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 Start dateReporting criterionEvent description
05000265/LER-2017-00115 May 2017
13 July 2017
10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident

On May 15, 2017, at 19:18 hours, station Operations personnel were performing a High Pressure Coolant Injection (HPCI) Pump Operability Test which ensures the HPCI Minimum Flow Valve opens as pump flow decreases. When the HPCI Turbine was tripped, the Minimum Flow Valve did not open as expected when system flow was reduced to the low flow setpoint. Operators took steps to open the valve manually, but upon release of the control switch, the valve returned to the closed position.

The valve was then left in the closed position.

The HPCI system was declared inoperable and Technical Specification 3.5.1 Condition G was entered.

The cause of the Minimum Flow Valve failing to open was attributed to the HPCI Pump Discharge Flow Indicating Switch, specifically, intermittent failure of the high side micro switch caused by residual material from the manufacturing process.

The Flow Indicating Switch, which had been installed for three months, was replaced and the HPCI Pump Operability Test was successfully re-performed. The failed switch was then sent to Exelon's Power Labs for failure analysis.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. Given the impact on the HPCI system, this report is submitted for Unit 2 in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(v)(D), which requires the reporting of any event or condition that could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function of structures or systems that are needed to mitigate the consequences of an accident. The HPCI system is a single train system and the loss of HPCI could impact the plant's ability to mitigate the consequences of an accident.

05000265/LER-2016-00325 May 201610 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), Prohibited by Technical Specifications

result, the Station determined that a drywell entry was required to investigate the condition, make any needed repairs, and refill the oil reservoir. NRC provided that Station personnel did not comply with Technical Specifications (TS) 3.6.2.5 (DW to Suppression.

Chamber DP) and 3.6.3.1 (Primary Containment 02 concentration) since while in MODE 1, at the end of the 32 hour Completion Time (24 hour Action A, plus the 8 hour Action B) during the actual plant evolutions for power ascension, these Required Actions were not met because the associated Applicability for each TS were not met since the Unit remained in MODE 1.

The cause of the issue was Station personnel understanding and application of the subject TS as used in context under this infrequent plant condition, differed from the NRC's understanding and application of the subject TS. The specific difference is with the application of the term, "start-up," as used in the LCO Applicability.

Corrective actions included issuance of an Operations Standing Order, and revision of pertinent Operating procedures to ensure these Tech Specs are properly implemented.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. Given the impact on the Drywell/Suppression Chamber Differential Pressure, and Primary Containment Oxygen Concentration Technical Specifications, this report is submitted for Unit 2 in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), which requires the reporting of a past operation or condition which was prohibited by the plant Technical Specifications.

PLANT AND SYSTEM IDENTIFICATION

General Electric - Boiling Water Reactor, 2957 Megawatts Thermal Rated Core Power Energy Industry Identification System (EIIS) codes are identified in the text as (XX).

EVENT IDENTIFICATION

Compliance Issue with the Drywell/Suppression Chamber Differential Pressure, and Primary Containment Oxygen Concentration Technical Specifications

A. CONDITION PRIOR TO EVENT

Unit: 2 Reactor Mode: 1 Event Date: May 25, 2016 Event Time: 11:10 hours Mode Name: Power Operation Power Level: 100%

B. DESCRIPTION OF EVENT

On 05/23/16 Low Level Alarm (LA) 2A Recirc (AD) Motor (MO) occurred due to a low oil level condition for the 2A recirculation pump (P) motor. As a result, the Station determined that a drywell (NH) entry was required to investigate the condition, make any needed repairs, and refill the oil reservoir (TK). NRC provided that Station personnel did not comply with TS 3.6.2.5 (DW to Suppression Chamber DP) and 3.6.3.1 (Primary Containment 02 concentration (BB)) since while in MODE 1, at the end of the 32 hour Completion Time (24 hour Action A, plus the 8 hour Action B) during the actual plant evolutions for power ascension, the Required Actions B for TS 3.6.2.5 and TS 3.6.3.1 were not met (at 1110 on 5/25/16, and 1123 on 5/25/16, respectively), because the Unit 2 LCO Applicability for establishing DW/Torus differential pressure and being fully inerted were not met since the Unit remained in MODE 1.

NRC provided that these TS were not met when the Station improperly used the LCO Applicability (a), 24 hour "clock reset" allowance to proceed above 15% power "following startup" without setting the DW/Torus differential pressure (Dp) > 1 psid, and oxygen concentration contrary to the NRC's "plain language" interpretation of this associated TS Applicability, in that "following startup" was intended to mean "following MODE 2." Furthermore, the NRC provided that the Unit did not exit the Mode of Applicability just by dropping below 15% Rated Thermal Power (RTP), since the Unit was still in MODE 1, and a total of only 32 hours was available to re-achieve DW/Torus Dp and reinert while remaining in MODE 1. While under this interpretation, the resulting available options during this drywell entry were to either: 1) re-establish DW/Torus Dp and inerting prior to reaching 15% RTP during the power ascension, or 2) to exit MODE 1 to reset the 24 hour clock (meaning to start power ascension from MODE 2). In this situation, the TS LCO Applicability is not clear, does not coincide with the Bases intent, and may be overly restrictive in that it uses the terms, "startup" and "shutdown.

The cause of the issue was Station personnel understanding and application of the subject TS as used in context under this this infrequent plant condition, differed from the NRC's understanding and application of the subject TS.

The specific difference is with the application of the term, "start-up," as used in the LCO Applicability.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. Given the impact on compliance with the Drywell/Suppression Chamber Differential Pressure, and Primary Containment Oxygen Concentration Technical Specifications, this report is submitted for Unit 2 in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), which requires the reporting of a past operation or condition which was prohibited by the plant Technical Specifications.

C. CAUSE OF EVENT

During the drywell entry and subsequent return to full power, the Station performed the power ascension under procedures, QCGP 3-1 (Reactor Power Operations) and QCOP 1600-20 (Nitrogen Inerting of Primary Containment Using the Vaporizer(s) and Reactor Building Ventilation System), for which under this infrequent plant condition, the context of "startup" was understood to refer to the "act of increasing reactor power," or "power ascension." Therefore, the apparent TS interpretation conflict occurred in the meaning and use of "startup," in the LCO Applicability, when during power ascension the Station proceeded above 15% RTP without resetting DW/Torus Dp and re-inerting within the 32 hour maximum allowed Completion Time.

This issue pertained to a reading of the language of the subject TS which in itself was not readily able to be consistently interpreted since the "plain language" did not match the TS Bases nor the NRC approved text of the Safety Evaluation (SE). This TS compliance interpretation issue occurred for only a 4 hour and 2 hour duration (in excess of the 32 hours total Completion Time allowed while in MODE 1), pertaining to the DW/Torus Dp and oxygen concentration, respectively.

D. SAFETY ANALYSIS

System Design TS Bases 3.6.2.5, Drywell-to-Suppression Chamber Differential Pressure Applicable Safety Analyses provides: "The purpose of maintaining the drywell at a slightly higher pressure with respect to the suppression chamber is to minimize the drywell pressure increase necessary to clear the downcomer pipes to commence condensation of steam in the suppression pool and to minimize the mass of the accelerated water leg. This reduces the hydrodynamic loads on the torus during the LOCA blowdown. The required differential pressure results in a downcomer waterleg of approximately 1 ft. Initial drywell-to-suppression chamber differential pressure affects both the dynamic pool loads on the suppression chamber and the peak drywell pressure during downcomer pipe clearing during a Design Basis Accident LOCA. Drywell-to suppression chamber differential pressure must be maintained within the specified limits so that the safety analysis remains valid.

TS Bases 3.6.3.1, Primary Containment Oxygen Concentration Applicable Safety Analyses provides: "The UFSAR, Section 6.2.5 calculations assume that the primary containment is inerted when a Design Basis Accident loss of coolant accident occurs. Thus, the hydrogen assumed to be released to the primary containment as a result of metal water reaction in the reactor core will not produce combustible gas mixtures in the primary containment. Oxygen, which is subsequently generated by radiolytic decomposition of water, will not result in the primary containment becoming de-inerted within the first 30 days following an accident.

Safety Impact TS Bases 3.6.2.5 Drywell-to-Suppression Chamber Differential Pressure LCO Applicability provides: "As long as reactor power is containment occurring within the first 24 hours following a startup or within the last 24 hours prior to a shutdown is low enough that these "windows," with the primary containment not inerted, are also justified. The 24 hour time period is a reasonable amount of time to allow plant personnel to perform inerting or de-inerting." For this event, since the period of time during which reactor power was > 15% RTP while the DW to Torus Dp was 18 hours, the probability of an event that generates hydrogen or excessive loads on primary containment was low since this duration was less than 24 hours, therefore, the safety impact of this condition was minimal.

TS Bases 3.6.3.1, Primary Containment Oxygen Concentration LCO Applicability provides: "As long as reactor power is containment need not be inert. Furthermore, the probability of an event that generates hydrogen occurring within the first 24 hours of a startup, or within the last 24 hours before a shutdown, is low enough that these "windows," when the primary containment is not inerted, are also justified. The 24 hour time period is a reasonable amount of time to allow plant personnel to perform inerting or de-inerting." For this event, since the period of time during which reactor power was > 15% RTP while the DW was not inerted (i.e., 02 concentration > 4%), was approximately 16 hours, the probability of an event that generates hydrogen was low since this duration was less than 24 hours, therefore, the safety impact of this condition was minimal.

Due to the language in the associated TS Bases and SE documentation for the actions that the Station took during the drywell entry and subsequent power ascension, this TS compliance interpretation issue is not a significant event/issue, since the interpreted non-compliance occurred for only a 4 hour and 2 hour duration, pertaining to the DW/Torus Dp and oxygen concentration, respectively (i.e., 4 hour/2 hour in excess of the 32 'hours total Completion Time allowed while in MODE 1). Furthermore, this event was the first known recorded occurrence of non-compliance with these TS under this interpretation. Since the condition created no consequences, the safety impact of this condition was minimal.

Risk Insights The plant Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA) model was reviewed with respect to this event. Core Damage Frequency (CDF) and Large Early Release Frequency (LERF) were evaluated for impacts of oxygen concentration and DW/Torus Dp. Since the period of time during which reactor power was > 15% RTP while the DW was not inerted (i.e., oxygen concentration > 4%), was approximately 16 hours, and since the period of time during which reactor power was > 15% RTP while the DW to Torus Dp was change in risk was minimal.

In conclusion, the overall safety significance and impact on risk of this event were minimal.

E. CORRECTIVE ACTIONS

Immediate:

1. Issued an Operations Standing Order that provided clarifying information when using the subject Tech Spec for drywell entries.

Follow-up:

2. The pertinent Operating procedures will be revised to ensure the subject Tech Specs are properly implemented for drywell entries.

3. This issue will be addressed under a proposed BWROG TSTF item for a potential future Tech Spec and Bases revision.

4. Operator Training will review this issue as an OPEX item, and for incorporation into appropriate lesson plans.

F. PREVIOUS OCCURRENCES

The Station events database, LERs, and INPO Consolidated Event System (ICES) were reviewed for similar events at the Quad Cities Nuclear Power Station. This event was caused by Station personnel understanding and application of the subject Tech Specs as used in context under this infrequent plant condition, differed from the NRC understanding and application of the subject Tech Specs. The specific difference is with the application of the term, "start-up," as used in the LCO Applicability.

  • No previous occurrences were identified as applicable to the circumstances of this event.

G. COMPONENT FAILURE DATA

Failed Equipment: N/A Component Manufacturer: N/A Component Model Number: N/A Component Part Number: N/A This event has not been reported to ICES since there was no equipment failure.

05000265/LER-2016-00225 April 2016
24 June 2016
10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident

Motor Operated (MO) HPCI Outboard Main Steam Isolation Valve (MO 2-2301-5). The packing leak was causing a two (2) foot steam plume to impinge on the valve limit switch compartment, potentially impacting the motor operator for the MO 2-2301-5 valve.

Due to the uncertainty on how the steam impingement would affect the valve limit switch compartment, Operations conservatively isolated the steam leak by closing the HPCI Inboard Main Steam Isolation Valve (MO 2-2301-4). With the steam supply isolated, HPCI was declared inoperable and Technical Specification (TS) 3.5.1 Condition G was entered.

The cause of the packing leak was a non-modern style packing installed in 2007 to repack valve MO 2-2301-5.

This packing material was susceptible to premature degradation.

Corrective actions included repacking the valve with modern packing and performance of valve diagnostic testing.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. Given the impact on the HPCI system, this report is submitted for Unit 2 in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 50.73 (a)(2)(v)(D), which requires the reporting of any event or condition that could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function of structures or systems that are needed to mitigate the consequences of an accident.

APPROVED BY OMB: NO. 3150-0104 EXPIRES: 10/31/2018 Reported lessons learned are incorporated into the licensing process and fed back to industry. Send comments regarding burden estimate to the FOIA, Privacy and Information Collections Branch (T-5 F53), U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001, or by Internet e-mail to Infocollects.Resource@nrc.gov, and to the Desk Officer, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, NEOB-10202, (3150-0104), Office of Management and Budget, Washington, DC 20503. If a means used to impose an information collection does not display a currently valid OMB control number, the NRC may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, the information collection.

05000265/LER-2016-00121 March 2016
19 May 2016
10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), Prohibited by Technical Specifications

On March 21, 2016, at 2200 hours, with Unit 2 shutdown for refuel outage Q2R23, the as-found local leak rate tests (LLRT) for the four (4) main steam lines (MSL) were performed following closure of the main steam isolation valves (MSIV). The initial as-found LLRT on the "A" and "C" MSL MSIVs exceeded the minimum pathway criteria (lesser leakage in a line) of the Technical Specifications (TS), and the combined total leakage of all MSLs also exceeded the minimum pathway criteria (lesser leakage in each line when combined for all MSIVs) of the TS.

Corrective actions included flushing, disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and retesting the valves. Future corrective actions include installation of an improved spherical nose plug design to the MSIV plug and seat, and installation of an anti-rotation device to the MSIV pilot.

Valves 2-0203-2A and 2-0203-1C were disassembled and inspected. The most likely cause for the higher than expected leakages has been determined to be a valve design that is susceptible to a degraded main plug / seat interface during valve closure. A contributing cause was susceptible pilot plug / seat misalignment, due to pilot disc stem nut wear.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. The total primary containment leakage of 315.866 scfh was well within the allowed leakage limit of 1372.99 scfh (La). However, since the "A", "B", "C" and "D" MSL MSIV as-found leakage exceeded the TS limit, and the combined total leakage of all MSLs exceeded the TS limit, this report is submitted in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), which requires the reporting of a past operation or condition which was prohibited by the plant Technical Specifications.

05000265/LER-2015-0015 March 201510 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident

On March 5, 2015, at approximately 1640, the watertight door for the Unit 1 High Pressure Coolant Injection (HPCI) room was found open with no person in attendance. In this condition, the door is not able to perform the flood protection function. With no person in attendance the door would not be shut to prevent internal flood water from entering the Unit 1 HPCI room. This condition would result in the inoperability of equipment in the room it is designed to protect from flooding.

The construction of the adjacent Unit 1 and Unit 2 HPCI rooms provides no flood barrier between the two rooms.

Therefore, a condition that results in flood protection being nonfunctional to one HPCI room also has an effect on the opposite Unit HPCI. The Unit 1 HPCI watertight door being found open, with no one in attendance, results in the unplanned inoperability of the Unit 2 HPCI, since the Unit 2 HPCI is required to be operable by Technical Specifications in Mode 1. The Unit 1 HPCI was not required to be operable since Unit 1 was in Mode 5. Therefore, this Licensee Event Report is being submitted in accordance with 10 CFR 50.73 (a)(2)(v)(D) for an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function.

05000265/LER-2014-004On November 4, 2014, the Unit 2 High Pressure Coolant Injection (HPCI) system was isolated to perform planned maintenance and surveillance activities. During performance of the HPCI Drain Pot Level Switch, Valve and Alarm Functional Verification, the Unit 2 HPCI Inlet Drain Pot Level Switch failed to reposition as designed. Failure of the level switch could allow an undetected buildup of water in the steam supply lines, which could result in the failure of the HPCI turbine. It was determined that this condition would have resulted in declaring the Unit 2 HPCI inoperable and a notification to the NRC was made. (ENS 50593) The Unit 2 HPCI Inlet Drain Pot Level Switch is used to detect a failure of the normal pathway of the HPCI steam line drains and opens an alternate pathway for condensate removal. Since this alarm was nonfunctional, the steam trap bypass valve was manually opened prior to the restoration of HPCI on November 5, 2014. Temporary procedures have been implemented to verify periodically that the HPCI inlet drain pot is clear of condensate and the steam trap bypass valve remains open. These actions will provide reasonable assurance that the HPCI steam supply line will be free from condensate to support the operability of HPCI.
05000265/LER-2014-0036 May 201410 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), Prohibited by Technical Specifications

On May 16, 2014, with Unit 2 at full power, a main condenser flow reversal was performed. During the flow reversal, anomalous indications were noted for the 2C condenser (COND) backpressure response. As a result of the slow response, RPS pressure switch (PS) 2-0503-B was declared inoperable. This pressure switch is one of the inputs into the Reactor Protection System (RPS) (JD) for the Turbine Condenser Vacuum-Low function. The isolation valve (RTV) for this pressure switch was found partially closed. The valve was opened and normal indication was restored.

During the review of this event, it was identified that the RPS pressure switch was inoperable since May 6, 2014. Unit 2 did not meet the required number of channels per TS 3.3.1.1, Function 10, Turbine Condenser Vacuum-Low, when transitioning to MODE 1 at 2252 on May 6, 2014, as required by TS 3.0.4, and did not take the actions required in the allowed outage time.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. Sufficient redundant condenser backpressure instrumentation was operable to maintain scram capability and the RPS safety function. This event is reportable as an operation or condition prohibited by plant Technical Specifications per 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B).

05000265/LER-2014-0022 April 201410 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(A), Completion of TS Shutdown

On April 2, 2014, at 1228 hours, a Fire Alarm System (FAS) alarm was received for the Unit 2 D heater bay area. Although entry into the room at the time identified only a steam leak, subsequently various spurious alarms and electrical system anomalies occurred.

At 1303 hours, Unit 2 was manually scrammed, the turbine was tripped, and the main steam isolation valves (MSIVs) were closed to ensure the steam leak was isolated. A fire was identified to have occurred in the D heater bay (an area of the plant containing the high pressure (final stage) D feedwater heaters, and several Unit 2 cable trays and risers). The fire was extinguished by the automatic wet pipe sprinkler fire suppression system.

At 1340 hours, due to the manual de-energizing of safety-related motor control center (MCC) 29-1 in the reactor building in response to notification that smoke had been observed, an ALERT level Emergency Action Level classification was declared as HA3 (fire in a vital area affecting safety system equipment). The emergency was terminated at 2132 hours.

The cause of the event was an existing cable flaw that was caused by cable routing that exceeded the required minimum static bend radius.

Corrective actions included repairing impacted cables, replacing the failed steam seal expansion joint, operating procedure revisions, and additional inspections/tests.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. Given the impact on multiple systems, this report is submitted in accordance with 10 CFR 50.73 (a)(2)(iv)(A) for manual or automatic actuation of any of the systems listed in paragraph (a)(2)(iv)(B); in accordance with 10 CFR 50.73 (a)(2)(v)(D) for an event that could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function of systems needed to mitigate the consequences of an accident; and in accordance with 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(A), for the completion of a nuclear plant shutdown required by the plant's Technical Specifications.

05000265/LER-2014-00131 March 201410 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(ii)(A), Seriously Degraded
10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(A), Completion of TS Shutdown

On March 31, 2014, at 1302 hours, an Inservice Inspection Program VT-2 examination of the Unit 2 Control Rod Drive (CRD) Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) ASME Class 2 piping and components was being performed. An apparent through-wall valve body leak of approximately two drops per minute was discovered on the 2-0305-101-18-27 CRD HCU Scram Insert Isolation Valve. This valve is subjected to full reactor pressure during normal service and during this inspection. This valve is the isolation valve to the reactor vessel CRD drive housing, and since it is the first isolation boundary off of the reactor vessel, it therefore cannot be isolated from the reactor coolant system to allow repairs. The valve was declared inoperable, Technical Specifications LCO 3.4.4 Condition C was entered, and the Unit was shutdown and depressurized to effect repairs.

On April 1, 2014, the 2-0305-101-18-27 valve was removed from the system and shipped for analysis. It was determined that the through wall leak that developed was the direct result of an inherent manufacturing defect that eventually propagated to the valve surface following years of pressure and temperature cycles that the system normally experiences.

Corrective actions included replacing the failed isolation valve and performing additional CRD system inspections. A root cause analysis was performed and no additional contributing factors were identified.

The safety significance of this event was minimal since the leakage rate was very small and full scram capability was maintained by the control rod. Due to the impact on the reactor coolant pressure boundary, this report is submitted in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(ii)(A), which requires the reporting of any event or condition that results in the condition of the nuclear power plant, including its principal safety barriers, being seriously degraded. Since a plant shutdown was completed as required by the plant Technical Specifications, this report is also submitted in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(A), which requires the reporting of the completion of any nuclear plant shutdown required by the plant's Technical Specifications.

05000265/LER-2012-00318 April 201210 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(iv)(A), System Actuation
10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), Prohibited by Technical Specifications

On April 18, 2012, at 1511 hrs, while at low power conditions after refueling outage Q2R21, an automatic reactor scram occurred on Unit 2 due to high reactor pressure. The pressure increase occurred during post-modification testing on the main generator automatic voltage regulator (AVR) which had been upgraded during refueling outage Q2R21. The testing included a generator load reject, which was in progress when the pressure transient occurred. There were no complications during the reactor scram and subsequent turbine trip, and all systems functioned as required. Operators performed required actions safely and in accordance with procedures and training.

The cause of the automatic scram was due to high reactor pressure created by the load rejection associated with the main generator voltage regulator testing, coincident with unresponsive opening demand of turbine control valves (TCVs) that impacted the turbine bypass valves (TBVs) ability to control reactor pressure. Since the digital electro hydraulic control (DEHC) system design lacked the required Intercept (IV) EHC shutoff valves, this resulted in low EHC pressure and caused the TCVs to be unresponsive. Unit 1 was unaffected by the event and remained at 100% power.

Corrective actions included evaluating the impact of the event on the operability of the TBVs, and applying a Minimum Critical Power Ratio (MCPR) Operating Penalty (TS 3.7.7) when reactor power is between 25% and 50%. Future corrective actions include development of a hardware/software modification to the DEHC system to correct the design deficiency.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. This event is reportable (Unit 2) per 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(iv)(A), which requires the reporting of any event or condition that resulted in manual or automatic actuation of the reactor protection system (RPS), including reactor scram; (Units 1 and 2) 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), which requires the reporting of any operation or condition which was prohibited by the plant's Technical Specifications; and (Units 1 and 2) 10 CFR 50.73 (a)(2)(v)(C), which requires the reporting of any event or condition that could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function of structures or systems needed to control the release of radioactive material.

05000265/LER-2012-0024 April 2012

On April 4, 2012, at 1716 hrs, while Unit 2 was shutdown for refueling outage Q2R21, leakage was identified exiting from a 2 inch reactor vessel instrumentation nozzle (N-11B) during a Reactor Pressure Vessel (RPV) pressure test. The leakage amount was approximately 60 drops per minute (dpm). The vessel penetration (N-11B) provides the connection point for the reference leg of the "B"-train of the Reactor Vessel Level Instrumentation System (RVLIS).

The leakage originated from the area where the nozzle penetrates the vessel wall. The nozzle is welded on the inside of the vessel, so the actual attachment weld could not be examined.

The RPV pressure test was stopped and the reactor vessel depressurized to allow additional inspections and necessary repairs.

The most probable cause of the leakage was determined to be lntergranular Stress Corrosion Cracking (IGSCC) that was likely influenced by higher residual stresses that remained in the nozzle assembly following nozzle replacement in 1970, prior to the initial start-up of Unit 2.

Corrective actions included repairing the nozzle with IGSCC resistant material, and obtaining approval of a Relief Request from the NRC prior to startup to allow the flaw to remain for one operating cycle. Future corrective actions include inspecting other similar RPV nozzles, and performing a specialized flaw evaluation to support safe operation for continued operating cycles.

The safety significance of this event was minimal given the leakage was very small, was found while the reactor was shutdown, and if leaked during plant operation, did not exceed Technical Specification (TS) leakage limits for unidentified drywell leakage.

Given the impact on the reactor vessel pressure boundary, this report is submitted in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 50.73 (a)(2)(ii)(A), which requires the reporting of any event or condition that resulted in the condition of the nuclear power plant, including its principal safety barriers, being seriously degraded.

05000265/LER-2011-00112 January 201110 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident

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On January 12, 2011, at 1020 hours, the Unit 2 Essential Service (ESS) 480V Bus 29 (BU) was inadvertently de-energized. The cause of this bus trip was due to inadvertent contact with the bus feed breaker local trip pushbutton (JS) by a station employee during unrelated work activities in the bus feed breaker area. While Bus 29 was de-energized, Division II core and containment cooling systems (BO) were unavailable and inoperable; however, normal power to Bus 29 was restored within 6 minutes.

The plant responded as designed to the loss of Bus 29, with the exception that the normally supplied reactor building ESS 480V Bus Motor Control Center (MCC) 28/29-5 did not receive the auto transfer of supplied power from its reserve feed 480V Bus 28.

Since either 480V Bus 29 or Bus 28 can feed Bus 28/29-5, this condition resulted in a loss of power to Bus 28/29-5 and rendered both divisions of the Low Pressure Coolant Injection (LPCI) (BO) mode of the Residual Heat Removal (RHR) (BO) system inoperable. Therefore, Technical Specification 3.5.1.E was entered, requiring restoration of LPCI within 72 hours.

It was subsequently determined that the "M" auxiliary contactor (CNTR) from Bus 29 had failed which caused the auto transfer logic from Bus 29 to Bus 28 to fail.

Bus 28/29-5 was manually reenergized from Bus 28 at 1213 hours; however, LPCI remained inoperable pending investigations.

Restoration of Bus 28/29-5 auto-transfer function occurred at 2151 hours, allowing LPCI to be returned to operable status and TS 3.5.1.E to be exited.

This report is submitted in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(v)(D), which requires the reporting of any event or condition that could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function of structures or systems that are needed to mitigate the consequences of an accident.

05000265/LER-2010-00110 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), Prohibited by Technical Specifications

During Startup of Unit 2 from refueling outage Q2R20, anomalous condenser (CDU) backpressure indications were noted by the control room staff. While investigation into the indication issue was in progress the operators placed the Unit into Mode 1.

Approximately 12 hours later the anomalous indication was determined to be caused by a partially closed isolation valve (ISV) which isolates the turbine (TRB) condenser low vacuum pressure switch (PS) which inputs into the Reactor Protection System (RPS) (JD). The valve was subsequently re-opened. This pressure switch is required to be operable in Mode 1 by plant Technical Specifications (TS). Since the pressure switch was determined to be inoperable, the Unit had entered Mode 1 without meeting TS 3.0.4 for the required minimum number of operable channels per TS 3.3.1.1, Function 10.

The apparent cause of this event was failure of the Station to place sufficient importance on the anomalous Control Room indications. Contributing to the cause was the improperly positioned isolation valve that was potentially caused by personnel inadvertently bumping the isolation valve during outage activities. Condenser pressure plots during shutdown prior to the outage indicated pressure channels were tracking uniformly, however upon outage completion, the startup condenser pressure plots indicated anomalous readings, therefore the isolation valve had been inadvertently repositioned during the outage. Corrective actions include procedure changes to require investigations into abnormal plant indications to verify there are no impacts on TS required equipment prior to entering Modes 1 and 2, and reviews of work practices and configuration controls associated with instrument isolation valves in high traffic areas.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. Although the required instrument was not operable for a short period of time, sufficient redundant condenser backpressure instrumentation was operable to maintain scram capability. This event is therefore, a past operation or condition which was prohibited by the plant Technical Specifications, and is therefore reportable per 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B).

05000265/LER-2004-00210 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(ii)(A), Seriously Degraded

On March 9, 2004, during a refueling outage on Unit 2, axial flaws were detected during a scheduled Inservice Inspection (ISI) of a recirculation system weld (02B- S7). Although the axial indications could not be fully characterized using qualified Performance Demonstration Initiative inspection techniques, the flaw sizes were estimated to be approximately 0.35 and 0.25 inches long and approximately 0.39 inches deep (not through-wall).

The axially oriented intergranular stress corrosion cracking (IGSCC) flaws were most likely detected as a result of the decontamination process increasing the reflectivity of the pre-existing flaws. IGSCC mitigation efforts such as hydrogen water chemistry, noble metals chemical addition and mechanical stress improvement process had previously been applied to this weld, and the probability that cracking occurred following these mitigation efforts is low. It is most likely that the flaws were present but not previously detected.

An overlay was applied to weld 02B-S7 in accordance with industry guidance, and the other four Unit 2 Category D welds were inspected with no additional flaws identified.

05000265/LER-2004-00118 January 200410 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(v)(C), Loss of Safety Function - Release of Radioactive Material

On January 28, 2004, it was determined during troubleshooting that a wire on the selector switch for the Unit 2 "A" drywell (DW) radiation monitor was crimped back on itself at a connection point but was not soldered. This instrument provides post-accident indication as well as an isolation of Primary Containment (Group II isolation) in response to high radiation levels in the drywell. The troubleshooting was being performed in response to a drop in the indicated value on January 18, 2004, from 3R/hr to 1R/hr.

It was determined that the chassis was manufactured with an unsoldered switch connection, and that this connection made intermittent contact. In the event of a gross failure of the fuel cladding, the discontinuity may have prevented a containment isolation initiation during a DW high radiation condition. However, high DW pressure and low reactor water level instrumentation would have initiated a Group II isolation in the event of a break in the reactor coolant pressure boundary inside containment.

The DW radiation monitors on Unit 1 and Unit 2 were checked and no additional loose or unsoldered connections were identified.

NRC FORM 3 6 6A ( 7 -2 0 01)

05000265/LER-2003-004

was shut down to allow inspection and repair of the steam dryer. On June 12, 2003, inspections identified cracking in the steam dryer. Failure analysis and repairs to the Unit 2 dryer were completed over the following 18 days and the reactor was returned to service.

The root cause of the failure of the steam dryer has been determined to be the high cycle fatigue cracking caused by the increased vibration loadings created by high steam velocities.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. The dryer is a non-safety related component whose only safety function is to remain intact such that it will not prevent a safety related component from performing its function. At the time of discovery, all dryer components remained constrained within the dryer/separator envelope.

This report is being submitted as a voluntary report.

05000265/LER-2003-00310 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), Prohibited by Technical Specifications

On June 20, 2003, a differential pressure instrument isolation valve was found isolated, rendering the instrument inoperable. The other three differential pressure switches that provide the one-out-of-two-twice logic to direct injection of the Low Pressure Coolant Injection system to the intact reactor recirculation pipe during a loss of coolant event were verified to be operable. The surveillance in progress was completed, the switch was tested satisfactorily and the manifold valves were returned to the in-service position.

A work history review identified that the valve was left closed following a March 24, 2003, surveillance. A search of the work history involving the individuals that performed the March 24, 2003, surveillance did not identify any discrepancies.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. The remaining three switches were operable and capable of providing the required logic signal. Therefore, there was no loss of safety function associated with this event.

The root cause for this event is a breakdown in the use of human performance tools.

Corrective actions include a revision to Human Performance training and development of a human performance improvement program for the Instrument Maintenance Department.

05000265/LER-2003-002

On April 16, 2003, at 1322 hours, the Unit 2 3B Main Steam Relief Valve (RV) self- actuated. The operators initiated the appropriate procedures for an open RV, including initiation of suppression pool cooling, a manual reactor scram, removal of the control power fuses to the 3B RV, and closure of the main steam isolation valves to slow the reactor cooldown rate. At 1359 hours, the suppression pool temperature reached 110F and an Alert was declared in accordance with the Exelon Emergency Plan.

The Alert was exited at 2251 hours.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. The opening of the 3B RV did not affect the capability of the relief valves to protect against high reactor pressure.

At the time of the event, the M Emergency Diesel Generator was out of service for planned maintenance. All other mitigating systems were available. Therefore, both emergency and non-emergency sources of injection to the vessel were available to make up for the coolant being relieved through the RV to the suppression pool.

The root cause was excessive leakage past the 3B RV pilot valve seat, which allowed the RV closure force to diminish and the RV to open. Corrective actions included replacement of the 3B RV, improvements in RV tailpipe temperature monitoring, and removal of the requirement to perform on-line test actuations of the RV.

05000265/LER-2003-00110 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), Prohibited by Technical Specifications

On January 9, 2003, at 0540 hours, with Unit 2 in Mode 1 at 100's power, a Residual Heat Removal (RHR) injection valve failed to stay open during a valve test. It was determined that a containment isolation signal for that valve was sealed in. The isolation signal was reset and the valve was satisfactorily tested. The isolation signal for the injection valve in the other Unit 2 RHR loop was also found sealed in, and was reset. The 'seal in' condition for these relays is not annunciated nor are there any other secondary indications available for monitoring this portion of the RHR logic.

The root cause of the event was inadequate procedural development and review. A revision made to a logic test procedure in 1999 failed to ensure that the isolation signal was reset at the end of the test. The logic test had last been performed on December 18, 2002. Corrective actions included revising the procedure to verify that the isolation signal has been reset.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. Although the injection valves would not operate automatically, the isolation signal could be reset from the control room. Also, the Core Spray system was operable and capable of post-accident low pressure injection.

05000265/LER-2002-00510 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(v)(B), Loss of Safety Function - Remove Residual Heat
10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), Prohibited by Technical Specifications

On October 7, 2002, at 1044 hours, a detached wire was found in a panel in the auxiliary equipment room as the result of a logic test failure. With the wire detached, one division of the Low Pressure Coolant Injection (LPCI) system would not have automatically started, and the flow from the other division may have been diverted from the reactor vessel. All pumps and valves could have been operated manually from the control room control panels and plant operators would have been able to restore required flow to the vessel.

The detached wire was determined to be due to poor installation of the wiring and a lack of formal expectations concerning the inspection of equipment disturbed during work activities. Corrective actions include attaching the wire correctly and establishing and implementing expectations concerning the performance of inspections for electrical components and equipment following work activities.

05000265/LER-2002-003

On July 11, 2002, at 0241 hours, Unit 2 plant personnel conservatively initiated a shutdown using Technical Specification (TS) Section 3.0.3. The reactor entered the shutdown mode (Mode 3) at 1417 hours. An operability assessment had previously been performed in response to indications of a damaged reactor steam dryer (initial indications started on June 7, 2002). TS 3.0.3 was conservatively entered when those indications changed such that, based on the analysis of the changed indications, reasonable assurance of continued operability of connected safety systems could no longer be supported. Following the unit shutdown, an inspection of the Unit 2 Reactor internals on July 13, 2002, revealed that a Steam Dryer cover plate had failed.

Fragments were found in a Main Steam line and a Main Turbine stop valve inlet screen.

The root cause of the steam dryer failure was determined to be a lack of industry experience and knowledge of flow-induced vibration dryer failures. The dryer failed as a result of fatigue caused by flow-induced vibrations created by higher steam flows due to Extended Power Uprate conditions.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. Subsequent reviews determined all of the Unit 2 safety systems would have responded as designed had a design basis event occurred and that the entry into TS 3.0.3 was not a required entry. Therefore, this report is submitted as a voluntary report.

Corrective actions include repair to the Unit 2 steam dryer and further evaluation of resonant frequency issues.

05000265/LER-2002-00210 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(iv)(A), System Actuation

On April 5, 2002, at 1028 hours, a manual scram was inserted on Unit 2 in response to increasing reactor level. The increase in reactor level was due to a blown fuse in the Digital Feedwater Level Control (DFWLC) system, caused by the inadvertent grounding of test leads during an instrument surveillance. Although the DFWLC logic is intended to be able to respond to a blown fuse without causing a level transient, the indicating fuse holder provided a circuit that inhibited recognition of the blown fuse by the DFWLC logic.

The root cause of the Unit 2 reactor scram was a design deficiency involving the installation of indicating fuse holders. The inadvertent grounding of the test leads was a contributing cause. Also, although the operator actions were in accordance with procedure, different actions may have mitigated this event.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. Adequate makeup to the vessel was available at all times from the feedwater system, as well as from the ECCS systems.

Corrective actions include removal of the indicating fuse holders, actions to minimize the potential for grounding test leads, and review of the default operator actions for a level transient.

05000265/LER-2002-00110 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B), Prohibited by Technical Specifications

On March 4, 2002, at 1255 hours during a reactor startup, Unit 2 reactor pressure was increased above 150 psig with the High Pressure Coolant Injection turbine uncoupled from the pump. This put the unit in Technical Specification (TS) 3.5.1, condition F. This is a violation of TS 3.0.4, which does not allow entry into a specified condition of applicability while a Limiting Condition for Operation is not met. HPCI was subsequently recoupled.

The root cause of this event was that licensed personnel misapplied TS 3.5.1. As a contributing cause, the reactor startup procedural guidance was inadequate to ensure operable status of TS-required equipment when non-Mode conditions of applicability were entered.

Corrective actions include changes to the reactor startup procedure and training concerning application of TS.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. Reactor pressure did not get above approximately 160 psig until HPCI was recoupled, and the Reactor Core Isolation Cooling and Automatic Depressurization systems, as well as the low- pressure Emergency Core Cooling systems, were available throughout the event.

NRC FORM 3 6 6A ( 7 - 2 001)

05000265/LER-2001-00110 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(iv)(A), System Actuation

On August 2, 2001, at 0813 hours, lightning struck a 345 kV line that connected to the Quad Cities switchyard. This resulted in failure of the Unit 2 Main Power Transformer (MPT), an automatic reactor scram on Unit 2 and loss of normal offsite power to Unit 2. An Unusual Event was declared, the Unit 2 and 1/2 Emergency Diesel Generators started, and the Reactor Core Isolation Cooling system and the Safe Shutdown Makeup Pump were manually started to maintain reactor vessel level. The MPT fire was extinguished at 0845 hours and normal offsite power was restored to Unit 2 at 1047 hours.

The safety significance of this event was minimal. All safety systems operated as designed to shut the Unit 2 reactor down and maintain it in a safe shutdown condition. Offsite power was available to Unit 2 from the Unit 1 Reserve Auxiliary Transformer through the emergency bus crosstie throughout the event.

The root cause of the MPT failure was mechanical failure of the bus bar clamps due to original equipment manufacturer design and construction errors. The root cause of the loss of normal offsite power was age degradation in a Static Breaker Failure (SBF) relay.

The SBF relay was replaced and the preventive maintenance program has been upgraded concerning local breaker backup schemes. The MPT Specification Development Lessons Learned Review Checklist has been upgraded and a comprehensive transformer monitoring strategy will be implemented.

NRC FORM 3 6 6A (7-2 0 01 ) ���

05000265/LER-1999-002, Forwards LER 99-002-00 for Quad Cities Nuclear Power Station IAW Requirements of 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(i)(B).Util Commits to One Listed Action25 June 1999
05000265/LER-1999-001, Forwards LER 99-001-00,IAW 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(iv).Commitments Made by Util Are Listed15 March 1999
05000265/LER-1998-006, Forwards LER 98-006-00,IAW 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(v)(B). Commitments Made by Util Are Listed15 October 1998
05000265/LER-1998-005, Forwards LER 98-005-00,per 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(vii)B. Commitments Made by Util,Listed28 August 1998
05000265/LER-1998-003, Forwards LER 98-003-00,submitted IAW 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(iv). Commitments Made within Ltr Listed27 July 1998
05000265/LER-1998-002, Forwards LER 98-002-00,IAW 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(i)(B). Commitments Made within Ltr,Listed24 June 1998
05000265/LER-1998-001, Forwards LER 98-001-00 Per 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(i)(B).Listed Commitments Made by Ltr17 March 1998
05000265/LER-1997-015, Informs NRC of Change to Committed Due Date Contained in Ltr Re LER 97-01518 March 1998
05000265/LER-1997-012, Informs of Change of Committed Due Date Re Rev to Procedure Contained in LER 97-012,dtd 971218.Due Date Is Now 980828 Due to Work Prioritization & Backlog for Resources for Completion of Engineering Request20 March 1998
05000265/LER-1997-010, Forwards LER 97-010-00 IAW Requirements of 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(i)(B).No Commitments Made12 September 1997
05000265/LER-1997-008, Forwards LER 97-008-00 IAW Requirements of 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(i)(B).Commitments Made by Ltr,Listed28 July 1997
05000265/LER-1997-006, Forwards LER 97-006-00 Re Cable in Unit 2 Being in Same Fire Area as Fire of Concern Due to Ineffective Implementation of Original Safe Shutdown Analysis.List of Commitments Provided27 August 1997
05000265/LER-1997-005, Forwards LER 97-005-01 Re Unit 2 Reactor Placed in Mode 2 W/O Required Number of Emergency Diesel Generators Operable. Commitment Listed23 October 1997
05000265/LER-1997-004, Forwards LER 97-004-00,IAW 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(ii)(B).Unit 1 DWEDS & DWFDS Will Be Examined to Verify Video Tape Determination During Next Refueling Shutdown to Ensure Covers on Unit Installed Per Applicable Design Drawings30 May 1997
05000265/LER-1997-003, Forwards LER 97-003-01 Re Core Spray Room Cooler 2B That Fouled Due to Hydrolyzing Debris.Commitment Listed24 October 1997
05000265/LER-1997-002, Forwards LER 97-002-01 Which Identifies Addl Discrepancy in LER 97-002-00.Quad Cities Nuclear Power Station Unit 2 Shutdown 022897 Also Required Because of Loss of Primary Containment Integrity18 November 1997
05000265/LER-1997-001, Forwards LER 97-001-01 for Quad Cities Nuclear Power Station,Iaw 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(v)(D).Commitments Made by Util, Listed17 July 1997
05000265/LER-1996-003, Forwards LER 96-003-00 Submitted IAW Requirements of 10CFR50.73(a)(2)(v)(D).Commitments Made by Ltr,Submitted10 December 1996
05000265/LER-1996-002, Forwards LER 96-002-00.Licensee Revised Qcop 2300-1 to Ensure That Piping Downstream of Sys Isolation Valve Is Filled & Vented After Maint4 November 1996
05000265/LER-1996-001, Forwards LER 96-001-00.Listed Commitments Made,Including Event Will Be Included as Part of Continuing Training for Both Licensed Operators & Engineering Dept19 June 1996
05000265/LER-1995-006, Forwards LER 95-006-00 Re Feed Breaker for Motor Control at Switchgear Tripped from Current Overload2 November 1995
05000265/LER-1995-004, Forwards LER 95-004-01 Re Condenser Vacuum Scram Switches Found Out of TS Limits Due to Apparent Setpoint Drift20 November 1995
05000265/LER-1995-003, Forwards LER 95-003 Re Shutdown Cooling Not Being Available31 July 1995
05000265/LER-1995-001, Informs of Commitments Being Made by Ltr Re Suppl Info Concerning LER 95-00129 March 1995
05000265/LER-1994-010, Forwards LER 94-010 Re Unplanned Scram from Position 48 to 00 During Instrument Maint Surveillance8 August 1995
05000265/LER-1994-008, Informs of Commitments Being Made Re LER 94-008,rev 016 May 1994