy deposited in the fuel in the event of a control rod drop accident, sequencing restrictions are imposed. Two options exist to bound control rod sequencing. Either option will limit rod worth such that the peak fuel enthalpy remains <280 calories per gram.
The first option is a generic approach to limit rod worth by a sequencing technique called BPWS. The banked position withdrawal sequence (BPWS) are rules designed to minimize rod worth and reduce peak fuel enthalpy below limits in the event of a rod drop accident. These rules are to be followed to the LPSP defined in the Technical Specifications. Additional detail on the BPWS rules is included in "Banked Position Withdrawal Sequence," Licensing Topical Report General Electric Co.,
January 1977 (NEDO-21231).
The second option remove s some of the generic conservatism by analyzing an acceptable rod withdrawal sequence on a cycle specific basis. This non-generic analysis provides sequencing restrictions to limit the rod worth and peak fuel enthalpy to <
280 calories per gram.
A third sequencing option eliminates the possibility of a rod drop accident, and may be used for reactor shutdowns below the LPSP. The "Improved BPWS Control Rod Insertion Process" requires that all withdrawn control rods have been verified coupled prior to reducing power below the LPSP, and any control rods which have not been confirmed coupled must be fully inserted above the LPSP. This allows rod insertion straight to position 00, and removes unnecessary banking during a reactor shutdown. Additional detail on the Improved BPWS for shutdowns is included in "Improved BPWS Control Rod Insertion Process", NEDO-33091-A Revision 2, July 2004.
7.7.2.2.25 Watchdog Timer
When signaled periodically by a device, a watchdog timer monitors the operation of that device. If the timer is not notified (by a digital signal) within an internally set period of not more than 1 second, the timer resets, signifying a nonfunctional device. For this specific application a toggled digital signal from the RWM computer activates the timer. If the pulses cease the timer resets. The timer is designed to detect a dead computer, hardware problems which might permanently set this signal, or just a processor caught in an infinite loop. To activate the timer it is necessary to pulse an initialization input before resuming the ready toggle.
7.7.2.3 System Components The RWM consists of two digital computer systems with the following components interconnected, as shown on the block diagram given by Figure 7.7-2.
A. Digital computers, B. Input/output control, C. Output buffer, D. Graphics display and control panel, and E. System console.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.7-16 7.7.2.4 Arrangement The RWM system consists of dual computers designated RWM A and B for redundancy. The computers are mounted in a single cabinet located in the auxiliary computer room. The input/output boards, output buffer board, and power supply are contained within the same cabinet. Each computer has an individual system console that is located near the computer.
The color graphic monitor is located on the reactor controls section of the main control board in the control room. A touch screen system is used as the operator interface device. The following control switches and indicating lights are mounted above the monitor on the main control board.
A. RWM A READY light; B. RWM B READY light;
C. RWM A ONLINE light;
D. RWM B ONLINE light; E. System INITIALIZE pushbutton; F. System DIAGNOSTIC pushbutton;
G. Three-position selector switch - NORMAL, BYPASS, and SEQUENCE LOAD; and H. Two-position selector switch - RWM A or RWM B.
An optically isolated interface board within the RPIS transmits control rod identification and position information whenever requested by the RWM.
The RWM cabinet and the process computer RPIS system have identical 24-Vdc power supplies with failure contacts wired into the RWM for power supply failure detection. Both power supplies are fed by the computer uninterruptible power supply. The RWM is designed to apply rod blocks and annunciate when power is lost to the system.
The output buffer board is located within the RWM cabinet, consists of relay logic that interfaces with other systems, and provides switching between the two systems.
7.7.2.5 Features
During control rod movements, the color graphics monitor displays the following information in a color-coded format: selected control rod, selected control rod position, allowable movement limits, currently latched step, full core display of contro l rod positions, secondary screen selections, and system generated status messages.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.7-17 The full core map control rod positions are color coded corresponding to possible control rod conditions. Secondary screens are available to allow the operator to perform various functions such as interrogate the status of the system, review e rror messages, select an alternate menu, review the sequence, and select primary functions.
The INITIALIZE, and DIAGNOSTIC, indicating lights as well as the ONLINE and READY indicating lights for the selected computer should be illuminated. The READY light for the backup (nonselected) RWM should be on only if it is available for use. The RWM initiates control rod scans on a periodic basis during this mode of operation to verify proper control rod positions and function of the scanning equipment. A scan is accomplished in approximately 1 second and is initiated whenever:
A. The system is initialized;
B. A diagnostic request is received; C. The switch position of either the mode or A/B select switch changes;
D. The process computer requests a scan; E. A drifting rod, phantom rod movement, or other change in rod position is detected; F. The LPSP is crossed-over as listed in Technical specifications; or
G. The operator or system console scan is requested.
H. A periodic scan with increase in frequency when drift signal is set.
When the INITIALIZE pushbutton or the local hardware board reset pushbutton is depressed, the RWM software is reset with various self-tests cond ucted. Upon successful completion of internal tests, the sequence is checked, the core is scanned, and the system latches to the current step.
The system DIAGNOSTIC pushbutton is provided to allow system testing during operation. The diagnostic routine is a subset of the tests performed during initialization.
Both functions (initialize and diagnostic) cause rod blocks to be initiated during the routines. Only the selected machine, via the A/B select switch, will respond to the initialize and diagnostic routines.
The two-position selector switch determines which of the two redundant RWMs has control of the rod blocking function and outputs to the color graphics monitor.
The RWM interfaces with the reactor manual control system to initiate control rod blocks when appropriate. The withdrawal/insert permissive is achieved by sequential latching of three output contacts. For example, the computer might issue sequential commands to insert permissives A, B, and C. These three signals are passed through a voter circuit which merges the three digital signals into one by polling the three signals and acting according to the majority. The voter adds reliability to the block mechanism. Echoes of all three signals (both insert and DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 7 June 2007 7.7-18 withdraw permissives) are returned to the RWM for error checking. The voter circuit outputs are also echoed back and evaluated by the RWM.
The RWM system interfaces with the PPC system to allow control rod sequence transfers under the direction of the nuclear engineering group.
Individual system consoles are provided for each computer to log control rod movements and various hard copy outputs. A menu of available options are provided for plant personnel to set system parameters and evaluate system status.
7.7.2.6 Design Evaluation
During routine operation, the RWM mode switch is placed in the NORMAL position which initiates the operator follow mode. In this mode, the RWM enforces the control rod sequence as loaded by the Qualified Nuclear Engineer. The RWM sequence consists of a preapproved list of steps that detail specific control rod movements. Each step specifies an array (an array is a list of control rod identifications) and movement limits for that step. When latching to the appropriate step in the sequence, the RWM scans the core and compares the current control rod positions to the positions specified in each step of the sequence. The step which results in the lowest number of total errors (withdraw or insert) is considered the currently latched step.
To perform the primary function of the RWM, enforcement of the preprogrammed sequence, insertion or withdrawal of control rods is permitted for rods selected in the latched step. If the RWM detects a control rod movement inconsistent with the loaded sequence, control rod blocks are initiated and the alarm is energized. The operator is required to correct the position error before any further movements are al lowed. The secondary functions are available to overcome minor malfunctions in the RPIS and RMCS system. The secondary functions include:
A. Rod out-of-service - This function allows the operator to move a control rod to zero and remove it from service. In this mode, the control rod is displayed in cyan on the color graphics monitor and its movement is blocked until it is placed back in service. Placing a rod out-of-service effectively removes the control rod from its associated array. The out-of-service rod is ignored by the RWM latching procedure and consequently will not be considered an insert or withdraw error during other control rod movements. Analyzed sequences restrict the number and location of control rods that can be taken out-of-service. B. Substitute control rod position - This function allows an operator to manually enter a position value for a control rod that does not have valid position indication from the RPIS system, provided the actual position of the control can be determined. There is a limit of 10 substitute positions; they will be displayed in yellow on the color graphics monitor.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.7-19 C. Enable/disable a control rod alternate limit - An alternate limit is defined as one notch position in from the target rod position. Since missing positions frequently occur from the RPIS system, the alternate positions allow the operator to insert a control rod one notch from the target position and continue with control rod movements. There is a limit of two alternate limits corresponding to any of the defined banking limits (except for control rods at positions 00 and 48); they will be displayed in cyan on the color graphics monitor.
Along with the secondary functions touch box, there are other touch boxes on the main screen which enable the operator to perform other RWM functions. The touch boxes are as follows:
A. POWER REDUCTION - used when the operator needs to quickly reduce power. Cram arrays are provided for this task.
B. MAIN MENU - includes toggle switches for various functions and allows edits to be printed.
C. REVIEW SCREENS - allows operator review of the sequence, events, system status, and Cram arrays.
D. SPECIAL MODES - includes the rod test, rod exercise, scram timing, and scram mode functions.
Control rod movements are tracked and verified against the loaded sequence at all reactor power levels. When errors are encountered, control rod blocks are always issued when below the LPSP. The control rod blocks can be selectively enabled above the LPSP power by enabling the function through the main menu.
The RWM function is inhibited when the mode switch is placed to BYPASS or SEQUENCE LOAD position. The RWM can be placed in the SEQUENCE LOAD position whenever an updated sequence is to be loaded by the Qualified Nuclear Engineer.
7.7.2.7 Surveillance and Testing Detailed on-demand system diagnostic routines are provided to test the computer and the control rod interlock networks.
Technical Specifications specify required RWM surveillance tests.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 6 June 2005 7.7-20 7.7.3 Load Control Design Load control of a BWR power plant differs from a conventional fossil fuel power plant due primarily to the sensitivity of boiling to pressure variations. In a conventional plant, the turbine control valves are controlled by the speed/load governor responding directly to system frequency and load demand via the governor setpoint. The resulting pressure changes in the boiler cause a pressure regulator to adjust the firing rate of the boiler furnace to match the steaming rate with the turbine steam flow.
In a nuclear boiler, power (and hence steaming rate) is directly affected by the steam volume in the reactor core. In turn, the steam volume is sensitive to pressure variations. If a BWR turbine were controlled as in a conventional plant, opening the control valves would cause decreasing reactor pressure, which would cause the steam volume in the core to increase, which in turn would cause the neutron flux (fission power) to decrease; exactly the opposite of the effect desired. Conversely, closing the control valves would cause the reactor power to increase rather than decrease. The greater the rate of change of pressure, the greater the short-term change in neutron flux. However, the difference in the neutron flux between two steady-state pressure levels (e.g., 1000 and 1020 psia) is small, provided only the operating pressure is changed.
The heat addition rate of a BWR boiler can be changed much faster than that of a conventional boiler, but even so, it cannot be changed fast enough to cope with the effe ct of a rapid pressure change on reactor power. A control scheme was adopted which placed the turbine control valves under control of a high performance pressure regulator (refer to Section 7.7.4). To get the load response, the speed/load signal from the turbine governing system controls the reactor recirculation flow which directly and strongly affects the reactor power. Therefore, the steam generation rate in the reactor must first be changed before the pressure regulator will react to change the turbine steam flow.
This load control scheme is made up of two control systems, a turbine control system which is supplied with the turbine, and a recirculation flow control system which is supplied with the reactor.
Figure 7.7-3 a diagram of the plant load control scheme, shows the basic features in the power operating mode. Reactor pressure and turbine-generator controls are addressed in Section 7.7.4. Additional turbine controls are addressed in Section 10.2.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 6 June 2005 7.7-21 7.7.3.1 Recirculation Flow Control System 7.7.3.1.1 System Description Reactor power may be varied by varying recirculation flowrate. At a steady state, there is constant steam (void) volume in the core. As recirculation flowrate is increased, steam voids are removed from the core faster, thus reducing the existing void accumulation. This reduction in the steam volume within the core volume increases the moderation of neutrons within the core thus inserting positive reactivity. The positive reactivity causes an increase in reactor power, consequently steam generation rate. When the negative reactivity associated with the increased steam generation (voids) and the increased fuel temperature (doppler) equals the original positive reactivity insertion, power stabilizes at an increased level corresponding to the increased recirculation flow.
Power-flow characteristics are shown in Figure 4.4-1. The flow control range is shown as 58 to 100% power along the 100% load line.
There are four possible modes of recirculation flow control:
A. Individual manual operation where each recirculation pump is controlled via a potentiometer in its individual transfer station, and
B. Master manual operation where both pumps are manually controlled from one controller, the master controller; Motor-generator (M-G) sets with adjustable speed couplings vary the frequency of the voltage supply to the recirculation pump motors to give the desired pump speed (see Section 5.4). The signal to the M-G set may be from the individual loop recirculation speed controls (one for each of the A and B loops) or from the master controller if the individual speed controllers (called manual/auto [M/A]
transfer stations) are in the AUTO position.
Usually, the units are operated in the master manual mode. In the master auto mode, the control system has not been found to exhibit the desired amount of stability. To change reactor power, a demand signal from the operator is applied to the master controller. With the individual recirculation loop speed controls in the automatic mode (see Figure 7.7-3), a signal from the master controller adjusts the setpoint of the controller for each coupling. This signal is compared with the actual speed of the generator associated with each controller. The recirculating pump motor adjusts its speed in accordance with the frequency of the M-G set output voltage.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 6 June 2005 7.7-22 7.7.3.1.2 Design Evaluation The recirculation flow control arrangement contributes to the stable response of the reactor. The stability of the unit is discussed in Section 4.3. Section 4.4 describes reactor margins under the flow control mode. Figure 7.6-13 depicts a typical reactor behavior line: with flow and power initially at any point on the curve, a flow change will cause the power to change along the path indicated by the curve. Malfunction of the flow controller can cause either a recirculation flow increase (insertion of positive reactivity) or a decrease (high power-to-flow ratio). Inadvertent recirculation flow increases are milder than the transient caused by starting a recirculation pump in a cold loop, and inadvertent recirculation flow decreases are less severe than a trip of one or two recirculating pumps. These malfunctions are discussed in Sections 15.4 and 15.3, respectively.
The dP instrument trip points are selected such that the instruments null (essentially zero differential) when the reactor recirculation pumps are delivering rated flow. Zero differential pressure will optimize the setting of the instruments should there be even a slight difference in the loss coefficient of the jet pump assemblies.
The trip point is set at about 0.75 psi. The only requirement is that any positive P would result in the selection of Loop A; any negative P would result in the selection of Loop B.
7.7.3.2 Economic Generation Control System
7.7.3.2.1 Deleted.
7.7.3.2.2 Failure Mode and Effects Analyses
7.7.3.2.2.1 Reactor Recirculation Master Flow Controller Failures The master flow controller is a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller with the following features:
A. Its input signal (load demand error) is limited to +/-6.25 volts representative of +/-25% load demand error; and B. Its output is representative of a speed demand to the two generator speed controllers (as modified by the master limiter) and is normally limited between 29% to 99% speed demand. The master controller range is adjustable to a 20% lower limit and a 100% upper limit. A 30% lower speed demand will result in about 60% reactor power with a rated power control rod pattern and both loops operating.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 6 June 2005 7.7-23 Possible failure modes of this controller are:
A. Fail as is;
B. Fail in the direction asking for maximum speed demand to both generator speed controllers; or C. Fail in the direction asking for minimum speed demand to both generator speed controllers.
The first failure mode presents no safety related consequences, but would cause some operational inconvenience.
The second failure mode, maximum speed demand to both generator speed controllers, would be most significant if the malfunction were to occur with the master flow controller initially at its lower speed demand limit. At the lower speed demand limit the reactor would be at about 58% of full power. Upon the failure of the master controller, both speed controllers would be subjected to an approximate step demand increase in speed of about 72%. It is important to note, however, that each speed controller has an input speed demand error limit which is adjusted in the Dresden units to about +/-7.5% or +/-84 rpm error. With this error-limiting feature, the step magnitude is substantially reduced. The resulting transient woul d be less severe than the case of the malfunction of a single positioner, causing it to move at its maximum rate in the direction to increase the speed of the generator, and thus the flow in that loop.
The reactor would probably scram because of the rate of flow increase, but the malfunction presents no serious consequence as reactor recirculation flow is always leading the power increase.
The third failure mode, minimum speed demand to both generator speed contro llers, would be most significant if the malfunction were to occur with both loops at their rated operating condition of full flow and the reactor at full power. Here again, because of the speed demand limits at the inputs to the speed controllers, the transient resulting from this malfunction would be only about as severe for the single positioner failure in the direction to decrease loop flow at the maximum rate. The effects of this master flow controller failure are less severe than those resulting from the trip of both M-G set drive motors.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 8 June 2009 7.7-24 Due to the input limits on the individual speed controllers, failure modes caused by malfunction in the master flow controller would not be as severe as similar failures of a single loop, variable speed, coupler scoop positioner.
7.7.3.2.2.2 Load Demand Error Signal Failures
The load demand error signal originates from the turbine control system and is the input signal to both the master flow controller and the pressure setpoint adjuster when the flow control system is in the automatic mode of operation. As indicated in the previous section, the signal is limited to about +/-25% load demand error.
Failure of the setpoint adjuster in the direction to cause positive pressure changes would most likely cause reactor flux scram if the reactor were near the top end of the flow control range and the setpoint change were as large as a step demand increase of 40 psi. A 10-psi positive setpoint change from turbine-generator design conditions causes neutron flux to rise transiently to about a 110% value. Such a failure, if occurring when the reactor is near the low end of the flow control range, should not result in flux or pressure scram. No safety problems are encountered since the only consequence is the possibility of an unwanted scram.
Failure of the setpoint adjuster in the direction to cause negative pressure changes has the opposite effect. The negative step change in pressure setpoint would cause the opening of the control valves, and depending upon the initial power level, possibly the opening of the bypass valves. Total transient steam flow from the reactor vessel would be limited by the maximum combined flow limit. The steam flow is further reduced if turbine bypass valves are out of service. See the cycle specific reload documentation for the analysis assumptions on combined steam flow through turbine control valves and turbine bypass valves. Pressure would fall, causing a decrease in reactor power until as much as a 40-psi drop in pressure is experienced at the turbine end of the steam line.
7.7.3.2.2.3 Load Set Mechanism Failures The load set mechanism is the device used to control plant loading manually by increase/decrease signals initiated by the reactor operator. The load set mechanism can control reactor power only when the master flow controller is in the automatic flow control mode of operation. The maximum rate at which the load reference can be changed is 0 to 100% in 43 seconds, from which maximum load demand rates of +/- 2-% per second can be inferred.
Failure modes associated with the load set mechanisms are no more severe than the normal expected maneuvers originating from this device.
A failure calling for increased loading can cause a demand increase no greater than 2-% per second, and a failure calling for decreased loading can cause a demand decrease no greater than 2-% per second. The automatic flow control system is DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 8 June 2009 7.7-25 capable of accepting demand rates in excess of these values with no safety consequences for the reactor.
7.7.3.3 Other Reactivity Control Systems
The standby liquid control system is described and evaluated in Section 9.3.
7.7.4 Pressure Regulator and Turbine-Generator Controls
7.7.4.1 Design Basis The pressure regulator and turbine-generator controls are integrally connected to accomplish the functions of controlling reactor pressure and turbine speed. Specifically, reactor pressure must be prevented from increasing too high during load maneuvers, and turbine speed must be maintained below design limits. The system response must be stable for all anticipated maneuvering rates.
7.7.4.2 System Description
Control and supervisory equipment for the turbine generator are arranged for remote operation from the turbine-generator control panel board or console in the control room. In addition, turbine oil pressure is transmitted to an indicator on the panel board. Normally, the pressure regulator controls turbine control valve position to maintain constant reactor pressure. The ability of the plant to follow system load is accomplished by adjusting the reactor power level, either by regulating the reactor coolant recirculation system flow or by moving control rods.
However, the turbine speed contro l can override the pressure regulator, and the turbine control valves will close when an increase in system frequency or a loss of generator load causes the speed of the turbine to exceed the setpoint. In the event that the reactor is delivering more steam than the turbine control valves will pass, the excess steam will be bypassed directly to the main condenser automatically by pressure-controlled bypass valves.
The total capacity of the bypass valves is equal to 33.5% of the rated reactor flow. Load rejection in excess of the bypass valves' capacity, which occurs due to generator or tie-line breaker trips, will cause the reactor to scram.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 8 June 2009 7.7-26 The Pressure Regulator and Turbine-Generator Controls utilize a triple modular redundant (TMR) design with a separate Turbine Controller, Pressure Controller and Overspeed Protection Module. Each controller / module consists of three (3) separate processors, utilizing a software-implemented fault tolerance (SIFT) technology that allows the controller to remain on-line if one of the processors fail. The TMR Turbine Controller is tasked with turbine control and protection, the TMR Pressure Controller performs the steam bypass and pressure control functions and the TMR Protection Module provides a second level of overspeed protection. The Turbine Controller and Pressure Controller communicate over hardwired analog inputs and outputs to coordinate turbine and pressure control requirements. The Protection Module functions independent from the Turbine and pressure Controllers with dedicated speed sensor inputs.
The separate TMR system for control of the turbine bypass valves and control of the turbine allows the two functions to maintain independence from a control hardware and software standpoint. For critical functions, the controllers utilize triple-redundant process sensors and will continue operation if one of the process sensors fail. The Pressure Controller is designed to continue operation even if two (2) of the three (3) sensors fail.
The pressure control system controls reactor pressure during plant startup, power generation and shutdown modes of operation. The Mark VI pre ssure controllers act to ensure that the desired pressure setpoint is achieved through the positioning of the turbine control valves and steam bypass valves in response to changes in the pressure setpoint error.
The reactor pressure control algorithm is designed to operate using three pressure transmitter inputs from one of two locations in the steam flow path. In effect, two pressure control strategies are offered, either of which is selectable by the operator. The control strategy offered by the three pressure transmitters tapped into reactor vessel dome structure is called reactor vessel (dome) pressure control. The second control strategy uses three pressure transmitters tapped into the main steam line just upstream of the main stop valves and is called turbine inlet main steam (throttle) pressure control.
A maximum combined flow limit is provided to limit the total steam flow through the turbine control valves and bypass valves. See the cycle specific reload documentation for the analysis assumptions on combined steam flow through turbine control valves and turbine bypass valves.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 8 June 2009 7.7-26a As seen in Figure 7.7-4, the pressure regulator with the higher value controls through the low value gate because the other input to the gate, the speed/load signal, is normally se t to be larger by about the equivalent of 10% steam flow (or 0.5% speed for 5% speed regulation). A bias signal of this amount is subtracted from the speed/load signal resulting in the load demand signal. The difference between this signal and the output signal from the high-pressure regulator (which represents the steam flow required to satisfy the pressure control requirement), is the load demand error signal.
This load demand error signal is the control signal for the recirculation flow control system which adjusts the core recirculation flow until the load demand error signal is zero. This same signal is used to add the equivalent of a setpoint adjustment, at a controlled rate and magnitude, to the pressure regulator to cause the control valves to respond immediately. This effect is temporary since the load demand error signal returns to zero as the load demand is satisfied (see Section 7.7.3).
The speed/load signal will take over control of the turbine control valves should the speed increase over 0.5% (due to overspeed caused by load rejection or system frequency rise due to an upset) or should the load set signal be decreased greater than 10% and faster than the recirculation flow control system can change the reactor steaming rate. In such event of takeover, the steam flow required signal will exceed the control valve flow demand signal. When this difference exceeds a small bias signal (equivalent to about 1%), the bypass valves will open and control the pressure if the rejected load does not exceed the bypass capacity. If the bypass capacity is exceeded, the reactor will scram.
The reactor steaming rate can keep up with normal load maneuvering and, therefore, bypassing of steam is not normally required.
Typical pressure/steam flow rela tionships are shown in Figure 7.7-9. The pressure regulator setpoint is fixed and both turbine and reactor pressures vary with steam flow - the turbine due to the regulation of the pressure controller and the reactor due to this same regulation plus the variable steam line pressure drop. There appears to be no penalty to this mode of operation (which is recommended for a BWR plant).
The turbine stop valves are equipped with limit switches which open when the valve has moved from its fully opened position. These switches provide a scram signal to the reactor protection system, anticipating the resulting reactor high pressure condition. The turbine stop valve scram signal is discussed in Section 7.2.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 8 June 2009 7.7-27 To protect the turbine, closure of the four turbine stop valves is initiated for various abnormal conditions as listed in Section 10.2.
7.7.4.3 Design Evaluation
The pressure regulator and turbine-generator design is such that the system provides a stable response to normal maneuvering transients. Section 4.3 evaluates the stability of the overall boiling water reactor cycle, including the pressure and turbine control. Section 15.2.3 analyzes transients due to turbine trips.
The bypass valves are capable of responding to the maximum closure rate of the turbine control valves such that reactor steam flow is not significantly affected until the magnitude of the load rejection exceeds the capacity of the bypass valves. Load rejections in excess of bypass valve capacity may cause the reactor to scram due to high pressure, high neutron flux, or rapid electrical load reduction. When first stage turbine pressure is above that corresponding to 38.5% power, any condition causing the turbine stop valves to close will directly initiate a scram before reactor pressure or neutron flux have risen to the trip level.
The pressure regulator or controller can be assumed to fail by closing the turbine control valves or the bypass valves. These malfunctions are discussed in Chapter 15, fuel damage does not occur in either case. The triple modular redundant design reduces the probability that pressure regulator malfunction will cause operational problems.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 8 June 2009 7.7-28 7.7.5 Feedwater Control System 7.7.5.1 Design Basis The feedwater control system (FCS) is designed to regulate the feedwater flow to the reactor vessel such that proper reactor vessel water level is maintained.
7.7.5.2 System Description
During steady-state operation, feedwater flow closely matches steam flow and the water level is maintained by the microprocessor-ba sed, digital control system.
The level of the water in the reactor is controlled by the digital feedwater controller which receives inputs in one of two ways as selected by the operator: from reactor vessel water level, steam flow, and feedwater flow transmitters (three-element control) or from reactor vessel water level only (single-element control). In three-element control, signals from feedwater flow, steam flow, and reactor vessel level are used to provide a quick response to power changes by reacting to feedwater and steam flow changes before a level change could be detected by level instrumentation. In single-element control a change in water level is immediately sensed and the system adjusts the opening of the feedwater control valves to maintain level. The water level is monitored by level transmitters coupled to two separate sensing lines from the proper elevations on the vessel shell. Level sensors are described in Section 7.6.
Feedwater flow is monitored by flow transmitters coupled to flow nozzles in the feedwater lines. The total feedwater flow is the summation of the signals from the three feedwater lines.
Steam flow is monitored by four flow transmitters coupled to four flow restrict ors in the steam lines. The total steam flow is the summation of the signals from the four steam lines.
The Feedwater System and Main Turbine High Wate r Level Trip Instrumentation is designed to detect a potential failure of the Feedwater Level Control System that causes excessive feedwater flow. With excessive feedwater flow, the water level in the reactor vessel rises toward the high water level reference point, causing the trip of the three feedwater pumps and the main turbine.
Reactor Vessel Water Level-High signals are provided by level transmitters that sense the difference between the pressure due to a constant column of water (reference leg) and the pressure due to the actual water level in the reactor vessel (variable leg). Four channels of Reactor Vessel Water Level-High instrumentation are provided as input to two trip systems. Each trip system is arranged with a two-out-of-two initiation logic that trips the three feedwater pumps and the main turbine. The channels include electronic equipment (e.g., trip units) that compares measured input signals with pre-established setpoints. When the setpoint is exceeded, the channel output relay actuates, which then outputs a feedwater pump and main turbine trip signal to the trip logic.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 6 June 2005 7.7-29 A trip of the feedwater pumps limits further increase in reactor vessel water level by limiting further addition of feedwater to the reactor vessel. A trip of the main turbine and closure of the stop valves protects the turbine from damage due to water entering the turbine.
The Feedwater System and Main Turbine High Water Level Trip Instrumentation is assumed to be capable of providing a feedwater pump and main turbine trip in the design basis transient analysis for a feedwater controller failure, maximum demand event. The high level trip indirectly initiates a reactor scram from the main turbine trip (above approximately 45% RTP) and trips the feedwater pumps, thereby terminating the event. The reactor scram mitigates the reduction in MCPR.
Instrument zero = 503 inches above Vessel Zero or 143 inches above Top of Active Fuel (TAF).
TAF = 360 inches above Vessel Zero.
The LCO requires four channels of the Reactor Vessel Water Level-High instrumentation to be OPERABLE to ensure that no single instrument failure will prevent the feedwater pumps and main turbine trip on a valid high level signal. Two channels are needed to provide trip signals in order for the feedwater pump and main turbine trips to occur.
Each channel must have its setpoint set within the specified Allowable Value. The Allowable Value is set to ensure that the thermal limits are not exceeded during the event. The actual setpoint is calibrated to be consistent with the applicable setpoint methodology assumptions. Nominal trip setpoints are specified in the setpoint calculations. The nominal setpoints are selected to ensure that the setpoints do not exceed the Allowable Value between successive CHANNEL CALIBRATIONS. Operation with a trip setpoint less conservative than the nominal trip setpoint, but within its Allowable Value, is acceptable. A channel is inoperable if its actual trip setpoint is not within its required Allowable Value.
Trip setpoints are those predetermined values of output at which an action should take place. The setpoints are compared to the actual process parameter (e.g., reactor vessel water level), and when the measured output value of the process parameter exceeds the setpoints, the associated device (e.g., trip unit) changes state. The analytic limits are derived from the limiting values of the process parameters obtained from the safety analysis. The trip setpoints are determined from the analytic limits, corrected for defined process, calibration, and instrument errors. The Allowable Values are then determined, based on the trip setpoint values , by accounting for the calibration based errors. These calibration based errors are limited to reference accuracy, instrument drift, errors associated with measurement and test equipment, and calibration tolerance of loop components. The trip setpoints and Allowable Values determined in this manner provide adequate protection because instrument uncertainties, process effects, calibration tolerances, instrument drift, and severe environment errors (for channels that must function in harsh environments as defined by 10 CFR 50.49) are accounted for and appropriately applied for the instrumentation.
Reactor vessel water level, feedwater flow, and steam flow are recorded in the control room. High and low reactor vessel water levels are annunciated in the control room.
Each reactor feedwater pump has recirculation controls which pass feedwater back to the condenser when individual feed pump flow is below minimum flow required to cool the pumps. Each feed pump is shutdown automatically on low suction pressure (see Sections 10.4).
In the control room, a microprocessor-based digital control system is installed. The microprocessor-based system provides improved reliability of operation.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev 8 June 2009 7.7-30 7.7.5.3 Design Evaluation Key feedwater system parameters are recorded and, upon abnormal conditions, annunciated in the control room; the operator can monitor system operation continuously.
Feedwater level control signals are redundant, providing assurance that malfunctions will not result in operational difficulties.
Feedwater control system malfunctions could result in maximum or zero feedwater flow. These malfunctions are discussed in Sections 15.1.2, 15.2.7 and 15.8.3. In all cases, fuel damage does not occur. Section 15.1.2.2 also discusses the Reactor Vessel Water Level-High turbine /FW pump trip logic and the setpoint values.
7.7.6 Main Condenser, Condensate, and Condensate Demineralizer Systems' Control 7.7.6.1 Design Basis The main condenser, condensate, and condensate demineralizer systems' control is designed to provide indications of system trouble. Main condenser sensors must provide inputs to the reactor protection system to anticipate loss of the main heat sink and to protect against condenser overpressure. The condensate system controls must ensure adequate cooling to the condensate pumps. 7.7.6.2 System Description The condensate/condensate booster pumps discharge without throttling to the suction of the reactor feedwater pumps. See Section 10.4.7 for a description of the condensate system.
Discharge pressure of the condensate pumps is indicated. When a condensate/condensate booster pump is in standby, low pressure on the Reactor Feed Pump (RFP) suction header starts the additional pump. A modulating control valve, located downstream of the condensate booster pumps, recirculates condensate back to the main condenser on low loads. Recirculation maintains a minimum cooling flow through the condensate/condensate booster pumps, steam jet air ejector condensers, gland seal steam condenser, and off-gas condenser.
If a LOCA is detected, when all four pumping units are running, the D pumping unit will trip to limit the loading on the 4-kV busses. This trip can be reset to permit any three of the four pumping units to run during a LOCA.
The 100% condensate filter system (CFS) alarms on trouble indication.
Conductivity of condensate both upstream and downstream of the demi neralizer is measured, recorded, and actuates an alarm on high conductivity.
Main condenser hotwell level is indicated in the control room and is automatically controlled by either making up or returning condensate from the condensate storage tank. Vacuum switches monitoring condenser vacuum provide scram signals to protect the reactor from loss of the main heat sink; protection for the condenser itself is assured by closure of the turbine stop and bypass valves as vacuum decreases below a preset low level.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev 8 June 2009 7.7-31 7.7.6.3 Design Evaluation Indication of key parameters from the main condenser, condensate system, and condensate demineralizer system are provided in the control room. The operator is kept fully cognizant of the conditions of the systems. Abnormal conditions are annunciated so that the operator may take appropriate action. The reactor is protected from loss of the main heat sink by main condenser low vacuum scram signals; the vacuum sensors meet the design requirements established for all reactor protection system functions (Section 7.2). To protect the condenser from overpressure, continued decrease of condenser vacuum below the scram setpoint will initiate closure of the turbine stop valves and bypass valves.
7.7.7 References
- 1. Licensing Topical Report NEDO-21231, "Banked Position Withdrawal Sequence", January 1977.
- 2. Licensing Topical Report NEDO-33091-A, Revision 2, "Improved BPWS Control Rod Insertion Process", July 2004.
- 3. General Electric GEK 111056 October 2004, "General Description of BWR Mark VI Controls".
DRESDEN - UFSAR 7.8-1 7.8 ANTICIPATED TRANSIENT WITHOUT SCRAM MITIGATION SYSTEM
7.8.1 Introduction
This section describes the anticipated transient without scram (ATWS) mitigation system. Related topics and systems include the standby liquid control (SBLC) system, described in Section 9.3.5; the control rod drive (CRD) system, Section 4.6; the reactor recirculation system, Section 5.4.1; the reactor protection system (RPS), Section 7.2; the low pressure coolant in jection (LPCI) system (suppression pool cooling mode), Section 6.2.2; and the ATWS accident analyses, Section 15.8.
An anticipated transient without scram is a postulated operational transient (such as loss of feedwater, loss of condenser vacuum, or loss of offsite power) accompanied by a failure of the reactor protection or control rod drive systems to shut down the reactor. Even though the reactor protection and control rod drive systems have been shown to be highly reliable, it is postulated that a common mode electrical or mechanical failure is possible.
If the control rods fail to insert following a transient which isolates the reactor from the normal cooling system, the resulting pressure rise could be large enough to threaten the integrity of the reactor coolant pressure boundary. Unless core power an d system pressure ar e reduced to within the capacities of the standby cooling and makeup systems within a few minutes, the core can be uncovered and melting can occur, resulting in large releases of radioactive fission products.
Since a normal scram is assumed to be unavailable for reducing reactor power and since the transient event is one in which power reduction is necessary, another method of reducing the power is needed. Two automatic ATWS functions are provided: recirculation pump trip (RPT) and alternate rod insertion (ARI). Should both the RPS and ARI fail to insert the control rods, the SBLC would be manually initiated to control reactivity.
The trip of the reactor recirculation pumps causes a quick reduction in core flow which increases core void generation. These increased voids introduce negative reactivity thus decreasing the reactor power. The quick power reduction brings reactor pressure, neutron flux, and fuel surface heat flux down rapidly enough to limit the peak pressure, clad oxidation, and peak fuel enthalpy so that neither reactor coolant pressure boundary breach nor fuel failure occur.
Alternate rod insertion is a means of control rod insertion which is motivated mechanically by the normal hydraulic control units and control rod drives but which utilizes totally separate and diverse logic from RPS. Alternate rod insertion energizes valves which cause the scram valve pilot air header to bleed down. Although this type of alternate rod insertion does not eliminate the short-term consequences of the assumed failure of normal scram action, it does reduce the long-term consequences. The most significant long-term consequences involve containment limits, particularly suppression pool temperature.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.8-2 7.8.2 Design Requirements The ATWS rule (10 CFR 50.62) requires the following three elements to mitigate ATWS events:
A. Recirculation pump automatic trip equipment;
B. An alternate rod insertion system, diverse from RPS, with redundant scram air header exhaust valves; and C. A standby liquid control system that meets minimum flow and concentration requirements.
The RPT portion of the ATWS mitigation system is designed to perform its function in a reliable manner and to conform to the NRC-approved Monticello design.
[1]
The overall requirements for the ARI portion of the ATWS mitigation system are as follows:
A. The system should be diverse from RPS; B. The system shall be designed so that any component whose single failure can cause insertion of all control rods shall be highly reliable;
C. The system should be testable in service;
D. The system should be designed so that, as much as possible, no single component failure can prevent total mitigation action; and
E. All hardware should be of high quality and environmentally qualified.
For an ATWS (per 10 CFR 50.62), the standby liquid control system must be capable of injecting into the reactor pressure vessel a borated water solution equivalent in reactivity control to injecting 86 gal/min of 13 wt% sodium pentaborate at natural B-10 concentration into a 251-inch inside diameter reactor vessel for a given core design. The specific requirements of flowrate and concentration for Dresden Station are addressed in Section 9.3.5.
7.8.3 Mitigation System Description All of the anticipated transients which require mitigation in the unlikely event of an ATWS quickly reach at least one of two conditions which are readily sensed and from which mitigating actions may be initiated. These conditions are high reactor vessel pressure and low-low reactor water level.
The ATWS mitigation system consists of reactor pressure and reactor water level sensors and trip units, logic, power supplies, and instrumentation to automatically initiate RPT and ARI. The reactor dome pressure automatic actuation was chosen to be slightly above relief valve actuation. (The value used in analysis was 1250 psig.) The low-low reactor water level automatic actuation analytical limit (-59 inches) is that level before which the recirculation DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.8-3 pumps trip (ATWS mitigation function) and low and high pressure coolant injection and core spray (ECCS mitigation function) are initiated. For each division, both mitigation functions are initiated by two independent level transmitters which feed reactor water level signals to a set of dedicated master and slave trip units.
Certain manual actions are required of the operator. Suppression pool cooling and standby liquid control must be initiated manually as required by the Emergency Operating Procedures (EOPs). The following subsections describe the capability and requirements for manual initiation of RPT and ARI. Alarms and indications are available to the operator to allow performance of manual actions within the time limits. In addition to the alarms and indications which are initiated by RPS scram logic, other annunciator windows actuate when the reactor water level or reactor pressure reach the ATWS setpoints. Therefore, during an ATWS event, the operator is alerted that an ATWS event has occurred and then has sufficient time to perform the required manual actions. Figure 7.8-1 shows the ATWS mitigation system block diagram.
7.8.3.1 Recirculation Pump Trip
The ATWS mitigation system automatically initiates a RPT of both recirculation pump M-G set field breakers on a two-out-of-two trip logic in either of two channels upon either continuous low-low reactor water level for a period of time (Analytical Limit: 8.0 to 9.0 seconds) or high reactor pressure. The performance characteristics are as follows:
A. Logic delay for trip (seconds) (Including dynamic response of the sensors, logic action of the breakers and collapse of generator field.)
< 0.53 B. Pump inertial constant (JN/ft, seconds) < 3.0 Manual RPT is achieved by a manual trip of the recirculation pump drive motor breakers. Drive motor breaker control switches are located at panel 902(3)-4 and at the switchgear breakers. Manual RPT should be performed following receipt of alarms indicating an ATWS has occurred if automatic RPT does not occur:
A. High torus water average temperature alarm B. High reactor dome pressure alarm C. Reactor low low water level alarm
7.8.3.2 Alternate Rod Insertion The ATWS mitigation system logic automatically energizes the ARI valves when the ATWS reactor vessel high pressure trip setpoint is reached, the ATWS low-low reactor water level trip setpoint is reached, or the manual switches are actuated.
Two manual initiation pushbutton switches are provided in the control room at panel 902(3) for each division of ARI logic. Failure of automatic initiation cannot prevent manual initiation. In order to avoid an inadvertent manual initiation of ARI, the two initiation switches per division must first be armed by rotating a DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.8-4 collar integral to each pushbutton. Once armed and then depressed, the pair of switches associated with either division activate the ARI trip function.
Manual ARI should be initiated upon reaching any of the following alarm conditions:
A. High torus water average temperature alarm B. High reactor dome pressure alarm C. Reactor low low water level alarm D. Control rod drive position indication not inserted after scram annunciation 7.8.3.3 Alternate Rod Insertion Valves
Upon ATWS initiation (automatic or manual), the ARI solenoid valves (see Section 4.6 and Drawings M-34 and M-365) are energized to block the instrument air supply to the scram air header and to depressurize the scram air header by venting air to atmosphere. Depressurization of the scram air header causes the scram valves to open resulting in the drives scramming. All ARI valves are normally deenergized. The ARI valving system operates as follows:
A. There are two divisions of valves installed on the scram air header. Each division has sufficient capacity to accomplish rod insertion. Each division of valves consists of the following valves:
- 1. Two ARI valves which are normally closed but open when energized to depressurize the scram air header.
- 2. One ARI valve three-way ARI valve which is installed in the scram air header supply line. This valve is normally positioned to allow air to be supplied to the scram air header. When energized, this valve repositions to close off the supply air and vent the scram air header to the atmosphere.
B. Once actuated, the ARI valves remain energized for a minimum of 44.2, but not to exceed 54.2 seconds to ensure the scram air header is adequately depressurized. After this delay, if the initiation signal has cleared, the ARI valves are deenergized. If the initiation signal is still present after the delay, the ARI valves remain energized until the initiation signal clears.
C. Time delay does not exceed 54.2 seconds to ensure that the maximum permissible rod insertion time is not exceeded. Without this limit the design objective stated in Ref. 1 paragraph 3.2.1, i.e. the full rod insertion occurs within approximately 60 seconds of ARI initiation time before the pressure suppression pool temperature reaches 110 F, would not be met. If initiation signal has cleared, operator can reset the time, allow SDV to drain/vent and attempt to insert rods that may not have been fully inserted. [2][1]
7.8.4 Design Evaluation For all transients, the Recirculation Pump Trip (RPT) effectively mitigates the short term ATWS response. The Alternate Rod Injection (ARI) effectively reduces the long term consequences to nearly those of normal scram situations.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 5 January 2003 7.8-5 The sensors, trip units, and actuation relays (with the exception of the RPT reactor low-low water level trip time delay and the ARI reset circuitry) are common to both RPT and ARI. Thus, the automatic initiations occur concurrently (except for the RPT low-low water level time delay) at identical setpoints. Therefore, the following design analyses dealing with the inputs, the logic, and logic power supply apply equally to ARI and RPT. The RPT is modeled after the NRC-approved Monticello design.
The ARI function requires start of control rod motion within 39.2 seconds and full insertion within 44.2 seconds of ARI actuation. Dresden specific analysis confirmed that these parameters are met. Section 7.8.3.3 describes the seal-in and reset time delay of the ARI valves. Based on the NRC-approved topical report,[1] ARI achieves the design objectives. The most limiting of these objectives (pressure suppression pool temperature) requires full rod insertion within approximately 60 seconds.
The ARI design is safety-related and segregated into two electrical divisions; namely, Division I and Division II, which are physically segregated. The RPS is a four-channel electrical arrangement (two
trip systems with two subchannels each) and has individual channel separation. The RPS circuits are not routed with other divisionally segregated circuits of ARI.
The ARI system utilizes valves which are normally deenergized but which are energized to perform their safety function. The ARI valves are powered from dc sources. Conversely, the existing RPS employs ac-powered valves which are deengerized to initiate a scram.
The ARI system uses an analog transmitter/trip unit configuration. The transmitters are separate from sensors used for the RPS. In addition, the trip units utilized are separate from process instruments used for the RPS.
The analytical limit of the ARI trip for reactor pressure is 1250 psig and for reactor vessel water level is -59 inches with respect to reactor level instrument zero. The RPS analytical limit for reactor pressure is 1060 psig and for vessel level is 8 inch with respect to reactor level instrument zero. Therefore, the automatic setpoints for ARI actuation have been selected such that they will not preempt the RPS scram function.
For each actuation parameter (low-low water level or high reactor pressure), the logic is arranged in a two-out-of-two configuration per division. This logic allows individual sensors, trip units, etc. to be tested or calibrated during plant operation without initiating the ARI system.
DRESDEN - UFSAR Rev. 4 7.8-6 7.8.5 References
- 1. General Electric Licensing Topical Report, NEDE-31096-P-A, "Anticipated Transients Without Scram; Response to NRC ATWS Rule, 10 CFR 50.62," February 1987
- 2. General Electric Letter C1100261(65) dated 6/8/95 from Bertram W Joe to Paul Chennel.