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 Start dateReporting criterionTitleEvent descriptionSystemLER
ENS 5601323 July 2022 00:49:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationAuxiliary Feedwater Actuation Signal Received Due to Human Performance Error

The following information was provided by the licensee via email: At 1949 CDT, while operating in Mode 1 at 46 percent power, an Auxiliary Feedwater actuation signal resulted from a human performance error while performing SYS AE-121 to place a second main feedwater pump in service. All systems responded correctly and were restored to standby condition. The Unit remained in Mode 1, at 47 percent power following the actuation. This event is being reported in accordance with 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A) as an event that results in a valid actuation of the Auxiliary Feedwater System. The Senior NRC Resident Inspector has been informed.

  • * * RETRACTION ON 8/16/22 AT 1406 EDT FROM JASON KNUST TO BRIAN P. SMITH * * *

Wolf Creek is retracting the original notification (EN# 56013) of a valid actuation and has recategorized this as a 60-day optional (see EN #56047). Notified R4DO (Werner)

Feedwater
Auxiliary Feedwater
ENS 5600518 July 2022 23:03:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Automatic Reactor Trip Due to Steam Generator LOW Level

The following information was provided by the licensee via email: While operating at 100 percent reactor power, the Control Room received indications of a feedwater transient, and indications of decreasing level on Steam Generator `B.' Reactor Trip occurred approximately 30 seconds after initial indications of transient at 1803 CDT on 7/18/22. All Safety Related Equipment responded as expected, including actuation of Auxiliary Feedwater. Control Room responded properly and progressed through Emergency Operating Procedures. The Unit is Stable in Mode 3. The NRC Senior Resident Inspector has been notified. The following additional information was obtained from the licensee in accordance with Headquarters Operations Officers Report Guidance: The plant is in a normal post-trip electrical line-up. Wolf Creek intends to make a press release.

  • * * UPDATE FROM JOSHUA TURNER TO DONALD NORWOOD AT 1538 EDT ON 7/19/2022 * * *

The original event notification inadvertently indicated that a media / press release would be provided. However, no media / press release is planned. Notified R4DO (Gaddy).

Steam Generator
Feedwater
Auxiliary Feedwater
ENS 5541618 August 2021 15:36:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Automatic Reactor TripAt 1036 CDT on 8/18/2021, Wolf Creek experienced a reactor trip due to low level in B Steam Generator. Auxiliary feedwater system actuated as designed. All systems actuated as expected. Decay heat is currently being removed by the auxiliary feedwater system. The NRC Senior Resident Inspector has been informed. All control rods fully inserted, and offsite power remained available.Steam Generator
Auxiliary Feedwater
Control Rod
ENS 5408724 May 2019 18:10:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationLoss of Offsite Power Due to Fire on Startup TransformerAt 1310 CDT on 5/24/2019, Wolf Creek experienced a loss of offsite power to the safety-related NB02 bus, due to an external fire on a bushing on the startup transformer. The NB02 bus was reenergized when the 'B' Emergency Diesel Generator started and the output breaker automatically closed. The shutdown sequencer automatically started equipment as expected. Due to the undervoltage condition on the NB02 bus, an AFAS-T (Auxiliary Feedwater Actuation Signal) signal was generated which started the turbine driven auxiliary feedwater pump. Turbine load was reduced to maintain reactor power less than 100% in response to the start of turbine driven and 'B' motor driven auxiliary feedwater pumps. The fire was extinguished using a fire extinguisher at 1320 CDT. The unit is stable at 97% power. The NB02 bus remains on the 'B' Emergency Diesel Generator (EDG). The other EDG is operable in standby. The NRC Resident Inspector was notified.Feedwater
Emergency Diesel Generator
Auxiliary Feedwater
ENS 5237117 November 2016 03:09:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationEmergency Diesel Generator Started on Valid Undervoltage SignalWhile in Mode 5, power from the switchyard east bus was lost. AC Emergency Bus NB01 is fed from east or west buses through (breakers) 345-80 or 345-90. Both breakers tripped. The 'A' train emergency diesel generator started on the undervoltage signal and powered NB01. All other systems functioned normally including the Shutdown Sequencer. Shutdown cooling was being provided by train 'B' RHR (residual heat removal) and was uninterrupted. Initial reports are that the #6 transformer brought in an air/gas trouble alarm. The plant is still in Mode 5. The 'A' emergency diesel generator is supplying power to NB01. The switchyard west bus and NB02 remain stable. Transmission reports that the grid is stable. The NRC Senior Resident Inspector has been notified.Emergency Diesel Generator
Shutdown Cooling
ENS 510363 May 2015 15:22:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Feedwater Isolation, Turbine Trip and Manual Reactor Trip During Power AscensionOn 5/3/2015 during power ascension following Refueling Outage 20, Steam Generator 'C' water level increased rapidly, causing a Feedwater isolation on high Steam Generator water level and an associated Turbine trip. The reactor was subsequently manually tripped. At the start of the event, reactor power was approximately 22%. Plant staff was in the process of transferring from Main Feedwater Bypass Feed Regulating Valve control, used for low power control, to Main Feedwater Regulating Valve control as part of power ascension. When the Main Feedwater Regulating Valve for 'C' Steam Generator (AEFCV-530) was opened, it went to about 80% open, causing an overfeed of the 'C' Steam Generator. High Steam Generator water level in 'C' Steam Generator initiated an automatic Feedwater Isolation Signal, automatic Turbine Trip and automatic trip of the operating main feed pump. The operating crew initiated a manual reactor trip. The Auxiliary Feedwater System automatically initiated as part of the plant response to the feedwater system transient. The plant is presently stable in Mode 3. All equipment functioned normally, except the 'C' Main Feedwater Regulating Valve (AEFCV0530) which did not function to properly control Steam Generator level. This valve did function as designed to close on the Feedwater Isolation Signal. NRC Resident Inspector has been contacted.Steam Generator
Feedwater
Auxiliary Feedwater
ENS 5085528 February 2015 06:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationAutomatic Auxiliary Feedwater Actuation Due to Planned Reactor Trip

Wolf Creek Generating Station performed a planned shutdown for the start of a refueling outage. As part of the procedure GEN 00-005, Minimum Load to Hot Standby, a planned manual reactor trip was initiated from 25 percent power level with the plant in Mode 1. As part of this planned shut down sequence, an anticipated automatic Auxiliary Feedwater (AFW) actuation signal was generated. This is a non-emergency event notification in accordance with 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A) due to preplanned manual actuation of the reactor protection system and auto-initiation of auxiliary feed water system. All systems and components operated as designed with the exception of the main generator output breakers. They did not open as designed. They were manually opened using the main control room hand switches as directed by EMG ES-02, Reactor Trip Response. The plant is stable in Mode 3 with AFW secured, with plans to cool down and enter Mode 5 for the planned refueling outage. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified.

  • * * EVENT RETRACTED ON 03/11/15 AT 13:05 EDT FROM BRET DAVIS TO JEFF HERRERA * * *

WCNOC (Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Corporation) is retracting the 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A) notification based on further review of the event. A valid AFAS (Auxiliary Feedwater Actuation signal) actuation occurred during the planned shutdown as a result of SG (Steam Generator) water level reaching the lo lo level setpoint. The AFAS actuation was an expected actuation that occurred due to preplanned activities covered by GEN 00-005. On-shift control room personnel were aware that an AFAS actuation would occur as a result of tripping the plant between 30% and 25% power. The AFAS actuated consistent with the planned shutdown with no anomalies. This is consistent with NUREG-1022, Rev. 3, Section 3.2.6 that states, in part: 'With regard to preplanned actuations, operation of a system as part of a planned test or operational evolution need not be reported. Preplanned actuations are those that are expected to actually occur due to preplanned activities covered by procedures. Such actuations are those for which a procedural step or other appropriate documentation indicates that the specific actuation is actually expected to occur. Control room personnel are aware of the specific signal generation before its occurrence or indication in the control room.' The NRC Resident Inspector was notified. Notified R4DO(Okeefe).

Feedwater
Reactor Protection System
Auxiliary Feedwater
Auxiliary Feed Water
ENS 4933911 September 2013 22:31:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(i), Tech Spec Required Shutdown
Technical Specification Required Shutdown Due to Loss of Cooling to Switchgear Rooms

Wolf Creek has commenced a plant shutdown in accordance with Technical Specifications. The A Train Class 1E Electrical Equipment Air Conditioning unit was declared non-functional due to a possible failed compressor cylinder, as indicated by increased vibration. This failure could prevent the unit from performing its required function over its required mission time, as required by Technical Specifications 3.8.4, 3.8.7, and 3.8.9. The following safety related electrical equipment was declared inoperable: 4.16KV Bus NB01; 480 Volt AC buses NG01 and NG03; 120 Volt Instrument AC inverters and buses NN11, NN13, NN01 and NN03; 125 VDC chargers and buses NK11, NK13, NN01 and NN03. Technical Specification 3.0.3 was entered at 1645 CDT on 9/11/2013 from Technical Specification 3.8.7 due to two out of four 120 VAC inverters (NN11 and NN13) being inoperable. Plant shutdown to Mode 5 commenced at 1731 CDT. The unit is currently at approximately 50% power. All electrical systems listed above remain available but are declared inoperable due to inadequate room cooling capability. No major equipment is out of service. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified. No switchgear room temperature limits were challenged. See EN #49008 (May 6, 2013) and EN #49126 (June 17, 2013) for similar events.

  • * * UPDATE ON 9/12/13 AT 0215 EDT FROM MARCY BLOW TO HUFFMAN * * *

At 00:36 CDT 9/12/13, Wolf Creek had an Auxiliary Feedwater Actuation during a plant shutdown in accordance with Technical Specifications. The plant was in Mode 3, all control rods inserted, with reactor trip breakers closed when low steam generator levels prompted a manual reactor trip. A Valid Auxiliary Feed Actuation signal was received due to low steam generator levels. All Auxiliary Feedwater pumps started and operated as expected. The licensee has informed the NRC Resident Inspector. R4DO (Hay) notified.

Steam Generator
Auxiliary Feedwater
Control Rod
ENS 4759013 January 2012 20:03:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(A), Loss of Safety Function - Shutdown the Reactor
10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(a)(1)(i), Emergency Class Declaration
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Notification of Unusual Event and Reactor Trip Due to Loss of Offsite Power

At 1403 CST, Wolf Creek experienced a reactor trip due to loss of power in the switchyard. At 1415 CST, Wolf Creek declared a Notification of Unusual Event (NOUE) when it was determined that the switchyard would not be restored within 15 minutes. All systems functioned as expected in response to this event and both Emergency Diesel Generators started and energized the safety-related buses. The plant is currently stable in Mode 3 and investigation into the cause for loss of power in the switchyard is underway. During the trip, all rods inserted into the core. No primary relief valves lifted as a result of the transient. Decay heat is being removed via the atmospheric steam dumps with auxiliary feedwater supplying the steam generators. The plant is stable at NOP/NOT. No safety significant equipment is reported out of service. The licensee has notified state and local governments and the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM DAVE DEES TO VINCE KLCO AT 1851 EST ON 1/13/12 * * *

At 1709 CST, the licensee exited the NOUE when power was restored to the east bus from offsite. Additionally, the licensee is reporting a loss of safe shutdown capability in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(A) due to the initial loss of offsite power. The licensee has notified state and local governments, the NRC Resident Inspector, and will be issuing a press release on the event. Notified R4DO (Powers), IRD (Marshall), NRR (Cheok), FEMA (Burckart) and DHS (Hill).

Steam Generator
Emergency Diesel Generator
Auxiliary Feedwater
ENS 4699026 June 2011 21:09:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Reactor Manual Trip Due to Main Feed Pump Trip

6/26/11 at 1609 CDT, the reactor was manually tripped due to the trip of the 'B' Main Feed Pump while operating in Mode 1 at approximately 82% reactor power. The unit was increasing power to 95% after the current refuel outage. The cause of the trip of the 'B' Main Feed Pump is not known at this time. All equipment functioned normally as expected. The investigation into the cause of the 'B' Main Feed Pump trip is ongoing at this time. Current plant status is Mode 3. The NRC Senior Resident has been contacted. All rods fully inserted upon reactor trip. The unit is stable with Auxiliary Feedwater supplying the Steam Generators. Decay heat is being removed to the Main Condenser via steam dumps. The electrical system is in a normal post-trip alignment. The licensee characterized the reactor trip as uncomplicated.

  • * * UPDATE FROM MARCY BLOW TO DONALD NORWOOD AT 1923 EDT ON 6/26/2011 * * *

A valid Auxiliary Feed(water) actuation signal (occurred) due to trip of both of the Main Feed pumps from a turbine trip and low steam generator levels. This is reportable under 10CFR50.72 (b)(3)(iv)(A), 8-hour report. All auxiliary feed pumps started and operated as expected. The licensee will notify the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R4DO (Deese).

Steam Generator
Auxiliary Feedwater
Main Condenser
ENS 4687724 May 2011 16:20:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationLo-Lo Level in Steam Generator Results in Specified System ActuationsAt 11:20 (CDT) on 5/24/11, the unit, while in Mode 4, had a reactor trip and Aux Feedwater actuation/Feedwater Isolation Signal due to lo-lo level on 'B' Steam Generator. Reactor Trip breakers were closed to support DRPI (Digital Rod Position Indication) testing. Steam Generator levels were being maintained approximately 30% to support Aux Feedwater pump full flow testing. The trip occurred at 23.5% level in the steam generator. Reactor trip breakers opened and the motor-driven auxiliary feedwater pump fed the steam generators. The feedwater isolation valves fully closed. No other actuations occurred. Operators are in the process of resetting plant conditions to support completion of the testing in progress at the time of the trip. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.Steam Generator
Feedwater
Auxiliary Feedwater
ENS 4668519 March 2011 09:04:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(A), System Actuation - ECCS Discharge
Safety Injection Discharge to the Reactor

Following a scheduled plant shutdown for refueling the operators were forced to close the Main Steam Isolation Valves (MSIV's) to limit plant cooldown. While opening MSIV's to restore steam to the secondary, a Reactor Trip and Safety Injection (SI) occurred. The MSIV bypass valves were opened to equalize pressure across the MSIV's. Steam header pressure dipped when the MSIV for 'C' Steam Generator (S/G) was opened. The low steamline pressure bistables are rate sensitive and actuated to cause the SI when steam pressure dipped. Lowest steamline pressure was 1040 psig, the low steam line pressure SI actuates at 615 psig. During the SI the PZR (Pressurizer) PORV's cycled approximately 10 times to limit RCS pressure. When the PORV's opened the 'B' PZR Code Safety Main Control Board (MCB) and plant computer alarm actuated but the actual MCB indication did not change nor does plant response indicate that a PZR Code Safety opened. This appears to be an indication problem related to the PORV's cycling. All equipment functioned as required. The station electric buses are aligned to normal offsite power. Decay heat removal is being discharged to the atmospheric relief valves with no indication of primary to secondary leakage. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM MARCY BLOW TO DONALD NORWOOD AT 1221 EDT ON 3/19/2011 * * *

1. The expected system actuations that occurred when the plant experienced a Safety Injection (SI) 03/19/11 at 04:04 CDT, previously reported on EN 46685 for 10CFR50.72(b)(2)(iv)(A), is also reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A) for Specified System Actuation.

2. During the recovery of the Safety Injection (SI) actuation that occurred 03/19/11 at 04:04 CDT and previously reported on EN 46685, the Safety Injection Signal was reset which blocked any further automatic actuation. This was directed per the appropriate procedure step. There is no Technical Specifications allowed condition for both trains of ECCS to be inoperable, therefore the unit entered Tech. Spec. 3.0.3 due to the Auto SI feature being blocked. LCO 3.5.2 action C.1. directs immediate entry into LCO 3.0.3. The entry into TS 3.0.3 was made at 0411 CDT and exited at 0639 CDT when the Reactor Trip Breakers were reclosed which re-enabled the automatic SI signal. This is reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(D) for Accident Mitigation. NRC Resident was notified of the update. Notified R4DO(Cain).

Steam Generator
Main Steam Isolation Valve
Decay Heat Removal
ENS 4633817 October 2010 14:53:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Reactor Trip on Low Steam Generator Level During Plant StartupAt 0953 CDT, Wolf Creek experienced a reactor trip due to low steam generator level. At the time of the trip the plant was in Mode 1 approximately 16% power following a forced outage. A feedwater isolation signal (FWIS) was generated due to high S/G level (P-14) in 'B' S/G (steam generator). The FWIS resulted in a low S/G level. Although a manual reactor trip was ordered by the duty Shift Manager, the manual trip signal was not inserted before the reactor automatically tripped on low steam generator level. Auxiliary Feed Water systems actuated as expected due to low steam generator levels. The plant is presently in Mode 3 at normal operating temperature and pressure. The Senior Resident Inspector has been notified. All control rods fully inserted during the trip. All three Auxiliary Feedwater Pumps started to maintain S/G levels. The plant was stabilized with the motor driven startup feedwater pump maintaining S/G level. Decay heat is being removed using the atmospheric steam dumps. There is no primary to secondary leakage. The plant is in its normal shutdown electrical lineup. A press release will be issued.Steam Generator
Feedwater
Auxiliary Feedwater
Control Rod
ENS 4596429 May 2010 22:30:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationContainment Purge Isolation Signal Caused Control Room Isolation System Actuation

While operating in Mode 1, 100% rated thermal power (RTP), Wolf Creek received a Containment Purge Isolation Signal (CPIS) caused by Containment Purge Exhaust Radiation Monitor GT RE-33 exceeding the high radiation trip setpoint. There was no containment purge in progress at the time of the CPIS so no containment dampers actuated or were required to actuate. Control Room Ventilation Isolation Signal (CRVIS) was also received, as expected, from the actuation of the CPIS. All CRVIS components actuated as required. Review of GT RE-33 identified that the radiation monitor spiked high causing the CPIS then returned to normal values. All other containment radiation monitors are indicating normal values. The NRC Resident has been notified of this event by the Licensee. GT RE-33 is currently removed from service.

  • * * UPDATE AT 1630 EDT ON 06/21/10 FROM RICK HUBBARD TO S. SANDIN * * *

The licensee is retracting this event based on the following: The Containment Purge Exhaust Radiation Monitor GT RE-33 failed due to a corrupted database initiated by a Radiation Monitor System (RMS) communication loop problem. The signal was not initiated by actual plant conditions or parameters, so this was an invalid actuation. This actuation did not involve a critical scram. So it is not reportable per 10 CFR 50.72. The licensee will inform the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R4DO (Pick).

ENS 457498 March 2010 09:33:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Manual Reactor Trip Due to Loss of All Main FeedwaterWolf Creek experienced an 'A' Main Feedwater Pump (MFP) trip at 0332 CST during a plant startup. Reactor power was 42% at the time of the manual reactor trip. The loss of the 'A' MFP resulted in no feedwater flow to the Steam Generators and a manual reactor trip was ordered due to the impending reactor trip on low-low Steam Generator level. Post-trip decay heat was being removed by the Condenser and Auxiliary Feedwater System. Reactor Coolant System (RCS) temperature dropped below 550 degrees Fahrenheit, which required emergency boration to ensure shutdown margin was maintained. Emergency boration was secured at 0404 CST when RCS temperature was raised to greater than 550 degrees Fahrenheit. The lowest RCS temperature reached following the reactor trip was 544 degrees Fahrenheit. The cause of the 'A' Main Feedwater Pump trip is not known at this time. Primary to secondary leakage is less than 0.224 gallons per day. All systems functioned as designed. The plant is being maintained at normal Mode 3 pressure and temperature. The licensee has notified the Senior NRC Resident Inspector. All control rods fully inserted. The plant is in a normal post-trip electrical line-up.Steam Generator
Reactor Coolant System
Feedwater
Auxiliary Feedwater
Control Rod
ENS 457455 March 2010 06:07:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationSpecified System Actuation - Feedwater Isolation Due to High Steam Generator Water Level

A Turbine trip and Feedwater Isolation Signal was generated as a result of high level in 'A' Steam Generator. At approximately 0007 CST, a turbine trip and Feedwater Isolation Signal was generated when the level in the 'A' Steam Generator exceeded the initiation set point of 78%. Steam Generator level returned below the initiation setpoint at approximately 0008 CST. Steam Generator 'A' high level resulted from swell of the Steam Generator after opening the 'A' Main Steam Isolation Valve. Level was approximately 50% prior to the event and returned to approximately 50% within one minute. The turbine was already in the tripped condition due to the plant trip that occurred at 1458 CST on 03/02/2010 (Reference EN# 45739). Steam Generators are being fed with the motor driven startup Feedwater pump. Decay heat removal is via the Steam Generator Atmospheric Relief Valves and steam dumps. The plant is in Mode 4 with Reactor Coolant System pressure at approximately 500 psig and temperature at approximately 332 degrees F. Two Main Feedwater isolation valves did not fully close but the actuators were being supplied with auxiliary medium (air) at the time of the actuation. Feedwater isolation valves are not required to be operable in Mode 4. The licensee will notify the NRC Resident Inspector.

* * * RETRACTION FROM RICK HUBBARD TO PETE SNYDER AT 1456 ON 4/29/2010 * * * 

This event (Event Number 45745) is being retracted. A valid actuation of any systems listed in paragraph 50.72 (b)(3)(iv)(B) did not occur. The plant was in Mode 4 and neither a reactor trip nor an auxiliary feedwater system actuation signal occurred. Additional evaluation determined that the turbine trip and feedwater isolation signal are a function of the ESFAS (Engineered Safety Features Actuation System) instrumentation and does not result in an actuation of the RPS (Reactor Protection System) or other systems listed in paragraph 50.72 (b)(3)(iv)(B). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R4DO(Clark).

Steam Generator
Reactor Coolant System
Feedwater
Main Steam Isolation Valve
Auxiliary Feedwater
Decay Heat Removal
ENS 457392 March 2010 20:58:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Automatic Reactor Trip Caused by Low Steam Generator Water LevelWolf Creek experienced a reactor trip at 1458 CST. The first out annunciator was Steam Generator Level Lo Lo Reactor Trip. The trip was caused by the loss of the 'A' Main Feed Pump. The cause of the loss of the feed pump was due to the loss of 120 VAC non-safety instrument inverter PN09. PN09 supplies the Main Feed Pump Speed Control Circuitry. The loss of the PN09 also resulted in the loss of the ability to dump steam to the main condenser. Initial post trip decay heat was being removed with the Steam Generator Atmospheric Relief Valves and Auxiliary Feed Water. The Atmospheric Relief Valves cycled from approximately 1458 CST until approximately 1504 CST. Primary to Secondary leakage is less than 2.68 gallons per day. PN09 was re-energized at 1554 CST. All systems functioned as designed with the exception of the instrumentation powered by PN09. At the time of the trip the 'A' Emergency Diesel Generator and the 'A' Class IE Air Conditioning Unit were out of service for maintenance. The plant is being maintained at normal Mode 3 pressure and temperature. The reactor trip was uncomplicated and decay heat is currently being removed by steam dumps to the main condensers. The licensee has notified the NRC Senior Resident Inspector.Steam Generator
Emergency Diesel Generator
Auxiliary Feedwater
Main Condenser
ENS 4528121 August 2009 11:48:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationFeed Water Isolation Due to High Steam Generator Water LevelTurbine trip and Feed (Water) Isolation Signal generated as result of high level in 'A' Steam Generator. At approximately 0648 CDT a turbine trip and Feed Water Isolation Signal was generated when the level in the 'A' Steam Generator exceeded the initiation set point of 78%. Steam Generator level returned below the initiation setpoint at approximately 0656 CDT. The turbine was already in the tripped condition and Feed Water Isolation Valves closed due to the plant trip that occurred at 1549 CDT on 8/19/2009 (Reference EN# 45278). Steam Generators are being fed with the motor driven Auxiliary Feed Water Pumps. Decay heat removal is via the Steam Generator Atmospheric Relief Valves. The plant is in Mode 3 with Reactor Coolant System pressure at approximately 2235 psig and temperature at approximately 561 F. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.Steam Generator
Reactor Coolant System
Auxiliary Feedwater
Decay Heat Removal
05000482/LER-2009-004
ENS 4527819 August 2009 20:49:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Automatic Reactor Trip Caused by Turbine Trip

Wolf Creek experienced a reactor trip at 1549 CDT. The first out annunciator was TURBINE TRIP and P9 Reactor TRIP. At approximately the same time the unit experienced a momentary loss of offsite power. The emergency diesel generators started (and loaded) as expected to supply power to the safety busses due to the loss of offsite power. Auxiliary Feedwater and Feedwater Isolation actuations occurred as expected. All control rods inserted into the core during the trip. All Reactor Coolant Pumps tripped due to the loss of offsite power. Decay heat was initially being removed by the Steam Generator Atmospheric Relief Valves. Presently the plant is stable in Mode 3. The 'D' Reactor Coolant Pump has been restarted. The licensee is continuing to investigate the cause of the trip. The atmospheric relief valves lifted for approximately 10 minutes, however there was no primary to secondary leakage. Both A & B EDG's loaded for about 2 minutes. At the present time the electrical lineup is normal and the EDG's are shutdown. Plant is at Normal Operating Pressure and just below Normal Operating Temperature. Decay heat and S/G levels are being maintained with the Auxiliary Feedwater pumps. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. The Licensee may issue a press release on this event.

  • * * UPDATE FROM DAVE DEES TO VINCE KLCO AT 1135 EDT ON 8/21/2009 * * *

The atmospheric relief valves lifted for approximately 2 minutes, not 10 minutes as stated above. Also the A & B EDG's did not load for only 2 minutes. Actually "the B Safety Bus was paralleled to its normal off site source and the B Emergency Diesel was realigned for auto-start at 1740. The A Safety Bus was paralleled to its normal off site source and the A Emergency Diesel was realigned for auto-start at 1844. Notified the R4DO (Jones).

  • * * UPDATE FROM DAVE DEES TO VINCE KLCO AT 1730 EDT ON 8/25/2009 * * *

The initial report stated that there was no primary to secondary leakage. Actual primary to secondary leakage as measured on 8/14/2009 was a value of less than 0.722 gallons per day. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified the R4DO (Miller)

Steam Generator
Feedwater
Emergency Diesel Generator
Auxiliary Feedwater
Control Rod
ENS 4502728 April 2009 20:27:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Automatic Reactor Trip on Low Steam Generator Level Due to Feedwater Valve FailureWolf Creek experienced a reactor trip at 1527 CDT. The RX trip resulted from low level in 'B' S/G. (The) 'B' Main Feedwater Regulating Valve (FRV) AE FCV-520 closed causing a loss of feedwater to the 'B' S/G. Initial investigation indicates that the FRV controllers lost power due to blown primary and backup fuses associated with its card rack. One intermediate range instrument (SE NI-36) stuck at 10E-10 amps requiring manual energization of source range instruments. Aux Feedwater and Feedwater Isolation actuations occurred as expected. All control rods inserted into the core during the trip. There were no relief or safety valves actuated during the transient. The electrical plant is in the normal shutdown alignment with offsite power supply emergency busses. Decay heat is being removed via the steam dumps to condenser. The licensee is investigating the cause of the blown fuses. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.Steam Generator
Feedwater
Control Rod
ENS 4407217 March 2008 18:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Manual Reactor Trip Due to Lowering Steam Generator Level Due to the Loss of 'B' Main Feed Water PumpWhile operating at 100% rated thermal power in Mode 1, a Manual Reactor Trip was initiated due to the lowering of Steam Generator (S/G) level due to the loss of 'B' Main Feed Water Pump. Initial investigation indicates that the loss of XPB03 transformer caused the loss of Non-Class 1E 4160VAC PB03 and PB04. At the time of the event, bus PB04 was cross-tied with bus PB03 for scheduled maintenance of transformer XPB04. This caused loss of all condensate and heater drain pumps. A manual reactor trip was actuated in anticipation of an automatic reactor trip. Aux Feed auto actuation did occur as required. The Non-Safety Related Charging pump was lost due to the loss of PB03 and charging flow was re-established to the Reactor Coolant System by starting 'A' Charging pump. All other plant equipment functioned as required. The plant is currently stable in Mode 3 at 560 degrees F and 2235 psig. Continuing to investigate. At 15:03 CDT, plant experienced an auto Feed Water Isolation signal due to Low-Low S/G level. Feed Water Isolation had already occurred with the initial event but the signal had been previously been reset. Manual feed water flow control has been established from Aux Feed Water. All control rods inserted into the core during the trip. Decay heat is being removed via the steam dumps to condenser using AFW to feed the steam generators. No primary or secondary relief valves lifted during the transient. The electrical grid is stable and supplying plant safety loads via the normal path. NRC Resident has been notified.Steam Generator
Reactor Coolant System
Control Rod
ENS 4111311 October 2004 12:25:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationLoss of Switchyard West BusOn 10/11/2004 at 0725 CDT, Wolf Creek Generating Station experienced a loss of the west bus in the switchyard causing a loss of power to the Startup Transformer and the 'B' Train 4.16 Kv ESFAS bus NB02. The 'B' Emergency Diesel Generator started and loaded, as expected, to supply power to the NB02 bus. The shutdown sequencer started the required components. Turbine load was reduced by the control room staff following the expected start of the steam driven auxiliary feedwater pump to maintain reactor thermal power below license limits. Following the shutdown sequencer start of the 'B' Essential Service Water (ESW) pump it was noted the 'B' Control Room Air Conditioning unit condenser inlet end bell gasket had started leaking. The Control Room Air Conditioning unit was secured and ESW was isolated to and from the unit. All other equipment operated as required. System Operations and Site personnel are investigating the cause of the power loss to the west switchyard bus, no cause has been identified at this time. Turbine load is being reduced to 950 MWe net per System Operations request to ensure grid stability is maintained. The Senior Resident has been contacted concerning this issue. The licensee intends to reduce reactor power to 78-80% while investigating the cause for the loss of the west bus. There is no indication of any malevolent intent involved. The "B" EDG will maintain loads on the NB02 bus.Service water
Emergency Diesel Generator
Auxiliary Feedwater
ENS 411007 October 2004 16:48:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News Release
10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Automatic Reactor Trip Due to Main Turbine TripAt 1148 CDT on 10-7-2004, Wolf Creek Generating Station experienced on automatic reactor trip as a result of a turbine trip. Initial indications are that the trip was associated with a lightning strike in the switchyard. All control rods fully inserted. The 'A' train of the Residual Heat Removal system and the 'A' train Class IE Safety Related Switchgear Air Conditioning Unit were out of service for scheduled maintenance at the time of this event. All other safety related equipment operated as expected. The Auxiliary Feedwater system actuated as designed. The plant is currently stable in Mode 3 at Normal Operating Temperature and Pressure while plant personnel investigate the cause of the reactor trip and formulate the repair and restart plan. The NRC Senior Resident inspector has been informed. A news statement relative to this event is planned. Secondary atmospheric relief valves lifted and reseated as a result of the trip, however there was no release to the environment. Decay heat is being removed via the steam dumps. The electrical grid is stable.Auxiliary Feedwater
Residual Heat Removal
Control Rod
ENS 4097422 August 2004 15:10:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Reactor Trip During Surveillance Test

At 1010 CDT on 8-22-2004, during the performance of STS IC-211B, 'ACTUATION LOGIC TEST TRAIN B SOLID STATE PROTECTION SYSTEM,' Control Room operators received a reactor trip concurrent with power range flux lo (low) setpoint trip and intermediate range hi (high) flux reactor trip alarms. All safety-related equipment operated as required. The Steam Dump valves, which function to remove excess heat as the secondary systems shutdown, did not initially operate as expected, resulting in the operation of the Steam Generator Atmospheric Relief Valves (ARVs) to control Reactor Coolant pressure for approximately three minutes following the reactor trip, at which time the Steam Dump valves responded as expected and the ARVs closed. The Steam Dumps are currently operating correctly in automatic. The Auxiliary Feedwater System actuated as designed. The plant is currently stable in Mode 3 at Normal Operating Temperature and Pressure while plant personnel investigate the causes of the reactor trip and formulate the repair/ restart plan. A press release is planned. During the reactor trip, all control rods fully inserted. The electric plant is in a stable shutdown plant lineup. Plant personnel also intend to investigate the unusual response of the steam dump valves. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * Update on 08/23/04 at 1635 EDT by Steven Gifford taken by MacKinnon * * *

Upon data review related to the operation of the Steam Dump valves and the Atmospheric Relief Valves (ARVs), plant staff has determined that the ARVs and Steam Dump valves operated as expected. The Steam Dump valves opened immediately following the reactor trip, as designed, due to the difference between their setpoint and the Reactor Coolant System (RCS) temperature at the time of the reactor trip. The Steam Dump valves remained open for approximately 20 to 30 seconds, at which time the RCS temperature had decreased to a value within the control range for the Steam Dump valves, causing them to close. The opening of the ARVs was in response, as designed, to the increase in Steam Generator pressure that resulted from the turbine trip shortly after the reactor trip."

NRC R4DO (Tom Farnholtz) notified.

The NRC Resident Inspector was notified of this update by the licensee

Steam Generator
Reactor Coolant System
Auxiliary Feedwater
Control Rod
ENS 405727 March 2004 03:47:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationPlant Had a Loss of Power to the Startup Transformer and the "B" Train 4.16Kv Esfas Bus.

On 03/06/2004 at 2147 CDT Wolf Creek Generating Station experienced a loss of the west bus in the switchyard causing a loss of power to the Startup Transformer and the "B" Train 4.16 KV ESFAS bus, NB02. The "B" Emergency Diesel Generator started and loaded, as expected, upon the loss of power from the Startup Transformer. All systems and equipment operated as expected for a loss of power to NB02. Reactor power was lowered by the control room staff following the expected start of the steam driven aux. feedwater pump to maintain reactor thermal power below license limits. The cause of the loss of power appears to be the failure of one of the 13.8 KV output bushings on the Startup Transformer. System Operations has dispatched a line crew to the Wolf Creek switchyard to investigate and initiate repair activities. System Operations has reported that all three (3) lines to Wolf Creek are energized and have proper voltage. The plant also entered a 72 hour LCO action statement due to the loss of the power source. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

      • Update on 03/07/04 at 1820 EST by Steve Gifford taken by MacKinnon ****

Licensee will have a contractor perform Doble Testing of Startup Transformer windings and also determine if the bushing has been damaged. Testing results should be known by midnight CST. Repair time will depend on test results. R4DO (Greg Peck) notified. NRC Resident Inspector was notified of the update by the licensee.

Feedwater
Emergency Diesel Generator
ENS 4051713 February 2004 14:10:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Rps Actuation Due to Low Steam Generator LevelAt 0810 CST on 2-13-2004, all four Steam Generators alarmed with Steam Flow/Feed Flow Mismatch alarms, followed by indication of decreasing level in "D" Steam Generator. The reactor tripped approximately 20 seconds later on Lo-Lo level at 23.5% in "D" Steam Generator, as required. The cause of the loss of feedwater flow to "D" Steam Generator is under investigation. All plant safety related systems operated as required. The Steam Dumps, which function to remove excess heat as the secondary systems shutdown, exhibited control problems resulting in operation of the Steam Generator Atmospheric Relief Valves (ARVs) until the steam dump controller setpoint was adjusted and the steam dumps began to operate normally. The steam dumps are currently operating in automatic. The Steam Generator ARVs closed when the steam dumps began to operate. The auxiliary feedwater system actuated as designed, and a Feedwater Isolation signal was generated as designed on Lo-Lo Steam Generator Level. The plant is currently stable in Mode 3 at NOP and NOT while plant personnel investigate the causes of the trip and formulate the repair/restart plan. Decay heat is currently being removed via the steam dumps. The plant electrical system responded normally and all emergency diesel generators remain in standby. There are no primary to secondary leaks. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.Steam Generator
Feedwater
Emergency Diesel Generator
Auxiliary Feedwater
ENS 4008618 August 2003 20:54:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Automatic Reactor Trip Due Low Low "B" Steam Generator Water LevelAt 1554 CDT on 08/18/2003 all four Steam Generators alarmed with Steam Flow/Feed Flow Mismatch followed by indication that there was no feedwater flow to the "B" Steam Generator. The reactor tripped approximately 20 seconds later on Steam Generator Low-Low Level, 23.5% Narrow Range, as required. A review of the plant computer information shows that event-initiating cause may be the unexplained closure of the "B" Feedwater Isolation Valve. All plant safety related systems operated as required. The Steam Dumps, which function to remove excess heat as the secondary systems shutdown, exhibited control problems when they were shifted from temperature control mode to steam pressure mode, as required by the emergency operating procedures. The Steam Dumps are currently operating and controlling in manual mode. When the reactor tripped all four Steam Generator Atmospheric Relief Valves opened, a normal response for a trip from full power. The "A" Steam Generator Atmospheric Relief Valve was slow to close in automatic. The valve was closed in manual and returned to automatic and is controlling properly. The plant is currently stable in Mode 3 at NOP and NOT while plant personnel investigate the causes of the trip and formulate the repair/restart plan. All Emergency Core Cooling Systems and the Emergency Diesel Generators are fully operable if needed. The electrical grid is stable. The NRC Resident Inspector is in the Control Room.Steam Generator
Feedwater
Emergency Diesel Generator
Emergency Core Cooling System