IR 05000255/2014008: Difference between revisions
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| issue date = 12/02/2014 | | issue date = 12/02/2014 | ||
| title = IR 05000255-14-008, 9/8/2014 - 11/4/2014, Palisades Nuclear Plant Component Design Bases Inspection (CDBI) | | title = IR 05000255-14-008, 9/8/2014 - 11/4/2014, Palisades Nuclear Plant Component Design Bases Inspection (CDBI) | ||
| author name = Stone A | | author name = Stone A | ||
| author affiliation = NRC/RGN-III/DRS/EB2 | | author affiliation = NRC/RGN-III/DRS/EB2 | ||
| addressee name = Vitale A | | addressee name = Vitale A | ||
| addressee affiliation = Entergy Nuclear Operations, Inc | | addressee affiliation = Entergy Nuclear Operations, Inc | ||
| docket = 05000255 | | docket = 05000255 | ||
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=Text= | =Text= | ||
{{#Wiki_filter: | {{#Wiki_filter:UNITED STATES mber 2, 2014 | ||
==SUBJECT:== | |||
PALISADES NUCLEAR PLANT COMPONENT DESIGN BASES INSPECTION 05000255/2014008 | |||
==Dear Mr. Vitale:== | |||
On November 4, 2014, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) completed a Component Design Bases Inspection (CDBI) inspection at your Palisades Nuclear Plant. | |||
The enclosed report documents the results of this inspection, which were discussed on November 4, 2014, with you, and other members of your staff. | |||
Based on the results of this inspection, ten NRC-identified findings of very low safety significance were identified. The findings involved violations of NRC requirements. However, because of their very low safety significance, and because the issues were entered into your Corrective Action Program, the NRC is treating the issues as Non-Cited Violations (NCVs) | |||
in accordance with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. Additionally, one licensee-identified violation is listed in Section 4OA7 of this report. | |||
If you contest the subject or severity of these NCVs, you should provide a response within 30 days of the date of this inspection report, with the basis for your denial, to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, ATTN: Document Control Desk, Washington, DC 20555-0001, with a copy to the Regional Administrator, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission - Region III, 2443 Warrenville Road, Suite 210, Lisle, IL 60532-4352; the Director, Office of Enforcement, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; and the Resident Inspector Office at the Palisades Nuclear Plant. In addition, if you disagree with the cross-cutting aspect assigned to any finding in this report, you should provide a response within 30 days of the date of this inspection report, with the basis for your disagreement, to the Regional Administrator, Region III, and the NRC Resident Inspector at the Palisades Nuclear Plant. In accordance with Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) "Rules of Practice," a copy of this letter and its enclosure a copy of this letter, its enclosure, and your response (if any), will be available electronically for public inspection in the NRC Public Document Room or from the Publicly Available Records System (PARS) component of NRC's Agencywide Documents Access and Management System (ADAMS), accessible from the NRC Web site at http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/adams.html (the Public Electronic Reading Room). | |||
Sincerely,/RA/ | Sincerely, | ||
Ann Marie Stone, Chief Engineering Branch 2 Division of Reactor Safety Docket No. 50-255 License No. DPR-20 | /RA/ | ||
Ann Marie Stone, Chief Engineering Branch 2 Division of Reactor Safety Docket No. 50-255 License No. DPR-20 | |||
===Enclosure:=== | ===Enclosure:=== | ||
Inspection Report 05000255/2014008 | Inspection Report 05000255/2014008 w/Attachment: Supplemental Information | ||
REGION III== | |||
Docket No: 50-255 License No: DPR-20 Report No: 05000255/2014008 Licensee: Entergy Nuclear Operations, Inc. | |||
Facility: Palisades Nuclear Plant Location: Covert, MI Dates: September 8, 2014 through November 4, 2014 Inspectors: S. Sheldon, Senior Engineering Inspector, Lead J. Corujo-Sandin, Engineering Inspector, Mechanical C. Brown, Engineering Inspector, Electrical C. Zoia, Operations Engineer L. Rodriguez, Engineering Inspector, Observer H. Leake, Electrical Contractor C. Baron, Mechanical Contractor Approved by: Ann Marie Stone, Chief Engineering Branch 2 Division of Reactor Safety Enclosure | |||
=SUMMARY OF FINDINGS= | =SUMMARY OF FINDINGS= | ||
Inspection Report 05000255/2014008, 9/8/2014 - 11/4/2014, Palisades Nuclear Plant | Inspection Report 05000255/2014008, 9/8/2014 - 11/4/2014, Palisades Nuclear Plant | ||
=== | Component Design Bases Inspection (CDBI). | ||
The inspection was a 3-week onsite baseline inspection that focused on the design of components. The inspection was conducted by regional engineering inspectors and two consultants. Ten Green findings were identified by the inspectors. The findings were considered Non-Cited Violations (NCVs) of NRC regulations. The significance of inspection findings is indicated by their color (i.e., greater than Green, or Green, White, Yellow, Red)and determined using IMC 0609, Significance Determination Process dated June 2, 2011. | |||
Cross-cutting aspects are determined using IMC 0310, Aspects Within the Cross-Cutting Areas effective date January 1, 2014. All violations of NRC requirements are dispositioned in accordance with the NRCs Enforcement Policy dated July 9, 2013. The NRC's program for overseeing the safe operation of commercial nuclear power reactors is described in NUREG-1649, Reactor Oversight Process Revision 5, dated February 2014. | |||
===NRC-Identified and Self-Revealing Findings=== | |||
===Cornerstone: Initiating Events=== | ===Cornerstone: Initiating Events=== | ||
: '''Green.''' | : '''Green.''' | ||
The inspectors identified a finding having very low safety significance and an associated Non-Cited Violation (NCV) of 10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3), | The inspectors identified a finding having very low safety significance and an associated Non-Cited Violation (NCV) of 10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3), Surveillance Requirements, for the failure to ensure the channel time delay for the degraded-voltage monitor was included in Technical Specification (TS) Surveillance Requirement (SR)3.3.5.2.a. Specifically, the licensee failed to include in the TS SR the required time delay after the voltage relay trips before the preferred source of power is isolated and 1E electrical loads transferred to the stand-by Emergency Diesel Generators (EDGs). This finding was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program and the licensees preliminary verification determined the degraded voltage monitors were still operable but degraded or non-conforming. | ||
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because if left uncorrected, it would have the potential to lead to more significant safety concern. | |||
Specifically, by not incorporating the total time delay requirements into the Technical Specifications, (TS) the time could be changed without going through the TS change process, possibly leading to spurious trips of offsite power sources or possibly exceeding the accident analysis time is the FSAR. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because it did not cause a reactor trip and the loss of mitigation equipment relied upon to transition the plant from the onset of the trip to a stable shutdown condition. The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding because the finding was not representative of the licensees present performance. (Section 1R21.3.b(9)) | |||
===Cornerstone: Mitigating Systems=== | ===Cornerstone: Mitigating Systems=== | ||
: '''Green.''' | : '''Green.''' | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control for the failure to ensure the safety-related Engineered Safeguard Systems trains would not be adversely affected by air entrainment when aligned to the Safety Injection and Refueling Water (SIRW) Tank. Specifically, calculation EA-C-PAL-0877D, assumed incorrectly only one train of the Engineered Safeguards System (ESS) was in operation when evaluating if the SIRW Tank reaches the limit for critical submergence during a tank drawdown. As part of their corrective actions, the licensee re-evaluated the scenarios of concern, performed an operability evaluation, and implemented compensatory actions. | ||
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Equipment Performance attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, air entrainment into the ESS systems could potentially impact the operability of the system by air binding the pumps, reduce discharge flow, discharge pressure and/or delay injection. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because the finding was a deficiency affecting the design or qualification of a mitigating structure system or component (SSC) but the SSC maintained its operability. The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding because the finding was not representative of the licensees present performance. | |||
(Section 1R21.3.b(1)) | |||
: '''Green.''' | : '''Green.''' | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, for the licensees failure to ensure the incoming feeder cables from startup transformer 1-2 to 2400 V safety-related Buses 1C and 1D were sized in accordance with their design basis, as described in Palisades FSAR Section 8.5.2. Specifically, the licensee failed to ensure the ampacity of the cables was at least as high as their maximum steady-state current. The licensee entered this finding into their Correction Action Program and verified the operability of the cables. | ||
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, cables were undersized with respect to the loading that would automatically occur as the result of a design basis accident. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality. This finding had a crosscutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Design Margin component, because the licensee did not ensure that equipment is operated and maintained within design margins, and margins are carefully guarded and changed only through a systematic and rigorous process. [H.6] | |||
(Section 1R21.3.b(2)) | |||
: '''Green.''' | : '''Green.''' | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, for the licensees failure to ensure electric motors are sized in accordance with the design basis, as discussed in Palisades FSAR Section 6.2.3.1. Specifically, the horsepower ratings of certain motors are less than power demands of their driven equipment, and they were not analyzed to ensure overheating would not occur. The licensee entered this finding into their Correction Action Program with a recommended action to analyze the effect of the condition, and has verified the operability of the motors. | ||
This performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, motors serving loads with power demands in excess of the motor horsepower ratings were not analyzed to ensure that motor damage would not occur. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green)because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality. This finding had a crosscutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Design Margin component, because the licensee failed to ensure that equipment is operated within design margins, and margins are carefully guarded and changed only through a systematic and rigorous process. [H.6] (Section 1R21.3.b(3)) | |||
: '''Green.''' | : '''Green.''' | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, for the licensees failure to ensure that voltages on the 480V system do not exceed equipment ratings. | ||
Specifically, the licensee increased the output voltage of the supply transformers to the 480V safety-related buses by 2.5 percent, but failed to ensure the resulting voltages would not exceed equipment ratings when the system is powered from the station power transformer or emergency diesel generator. The licensee entered this finding into their Correction Action Program and verified the operability of the affected equipment. | |||
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, the licensee failed to verify or check the voltage increase on the 480V system to ensure the maximum allowable voltage would not exceed equipment ratings. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green)because the affected SSCs maintained their operability and functionality. The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding, because the finding was not representative of the licensees present performance. (Section 1R21.3.b(4)) | |||
: '''Green.''' | : '''Green.''' | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of Technical Specifications 5.5.7, "Inservice Testing Program," for the failure to perform comprehensive pump testing of Containment Spray Pump P-54A in accordance with the code of record. Specifically, the licensee did not rerun a comprehensive pump test, as required by the | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of Technical Specifications 5.5.7, "Inservice Testing Program," for the failure to perform comprehensive pump testing of Containment Spray Pump P-54A in accordance with the code of record. Specifically, the licensee did not rerun a comprehensive pump test, as required by the codes ISTB-6300 Systematic Error section. As part of their corrective actions, the licensee entered the issue into the Corrective Action Program, and determined the component remained operable. | ||
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Equipment Performance attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, failing to perform testing as required could result in the degradation of the equipment being undetected. The finding screened as having very low safety significance because the finding was a deficiency affecting the design or qualification of a mitigating structure system or component (SSC) but the SSC maintained its operability. The findings had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of Problem Identification and Resolution, Evaluation, because the licensee failed to thoroughly evaluate the issue to ensure that resolutions address causes and extents of conditions commensurate with their safety significance. [P.2] (Section 1R21.3.b(5)) | |||
: '''Green.''' | : '''Green.''' | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, for the licensees failure to have adequate acceptance criteria in the emergency diesel generator surveillance procedures. Specifically, the licensee failed to ensure the surveillance test procedures for the emergency diesel generator largest load rejection test bounded the power demand of the largest load, as required by Technical Specification SR 3.8.1.5. The licensee entered this finding into their Correction Action Program and verified the operability of the emergency diesel generators. | ||
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, because it impacted the Procedure Quality attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective of ensuring the availability, reliability, and capability of systems to respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. | |||
Specifically, the surveillance procedure error could result in acceptance of test results that did not satisfy Technical Specification SR 3.8.1.5 for rejection of a load greater than or equal to the emergency diesel generators single largest predicted post-accident load. | |||
The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality. This finding had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Resources component, because the licensee failed to ensure that personnel, equipment, procedures, and other resources are adequate to assure nuclear safety by maintaining long term plant safety. | |||
[H.1] (Section 4OA2.1.b(1)) | |||
===Cornerstone: Barrier Integrity=== | ===Cornerstone: Barrier Integrity=== | ||
: '''Green.''' | : '''Green.''' | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, for the licensees failure to correctly translate design valve leakage limits into the applicable test procedure. Specifically, the acceptance criterion for emergency core cooling system (ECCS)/containment spray (CS) recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056 had not been correctly adjusted to account for the higher differential pressure associated with ECCS operation under post-accident conditions. The licensee entered this finding into their Corrective Action Program to correct the valve leakage limit. | ||
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone and adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events. Specifically, leakage approaching the procedural values would exceed analyzed dose calculations. | |||
The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment. The inspectors determined this finding did not have an associated cross-cutting aspect because it was not representative of present performance. (Section 1R21.3.b(6)) | |||
: '''Green.''' | : '''Green.''' | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, Control of Purchased Material, Equipment, and Services, for the licensees failure to identify non-safety-related sub-components improperly supplied with safety-related valves. Specifically, ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056, which were installed in 2007, were supplied with non-safety-related sub-components. These components were identified as non-safety-related on the vendor drawings. In addition, the licensee later installed a section of non-safety-related tubing on valve CV-3027 based on the incorrect vendor drawing. The licensee entered this finding into their Corrective Action Program to correct the valve drawings and replace the non-safety-related parts. | ||
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone and adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events. Specifically, the licensee failed to identify non-safety-related sub-components improperly supplied with safety-related valves which would form part of the containment barrier under post-accident conditions. The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment. | |||
The inspectors determined this finding did not have an associated cross-cutting aspect because it was not representative of the licensees present performance. | |||
(Section 1R21.3.b(7)) | |||
: '''Green.''' | : '''Green.''' | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, for the licensees failure to establish an adequate test program for the Shutdown Cooling (SDC) Heat Exchangers (HXs) to demonstrate they can perform as designed. Specifically, the licensee failed to take actions to ensure the SDC HXs heat transfer capability met its design bases, as assumed in design bases calculations. | ||
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone and adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events. Specifically, the licensee failed to verify the SDC HXs heat transfer capability met their design bases, as assumed in design bases calculations, to limit containment temperatures and pressures during an event. The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment. | |||
The inspectors determined this finding had an associated cross-cutting aspect, | |||
Conservative Bias, in the Human Performance cross-cutting area. Specifically, on several occasions when the licensee identified the need to perform testing and/or inspection of the SDC HXs, the licensee did not take actions because they did not believe any regulatory requirements or technical issues existed that required the testing and/or inspections. | |||
[H.14] (Section 1R21.3.b(8)) | |||
===Licensee-Identified Violations=== | |||
Violations of very low safety or security significance or Severity Level IV that were identified by the licensee have been reviewed by the NRC. Corrective actions taken or planned by the licensee have been entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program (CAP). These violations and CAP tracking numbers are listed in Section 4OA7 of this report. | |||
=REPORT DETAILS= | =REPORT DETAILS= | ||
Line 78: | Line 134: | ||
==REACTOR SAFETY== | ==REACTOR SAFETY== | ||
===Cornerstone: | ===Cornerstone: Initiating Events, Mitigating Systems, and Barrier Integrity=== | ||
Initiating Events, Mitigating Systems, and Barrier Integrity | |||
{{a|1R21}} | {{a|1R21}} | ||
==1R21 Component Design Bases Inspection== | ==1R21 Component Design Bases Inspection== | ||
{{IP sample|IP=IP 71111.21}} | {{IP sample|IP=IP 71111.21}} | ||
===.1 Introduction=== | ===.1 Introduction=== | ||
===.2 Inspection Sample Selection Process The inspectors used information contained in the | The objective of the component design bases inspection is to verify the design bases have been correctly implemented for the selected risk significant components and the operating procedures and operator actions are consistent with design and licensing bases. As plants age, their design bases may be difficult to determine and an important design feature may be altered or disabled during a modification. The Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA) model assumes the capability of safety systems and components to perform their intended safety function successfully. This inspectable area verifies aspects of the Initiating Events, Mitigating Systems, and Barrier Integrity cornerstones for which there are no indicators to measure performance. | ||
The scenario selected was a Large Break Loss of Coolant Accident (LBLOCA) and subsequent transfer to recirculation. Based on this scenario, a number of risk significant components were selected for the inspection. The inspectors also used additional component information such as a margin assessment in the selection process. This design margin assessment considered original design reductions caused by design modification, power uprates, or reductions due to degraded material condition. Equipment reliability issues were also considered in the selection of components for detailed review. These included items such as performance test results, significant corrective actions, repeated maintenance activities, Maintenance Rule (a)(1) status, components requiring an operability evaluation, NRC resident inspector input of problem areas/equipment, and system health reports | |||
Specific documents reviewed during the inspection are listed in the attachment to the report. | |||
===.2 Inspection Sample Selection Process=== | |||
The inspectors used information contained in the licensees PRA and the Palisades Standardized Plant Analysis Risk Model to identify a scenario to use as the basis for component selection. The scenario selected was a Large Break Loss of Coolant Accident (LBLOCA) and subsequent transfer to recirculation. Based on this scenario, a number of risk significant components were selected for the inspection. | |||
The inspectors also used additional component information such as a margin assessment in the selection process. This design margin assessment considered original design reductions caused by design modification, power uprates, or reductions due to degraded material condition. Equipment reliability issues were also considered in the selection of components for detailed review. These included items such as performance test results, significant corrective actions, repeated maintenance activities, Maintenance Rule (a)(1) status, components requiring an operability evaluation, NRC resident inspector input of problem areas/equipment, and system health reports. | |||
Consideration was also given to the uniqueness and complexity of the design, operating experience, and the available defense in depth margins. A summary of the reviews performed and the specific inspection findings identified are included in the following sections of the report. | |||
The inspectors also identified procedures and modifications for review that were associated with the selected components. In addition, the inspectors selected operating experience issues associated with the selected components. | |||
This inspection constituted 20 samples as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.21-05. | |||
===.3 Component Design=== | ===.3 Component Design=== | ||
====a. Inspection Scope==== | ====a. Inspection Scope==== | ||
The inspectors reviewed the Final Safety Analysis Report (FSAR), Technical Specifications (TS), design basis documents, drawings, calculations and other available design basis information, to determine the performance requirements of the selected components. The inspectors used applicable industry standards, such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Code, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Standards and the National Electric Code, to evaluate acceptability of the systems | The inspectors reviewed the Final Safety Analysis Report (FSAR), Technical Specifications (TS), design basis documents, drawings, calculations and other available design basis information, to determine the performance requirements of the selected components. The inspectors used applicable industry standards, such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Code, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Standards and the National Electric Code, to evaluate acceptability of the systems design. The NRC also evaluated licensee actions, if any, taken in response to NRC issued operating experience, such as Bulletins, Generic Letters (GLs), | ||
Regulatory Issue Summaries (RISs), and Information Notices (INs). The review was to verify the selected components would function as designed when required and support proper operation of the associated systems. The attributes that were needed for a component to perform its required function included process medium, energy sources, control systems, operator actions, and heat removal. The attributes to verify that the component condition and tested capability was consistent with the design bases and was appropriate may include installed configuration, system operation, detailed design, system testing, equipment and environmental qualification, equipment protection, component inputs and outputs, operating experience, and component degradation. | |||
For each of the components selected, the inspectors reviewed the maintenance history, preventive maintenance activities, system health reports, operating experience-related information, vendor manuals, electrical and mechanical drawings, and licensee Corrective Action Program documents. Field walkdowns were conducted for all accessible components to assess material condition and to verify that the as-built condition was consistent with the design. Other attributes reviewed are included as part of the scope for each individual component. | |||
The following 14 components were reviewed: | |||
* Containment Spray Pump P-54A: The inspectors reviewed calculations related to pump hydraulics to ensure the pump was capable of performing its design bases accident mitigation functions. The calculations included analysis of net positive suction head (NPSH), discharge head, flow, and management of potential air entrainment mechanisms. The inspectors also reviewed procedures and system diagrams to ensure the pump would be operated within its design parameters during an event. Recent Inservice Test (IST) reports and historical trends data were reviewed to assess compliance with Technical Specification surveillance requirements, compliance with the applicable code of record, review potential component degradation, and impact on design margins. The inspectors discussed the component's performance with the system engineer and reviewed recent corrective action documents related to the SSC in order to assess the overall health of the component. In addition, the inspectors performed a walkdown to assess material condition of the pump and supporting components. | |||
* 2400V Switchgear 1D: In addition to the generic list of attributes listed above, the inspectors reviewed electrical diagrams, calculations, and procedures, including system short circuit and load flow calculations. Incoming breaker protective relay trip setpoints were reviewed to evaluate the adequacy of the switchgear bus and breakers to carry anticipated loads under limiting conditions and to withstand and interrupt maximum available faults. The inspectors also reviewed the voltage profile of the offsite system, voltage drop calculations, and the undervoltage relay settings to assess adequacy of voltage at the terminals of the safety-related loads and ability to remain connected to offsite power under worst operating and accident conditions. Sizing of the incoming feeder cables was reviewed to determine their capability under worst accident conditions. | |||
* SIRW Tank Suction Valve (CV-3057): The inspectors reviewed procedures and system diagrams to ensure the component would be operated within its design parameters during a design basis event. The inspectors discussed the component's performance with the system engineer, and reviewed recent corrective action documents related to the SSC in order to assess the overall health of the component. Calculations related to the components safety-related air supply was also reviewed. The inspectors reviewed the circuit protection and the environmental qualification to confirm the circuit was adequately protected, and the valve was capable of performing its intended safety function. Voltage drop calculations were reviewed to verify the associated control circuits had adequate voltage under degraded voltage conditions. The inspectors also reviewed surveillance test data, any operator control limitations, operating procedures, vendor and generic communications, recent CRs and operability evaluations for any anomalous indications or possible difficulties in system operation. In addition, the inspectors performed a walkdown to assess material condition of the valve, supporting components, and identify any potential concerns related to adverse interaction with the surrounding equipment. | |||
* Containment Sump Outlet Valve CV-3029: The inspectors reviewed the design basis of the air-operated valve including thrust calculations, the basis for valve stroke time requirements, and the associated control logic. The inspectors reviewed test, and emergency procedures, as well as the response of the system to the failure of the valve to operate under accident conditions. The inspectors reviewed the capacity of the high-pressure air system to verify its capability to operate the valve with a loss of normal instrument air. The inspectors reviewed air system leak test procedures and results and performed a walkdown of the valve to verify its material condition. The inspectors also reviewed the circuit protection, the environmental qualification of affected circuit components to confirm the circuit was adequately protected, and the valve was capable of performing its intended safety function during a design basis accident. Voltage drop calculations were reviewed to verify the associated control circuits had adequate voltage under degraded voltage conditions. The inspectors also reviewed operating procedures, vendor and generic communications, recent CRs and operability evaluations for any anomalous indications or possible difficulties in system operation. | |||
* SIRW Tank Level Switch LS-327: The inspectors reviewed installation drawings and vendor documentation to verify the switch was appropriate for its use. The inspectors reviewed the Recirculation Actuation Signal (RAS) logic to verify the switch met its design basis. The inspectors also reviewed switch calibration and testing procedures. In addition, the inspectors performed a walkdown of the SIRW tank to assess the level transmitters used for calibration of the switch. | |||
* Shutdown Cooling Heat Exchanger E-60A: The inspectors reviewed heat exchanger design documents to verify assumptions made in design bases calculations. The inspectors reviewed normal, test, and emergency procedures. | |||
The inspectors also reviewed historical information to understand how heat exchanger performance had been validated since original installation. A walkdown was performed to assess the material condition of the heat exchanger and supporting components. In addition, the inspectors reviewed aging management aspects related to the heat exchanger. | |||
* Component Cooling Water (CCW) Pump (P-52B): The inspectors reviewed calculations related to pump hydraulics to ensure the pump was capable of performing its design bases accident mitigation functions. Included in the review were cooling requirements for the component and the supplied loads. Also, reviewed were potential alternate sources for cooling the supplied load if CCW were to become unavailable during an accident. The inspectors also reviewed procedures and system diagrams to ensure the pump would be operated within its design parameters during an event. The inspectors discussed the component's performance with the system engineer, and reviewed recent corrective action documents related to the SSC in order to assess the overall health of the component. In addition, the inspectors performed a walkdown to assess material condition of the pump, supporting components, and identify any potential concerns related to adverse interaction with the surrounding or nearby equipment. | |||
* Component Cooling Water (CCW) Relief Valve RV-0956: The inspectors also reviewed procedures and system diagrams to ensure the pump would be operated within its design parameters during an event. The inspectors discussed the component's performance with the system engineer, and reviewed recent corrective action documents related to the SSC in order to assess the overall health of the component. In addition, the inspectors reviewed vendor manuals and technical sheets for the component. The required licensing and design bases for the component were reviewed and discussed with NRR, and requires further evaluation. | |||
* Containment Sump Strainer: The inspectors reviewed results of sump inspections and ECCS pump NPSH analyses to verify the pressure drop across the screens under post-accident conditions. The inspectors reviewed normal, test, and emergency procedures. The inspectors also reviewed the basis for the maximum particle size. | |||
* 125 VDC Bus D10: The inspectors reviewed the circuit diagrams, the short circuit current calculation, and the coordination calculation to confirm the short circuit duty and the proper coordination between the panel fuses and branch circuit cabling with the upstream protective device. The inspectors also reviewed the panel electrical loading and voltage drop calculations, and the branch circuit cabling, to confirm bus and circuit cable ampacity was adequate and branch circuits had adequate voltage. The inspectors also reviewed recent CRs, operability evaluations, and operating procedures for any anomalous indications. | |||
* LPSI Pump Suction Crosstie Valve MO-3090: The inspectors reviewed the design basis of the motor-operated valve including thrust calculations, the basis for valve stroke time requirements, and the associated control logic. The inspectors reviewed normal, test, and emergency procedures including the response to the single failure of an electrical power supply to MO-3090. The inspectors also reviewed the interface between the electrical system distribution calculations and the valve thrust calculation to verify adequate voltage to the valve motor under the most limiting conditions. The inspectors performed a walkdown of the valve to verify its material condition. | |||
* 480V Motor Control Center (MCC) 23: In addition to the generic list of attributes listed above, the inspectors reviewed electrical diagrams, calculations, and procedures, including system short circuit calculations and main alternating current (AC) electrical distribution analysis. Voltage calculations were reviewed to verify minimum and maximum voltages were within equipment capabilities, including downstream power and control components. Thermal overload protection for motor operated valves was reviewed to assess the adequacy of valve motor overload protection. | |||
* ECCS/CS Minimum Flow Valve CV-3027: The inspectors reviewed the design basis of the air-operated valve including thrust calculations, the basis for valve stroke time requirements, and the associated control logic. The inspectors reviewed normal, test, and emergency procedures as well as the response of the system to the single failure of the valve to operate under accident conditions. | |||
The inspectors reviewed the basis for the valve leakage limits and reviewed leak test procedures and results. The inspectors also reviewed the safety classification of valve sub-components. The inspectors performed a walkdown of the valve to verify its material condition. | |||
* 125 VDC Bus D11: The inspectors reviewed the circuit diagrams, the short circuit current calculation, and the coordination calculation to confirm the short circuit duty and the proper coordination between the panel fuses and branch circuit cabling with the upstream protective device. The inspectors reviewed the degraded voltage protection design scheme to determine whether it afforded adequate voltage to safety-related devices at all voltage distribution levels. The inspectors also reviewed the panel electrical loading and the branch circuit cabling, to confirm bus, circuit cable ampacity was adequate, and branch circuits had adequate voltage. The inspectors also reviewed recent CRs, operability evaluations, and operating procedures for any anomalous indications. | |||
====b. Findings==== | ====b. Findings==== | ||
(1) Failure to Ensure Engineered Safeguards Systems (ESS) Are Not Adversely Affected By Air Entrainment | : (1) Failure to Ensure Engineered Safeguards Systems (ESS) Are Not Adversely Affected By Air Entrainment | ||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
A finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | A finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control was identified by the inspectors for the failure to ensure the safety-related ESS Trains would not be adversely affected by air entrainment when the ESS trains are aligned to the SIRW tank under design bases accidents. | ||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
During a postulated design bases accident, the | During a postulated design bases accident, the licensees ESS would be required to operate. At the beginning of the accident the two trains of ESS would begin to operate with their associated pumps suction lined up to the SIRW Tank. Train A includes: one Low Pressure Safety Injection (LPSI) pump, one Containment Spray (CS)pump and one High Pressure Safety Injection (HPSI) pump. Train B includes one LPSI pump, two CS pumps and one HPSI pump. When the water level in the SIRW tank reaches a pre-determined low level, a Recirculation Actuation Signal (RAS) is generated. Once the RAS occurs, the LPCI pumps are tripped off and the pumps' suctions begin to automatically re-aligned to the containment sump. Per the licensees design bases this process can take up to 70 seconds to occur. If the water level were to get too low on the SIRW tank before the automatic swap to the containment sump concludes, air could be drawn into the system. If enough air entrainment occurred, the operability of the downstream pumps could be affected. Air entrainment can degrade pump performance, causing the pumps to air bind, reduce discharge pressure/flow and/or cause delays in injection. | ||
The inspectors reviewed design bases calculation EA-C-PAL-0877D, "Evaluation of the Potential for Excessive Air Entrainment Caused by Vortexing in the SIRW tank During a LOCA," Revision 1. In the calculation the licensee established the critical submergences needed before air entrainment mechanisms could develop (vortexing and radial inflow)and evaluated the lowest water levels reached in the SIRW tank during a design bases accident. The calculation determined the critical submergence limit for vortexing would be exceeded. The licensee estimated the maximum credible air entrainment at the pumps' suctions as 3.6 percent by volume. This value was determined using the "enveloping line" correlation based on Knauss, Jost, "Swirling Flow Problems at Intakes," A. A. Balkema, Rotterdam, Netherlands, 1987 and the expected void compression using the Ideal Gas Law. However, the inspectors noted the configuration described in the referenced material did not match the licensees SIRW tank outlet piping configuration. The referenced material was based on horizontal outlet pipes, not vertical as in the case of the licensees SIRW tank. Also, the expected void fraction at the pumps exceeded those considered acceptable per NEI 09-10, "Guidelines for Effective Prevention and Management of System Gas Accumulation. The NEI 09-10 provides the void fraction acceptance criteria used for operability calls in Palisades' Gas Accumulation Management Program Document. This is discussed in Attachment 9.5 of EN-DC-219, "Gas Accumulation Management," Revision 3 (the licensees Gas Management Program Document): | |||
"These guidelines do not provide acceptance criteria to support permanent design bases or procedural changes. These guidelines do provide a toolset for establishing a Reasonable Expectation of Operability based on industry standards for non-conforming conditions associated with gas intrusion. Other tools may be utilized by a specific site if properly supported by site evaluation." | |||
Upon further review, the inspectors noticed that when determining the lowest level reached in the SIRW tank, calculation EA-C-PAL-0877D did not assume both trains of ESS could be in operation and taking suction from the SIRW tank concurrently. In addition, the calculation did not identify that a postulated single failure could result in a failure of RAS to occur for one train. Under this condition, one train of ESS would not realign to the containment sump and the LPCI pump on the affected train would continue to operate. Both of these concerns would result in a SIRW tank level lower than that assumed in the calculation. The licensee documented the inspectors' concerns under CR-PLP-2014-04472 and CR-PLP-2014-04665. An operability evaluation was also developed under CR-PLP-2014-04665. In order to maintain operability, the licensee re-evaluated the scenarios in Question (EC 53093) and adjusted their acceptance criteria for critical submergence. In addition, compensatory actions to ensure the system behaved as expected in their re-valuation were needed. These actions included: (1)revising the acceptance criteria in QO-2 for the stroke times of the SIRW tank outlet isolation valves CV-3031 and CV-3057 (shortened the allowed stroke time), and (2)revising the acceptance criteria in RI-14 for the SIRW tank low level switches LS-0327, LS-0328, LS-0329 and LS-0330. | |||
=====Analysis:===== | =====Analysis:===== | ||
The inspectors determined the | The inspectors determined the licensees failure to ensure the safety-related ESS Trains would not be adversely affected by air entrainment when aligned to the SIRW tank was a performance deficiency. Specifically, when evaluating if the SIRW tank reaches the limit for critical submergence (during a tank drawdown) calculation EA-C-PAL-0877D, assumed only one train of ESS was in operation instead of both trains. Additionally, the licensee did not evaluate the potential effects on the ESS system if both trains are assumed to be in operation, or if one train fails to receive its RAS signal. Both scenarios result in lower water levels in the SIRW tank, and potential air ingestion into the ESS trains. | ||
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Equipment Performance attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, air entrainment into the ESS systems could potentially impact the operability of the system by air binding the pumps, reduce discharge flow, discharge pressure and/or delay injection. The licensee performed an operability evaluation, and re-analyzed the SIRW tank drain down (EC 53093) in order to ensure the ESS systems remained Operable. | The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Equipment Performance attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, air entrainment into the ESS systems could potentially impact the operability of the system by air binding the pumps, reduce discharge flow, discharge pressure and/or delay injection. The licensee performed an operability evaluation, and re-analyzed the SIRW tank drain down (EC 53093) in order to ensure the ESS systems remained Operable. | ||
The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with IMC 0609, | The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with IMC 0609, Significance Determination Process, Attachment 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings. Specifically, the inspectors used IMC 0609 Appendix A SDP for Findings At-Power Exhibit 2, Mitigating Systems Screening Questions. The finding was a deficiency affecting the design or qualification of a mitigating structure system or component (SSC) but the SSC maintained its operability. Specifically, the licensee performed an operability evaluation CR-PLP-2014-04665 and determined the performance deficiency would result in lower SIRW Tank levels but at least one train of ESS would remain operable during a design bases accident. As a result, the finding screened as having very low safety significance, i.e., Green. | ||
The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding because the finding was not representative of the | The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding because the finding was not representative of the licensees present performance. | ||
=====Enforcement:===== | =====Enforcement:===== | ||
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control requires, in part, that measures shall be established to assure that applicable regulatory requirements and the design basis, as defined in 50.2 and as specified in the license application, for those structures, systems, and components to which this appendix applies are correctly translated into specifications, drawings, procedures, and instructions. | ||
Contrary to the above, as of September 8, 2014, the licensee failed to ensure their ESS trains would not be adversely affected by air entrainment when these are aligned to the SIRW tank. Specifically, calculation EA-C-PAL-0877D, "Evaluation of the Potential for Excessive Air Entrainment Caused by Vortexing in the SIRW tank During a LOCA," | |||
Revision 1, failed to evaluate the potential effects on the ESS systems if both trains were assumed to be in operation, or if one train failed to receive its RAS signal. As part of their corrective actions, the licensee initiated CR-PLP-2014-04665, performed an operability evaluation, and implemented compensatory measures needed to ensure the Engineered Safeguard Systems are able to perform their required safety functions during design bases conditions. | |||
Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-04472 and CR-PLP-2014-04665, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-01, Failure to Ensure Engineered Safeguards Systems Are Not Adversely Affected By Air Entrainment.] | |||
: (2) Undersized Supply Cables from Startup Transformer to 2400V Buses | |||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, was identified by the inspectors for the licensees failure to ensure the incoming feeder cables from startup transformer 1-2 to 2400 V safety-related Buses 1C and 1D were sized in accordance with their design basis, as described in Palisades FSAR Section 8.5.2. | ||
Specifically, the licensee failed to ensure the ampacity of the cables was at least as high as their maximum predicted steady-state current. | |||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
On October 23, 2013, the licensee issued calculation EA-ELEC-EDSA-03, | On October 23, 2013, the licensee issued calculation EA-ELEC-EDSA-03, LOCA with Offsite Power Available, Revision 2, which identified that the maximum steady-state load on Bus 1C during a LOCA would be 873 amps (Tables B2-1C and SU-CD-1C-B2) and on Bus 1D would be 953 amps (Table SU-1D-2355-B2). Palisades FSAR Section 8.5.2 states that Cables installed in...underground ducts are thermally sized in accordance with NEC or IPCEA/ICEA ampacity values (depending on cable physical size) of concentric stranded insulated cable for the conductor operating temperature of the insulation. According to Section 4.0 a of Engineering Analysis EA-ELEC-AMP-030, Capability of the 2400V Feeder Cables to Buses 1C and 1D from the Startup Transformer 1-2, Revision 2, the rated operating temperature of the cable insulation is 90°C. According to Engineering Change EC 24546 to Design Basis Document DBD 3.04, 2400V AC System," Revision 7, the ampacity is 636 amps (current that would raise the cable temperature to 90°C). Thus, the cable ampacity is exceeded by the loading levels calculated in EA-ELEC-EDSA-03, contrary to the requirement of FSAR Section 8.5.2. Although the licensee previously entered this issue into their Margin Management Program as Margin Issue 414, they failed to characterize it as a design basis deficiency. | ||
Based on inspector concerns, the licensee entered this issue into the Corrective Action Program as CR- CR-PLP-2014-4860 with a recommended action to provide additional procedural guidance for unloading the cables if an overload condition were to occur. | |||
The licensee also verified current operability by confirming the cables would not fail as a result of the condition. | |||
=====Analysis:===== | =====Analysis:===== | ||
The inspectors determined the failure to ensure the supply cables to Buses 1C and 1D are sized in accordance with the design basis was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | The inspectors determined the failure to ensure the supply cables to Buses 1C and 1D are sized in accordance with the design basis was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, and was a performance deficiency. The finding was determined to be more than minor because the finding was associated with the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, cables were undersized with respect to the loading that would automatically occur as the result of a design basis event. | ||
The inspectors assessed this finding for significance in accordance with NRC Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, Exhibit 2, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, and determined that it was of very low safety significance (Green),because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality. This finding had a crosscutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Design Margin component, because the licensee did not ensure that equipment is operated and maintained within design margins, and margins are carefully guarded and changed only through a systematic and rigorous process. The licensees margin management program had not corrected this known condition. [H.6] | |||
=====Enforcement:===== | =====Enforcement:===== | ||
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control requires, in part, Measures shall be established to assure that applicable regulatory requirements and the design basis are correctly translated into specifications, drawings, procedures, and instructions. The design control measures shall provide for verifying or checking the adequacy of design, such as by the performance of design reviews, by the use of alternate or simplified calculational methods, or by the performance of a suitable testing program. | ||
Contrary to the above, as of September 8, 2014, the licensee failed to assure that the design basis for cable sizing specified in FSAR Section 8.5.2 was translated into the design of the cables. Specifically, the design ampacity of the cables was less than their maximum predicted steady-state load. Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-CR-PLP-2014-4860 with a recommended action to provide additional procedural guidance for unloading the cables if an overload condition were to occur, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. | |||
The licensee also verified current operability by confirming the cables would not fail as a result of the condition. [NCV 05000255/2014008-02, Undersized Supply Cables from Startup Transformer to 2400V Buses.] | |||
: (3) Undersized Motors | |||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, was identified by the inspectors for the licensees failure to ensure that electric motors are sized in accordance with the design basis, as discussed in Palisades FSAR Section 6.2.3.1. | ||
Specifically, the horsepower ratings of certain motors are less than power demands of their driven equipment, and they were not analyzed to ensure that overheating would not occur. | |||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
Palisades FSAR Section 6.2.3.1 states the containment spray | Palisades FSAR Section 6.2.3.1 states the containment spray motor drivers have been selected to be non-overloading over the entire pump operating range. | ||
To the contrary, on August 6, 2014, the licensee issued calculation EA-ELEC-LDTAB-005, Emergency Diesel Generators 1-1 and 1-2 Steady State Loadings, Revision 10, which identifies, in Table C.1, that the motor for containment spray pump P-54A is rated 250 HP, but the power demand of the pump is 278 BHP. The calculation also lists other motors having ratings less than the power demand of their associated driven equipment. | |||
Power demands of the containment spray pumps and other motor driven equipment would be even higher than those listed in Calculation Tables A.1 through E.2 when the emergency diesel generator is operating at its maximum allowable frequency and voltage. The calculation identifies, in Section 4.24, that this operating condition would cause a 6.32 percent increase in the power demands. The inspectors noted calculation EA-ELEC-LDTAB-005 does not analyze or justify the undersized motor condition, nor is there any other analysis that justifies this condition. In the, Quality Assurance Program Manual, Revision 26, the licensee is committed to Regulatory Guide 1.64, Quality Assurance Requirements for the Design of Nuclear Power Plants, Revision 2, which cites ANSI N45.2.11-1974, Quality Assurance Requirements for the Design of Nuclear Power Plants. ANSI N45.2.11 states, Measures shall be applied to verify the adequacy of design. Design verification is the process of reviewing, confirming, or substantiating the design by one or more methods to provide assurance that the design meets the specified design inputs. The results of design verification efforts shall be clearly documented. Contrary to this requirement, the licensee had not verified and documented the thermal capability of motors serving loads in excess of the motor horsepower rating. | |||
The licensee entered this issue into their Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4902 with a recommended action to analyze the effect of the condition. The licensee subsequently verified operability of the motors. | |||
=====Analysis:===== | =====Analysis:===== | ||
The inspectors determined the failure to ensure that electric motors are sized in accordance with the design basis and verified to be within their thermal capability was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | The inspectors determined the failure to ensure that electric motors are sized in accordance with the design basis and verified to be within their thermal capability was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, and was a performance deficiency. The finding was determined to be more than minor because the finding was associated with the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, certain motors serve loads with demands in excess of the motor horsepower ratings, and they were not analyzed to ensure that overheating would not occur. | ||
The inspectors assessed this finding for significance in accordance with NRC Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, Exhibit 2, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, and determined that it was of very low safety significance (Green),because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality. | |||
This finding had a crosscutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Design Margin component, because the licensee did not ensure that equipment is operated and maintained within design margins, and margins are carefully guarded and changed only through a systematic and rigorous process. [H.6] | |||
=====Enforcement:===== | =====Enforcement:===== | ||
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control requires, in part, that Measures shall be established to assure that applicable regulatory requirements and the design basis are correctly translated into specifications, drawings, procedures, and instructions. The design control measures shall provide for verifying or checking the adequacy of design, such as by the performance of design reviews, by the use of alternate or simplified calculational methods, or by the performance of a suitable testing program. | ||
Contrary to the above, as of September 8, 2014, the licensee failed to verify the adequacy of design of certain motors. Specifically, the horsepower ratings of those motors did not bound the power demands of their driven equipment, and they were not analyzed to ensure that the condition would not cause overheating. | |||
Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4902, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. | |||
[NCV 05000255/2014008-03, Undersized Motors.] | |||
: (4) Failure to Ensure that 480V System Voltages do not Exceed Equipment Ratings | |||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, was identified by the inspectors for the licensees failure to ensure that voltages on the 480V system do not exceed equipment ratings. Specifically, the licensee increased the output voltage of the supply transformers to the 480V safety-related buses by 2.5 percent, but failed to ensure that the resulting voltages would not exceed equipment ratings when the system is powered from the station power transformer or emergency diesel generator. | ||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
On March 30, 1995, the licensee issued calculation EA-ELEC-VOLT-036, | On March 30, 1995, the licensee issued calculation EA-ELEC-VOLT-036, Station Power Transformers No. 11, 12, 19, and 20 Tap Change - 2.5 percent, Revision 0, which states, in Section IV.2.1, the maximum allowed voltage at 480 V Load Centers/MCCs is 1.058 pu (480 V base). On July 28, 1995, the licensee issued Specification Change document SC-94-102, Revision 0, to increase the output voltage of the supply transformers to the 480V safety-related buses by 2.5 percent. The inspectors determined the licensee failed to recognize that this could result in voltages at the 480V buses in excess of the 1.058 per unit limit. In addition, calculation EA-ELEC-VOLT-036, Section IV.4.3, postulated a non-conservative maximum voltage on the 2400V buses of 1.0 per unit (2400V). However, voltages on the 2400V buses in excess of 1.0 per unit could occur due to 1) operation on the diesel generator supply within the diesel generator voltage range up to 1.05 per unit, as allowed by Palisades Technical Specification SR 3.8.1.2, or 2) operation on the non-regulated Station Power Transformer 1-2 supply during shutdown conditions, as discussed in Palisades Technical Specification Basis 3.8.2. | ||
The inspectors were concerned these higher voltages on the 2400V buses, in conjunction with the 2.5 percent increase in voltage to the 480V buses, could result in over voltages on the 480V buses. Voltages higher than the 1.058 per unit calculation limit could cause exposure of load equipment to voltages in excess of the manufacturers ratings and diminished capability of electrical protective devices to interrupt short circuit currents. | |||
The licensee entered this issue into their Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4696 with a recommended action to further analyze emergency diesel generator operation at its maximum allowable voltage and CR-PLP-2014-4864 with an action to restrict switchyard maximum voltage when the safety-related buses are powered from the station power transformer. The licensee subsequently determined that all equipment was operable at the full range of diesel operation. | |||
=====Analysis:===== | =====Analysis:===== | ||
The inspectors determined the | The inspectors determined the licensees failure to verify or check the adequacy of Specification Change document SC-94-102, Revision 0, was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, and was a performance deficiency. The finding was determined to be more than minor because the finding was associated with the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, the licensee failed to verify or check the adequacy of Engineering Assessment EA-ELEC-VOLT-036, Station Power Transformers Nos. 11, 12, 19, and 20 Tap Change - 2.5 percent, Revision 0, to ensure that postulated maximum source voltages bounded allowable operating conditions and thus that the voltage increase would not result in overvoltage conditions. | ||
The inspectors assessed this finding for significance in accordance with NRC Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, Exhibit 2. The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, and determined that it was of very low safety significance (Green),because the SSCs maintained their operability and functionality. The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding, because the finding was not representative of the licensees present performance. | |||
=====Enforcement:===== | =====Enforcement:===== | ||
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control requires, in part, that Measures shall be established to assure that applicable regulatory requirements and the design basis are correctly translated into specifications, drawings, procedures, and instructions. The design control measures shall provide for verifying or checking the adequacy of design, such as by the performance of design reviews, by the use of alternate or simplified calculational methods, or by the performance of a suitable testing program. Contrary to the above, as of September 8, 2014, the licensee failed to verify the adequacy of the design of the transformer tap settings. Specifically, the 2.5 percent boost in voltages to the 480V buses could result in voltages in excess of equipment ratings under certain allowable operating conditions. | ||
Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4696, and CR-PLP-2014-4864 this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-04, Failure to Ensure that 480V System Voltages do not Exceed Equipment Ratings.] | |||
: (5) Failure To Perform Comprehensive Pump Testing Of Containment Spray Pump P-54A In Accordance With The Inservice Testing Program. | |||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
Line 169: | Line 297: | ||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
On February 25, 2014 the licensee performed WO 52435851 01, "RO-98 -LPSI PMP VIB, CONT SPRY PMP VIB, DIS CK," which includes the comprehensive pump test of Containment Spray (CS) Pump P-54A. The comprehensive pump test is performed every 18 months in accordance with the ASME OMb Code-2001, through ASME OMb Code-2003 Addenda, which according to FSAR Section 6.9.2.1, | On February 25, 2014 the licensee performed WO 52435851 01, "RO-98 - | ||
LPSI PMP VIB, CONT SPRY PMP VIB, DIS CK," which includes the comprehensive pump test of Containment Spray (CS) Pump P-54A. The comprehensive pump test is performed every 18 months in accordance with the ASME OMb Code-2001, through ASME OMb Code-2003 Addenda, which according to FSAR Section 6.9.2.1, Pump Testing Program," and Site Engineering Program SEP-PLP-IST-102, "Inservice Testing of Selected Safety-Related Pumps" is the code of record for Palisades. Comprehensive testing of pumps is performed in order to detect potential degradation of the equipment and helps ensure the SSC will be able to meet its design requirements. During the test, the recorded differential pressure (DP) was 142.0 psid as read on differential pressure indicator DPI-0319A (range 0 to 250 psid). This value was within the Alert Range established by the licensee's procedure. Procedure RO-98 establishes the different criteria for P-54A as follows: | |||
* The Acceptable Range was a 143.2 to 158.6 psid; | |||
* The Alert Range was 138.6 to 143.2 psid; | |||
* The Required Action Range was DP lower than 138.6 psid or greater than 158.6 psid; and | |||
* The Acceptance Criteria was DP greater than 136.9 psid at 2250 +/- 35 gpm The licensee documented the test results in the Alert Range under CR-PLP-2014-01679. | |||
The licensee suspected instrumentation issues may have been the cause of the deviation. Site personnel performed a historical search of RO-98 testing and identified several CRs related to instrumentation issues including CR-PLP-2010-05181 and CR-PLP-2010-06403. On January 13, 2014, the DPI-0319A had been calibrated to ensure it was within the comprehensive test required accuracy. On February 26, 2014, a post-test calibration was performed in accordance with WO 52435851 01. The result of the calibrations showed pressure indicator DPI-0319A was outside of the test requirements. The results indicated the gauge was reading lower than actual DP. The licensee determined the deviation was approximately 8.75 psid lower and concluded this would indicate an actual DP of approximately 150 psid under RO-98 conditions for pump P-54A. The licensee concluded this would result in a DP within the acceptable range. In addition to the above, the license performed an assessment of the vibration results obtained and evaluated various pump result trends (comprehensive and quarterly testing) associated with pump performance. Based on this review, documented on CR-PLP-2014-01679, the licensee concluded pump P-54A was actually operating within its acceptable range and no additional corrective actions were required. | |||
However, the inspectors were concerned the comprehensive pump test performed on February 25, 2014, was invalid because it did not meet the requirements specified by the ASME code. Specifically, the requirements for differential pressure instrument accuracy. | |||
Per ASME OMb Code-2003, ISTB-3510(a) Accuracy states: Instrument accuracy shall be within the limits of Table ISTB-3500-1. Table ISTB-3500-1, Required Instrument Accuracy, requires the differential pressure instrument accuracy for differential pressure readings during a comprehensive test to be plus or minus 1/2 percent full scale. The post-test calibration results showed DPI-0319A did not meet the required accuracy. The ASME code, Section ISTB-6300 "Systematic Error" requires: | |||
"When a test shows measured parameter values that fall outside of the acceptable range of Table ISTB-5100-1, Table ISTB-5200-1, Table ISTB-5300-1, or Table ISTB-5300-2, as applicable, that have resulted from an identified systematic error, such as improper system lineup or inaccurate instrumentation, the test shall be rerun after correcting the error." | |||
Containment Spray Pump, P-54A, acceptance values for testing fall under Table ISTB-5100-1 "Centrifugal Pump Test Acceptance Criteria. As such, the licensee should have rerun the comprehensive test once DPI-0319A was shown to be out of calibration. | |||
Failing to perform the IST comprehensive test as prescribe by the code was contrary to Technical Specifications (TS) 5.5.7, which requires an Inservice Testing Program be establish, implemented, and maintained. Section TS 5.5.7 a. establishes the required IST intervals as required by the code. Complete details for pumps IST are contained in Site Engineering Program SEP-PLP-IST-102, "Inservice Testing of Selected Safety-Related Pumps." | Failing to perform the IST comprehensive test as prescribe by the code was contrary to Technical Specifications (TS) 5.5.7, which requires an Inservice Testing Program be establish, implemented, and maintained. Section TS 5.5.7 a. establishes the required IST intervals as required by the code. Complete details for pumps IST are contained in Site Engineering Program SEP-PLP-IST-102, "Inservice Testing of Selected Safety-Related Pumps." The licensee documented the inspectors' concerns and documented the basis of operability under CR-PLP-2014-04881. The licensee determined the component remained operable based on the evaluation of the instruments calibration and the successful completion of the most recent quarterly IST. | ||
=====Analysis:===== | =====Analysis:===== | ||
The inspectors determined the failure to perform comprehensive pump testing of CS pump P-54A in accordance with the code of record was contrary to Technical Specification 5.5.7., "Inservice Testing," and a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it was associated with the mitigating system cornerstone attribute of equipment performance. | The inspectors determined the failure to perform comprehensive pump testing of CS pump P-54A in accordance with the code of record was contrary to Technical Specification 5.5.7., "Inservice Testing," and a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it was associated with the mitigating system cornerstone attribute of equipment performance. | ||
The PD adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of CS pump P-54A to respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, failing to perform testing as required could result in the degradation of the equipment being undetected. | |||
The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with IMC 0609, | The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with IMC 0609, Significance Determination Process, Attachment 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings. Specifically, the inspectors used IMC 0609 Appendix A SDP for Findings At-Power Exhibit 2, Mitigating Systems Screening Questions. The finding was a deficiency affecting the design or qualification of a mitigating structure system or component (SSC) but the SSC maintained its operability. This was based on the licensee's evaluation of recent pump quarterly testing, the risk evaluation performed by the licensee, and allowance to defer performing the surveillance in according with the Technical Specifications. As a result, the finding screened as having a very low safety significance, i.e. Green. | ||
The inspectors determined the findings had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of Problem Identification and Resolution, Evaluation, because the licensee failed to thoroughly evaluate the issue to ensure that resolutions address causes and extents of conditions commensurate with their safety significance. Specifically, the licensee failed to identify that the out of calibration instrument would result in an invalid IST results, which would require rerunning the test per the code. [P.2] | The inspectors determined the findings had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of Problem Identification and Resolution, Evaluation, because the licensee failed to thoroughly evaluate the issue to ensure that resolutions address causes and extents of conditions commensurate with their safety significance. Specifically, the licensee failed to identify that the out of calibration instrument would result in an invalid IST results, which would require rerunning the test per the code. [P.2] | ||
=====Enforcement:===== | =====Enforcement:===== | ||
Palisades Technical Specifications 5.5, "Programs and Manuals," states: | Palisades Technical Specifications 5.5, "Programs and Manuals," states: | ||
"The following programs shall be established, implemented, and maintained," Technical Specifications 5.5.7, Inservice Testing Program, states: "This program provides controls for inservice testing of ASME Code Class 1, 2, and 3 components." Additionally, Site Engineering Program SEP-PLP-IST-102, "Inservice Testing of Selected Safety-Related Pumps" provides the details for performing Inservice Testing at Palisades and lists ASME OMb Code-2001, through ASME OMb Code-2003 Addenda, as the code of record for Palisades. | |||
Contrary to the above, on February 25, 2014, the licensee failed to rerun a comprehensive pump test of Containment Spray pump P-54A in accordance with ASME code. Specifically, the licensee failed to meet the requirements of Section ISTB-6300, | Contrary to the above, on February 25, 2014, the licensee failed to rerun a comprehensive pump test of Containment Spray pump P-54A in accordance with ASME code. Specifically, the licensee failed to meet the requirements of Section ISTB-6300, Systematic Error, which requires licensees, after correcting the error, to rerun tests when the test shows the measured parameter falls outside the acceptable range as a result of a systematic error such as inaccurate instrumentation. The licensee entered this issue into their Corrective Action Program and evaluated the operability of the component in accordance with their process. Based on previously successful IST quarterly test the licensee determined the component remained operable. Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-04881, this violation is being treated as a Green NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-06, Failure to Perform Comprehensive Pump Testing of Containment Spray Pump P-54A in accordance with the Inservice Testing Program.] | ||
: (6) Failure to Correctly Translate Valve Leakage Limits into Test Procedure | |||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green)and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, for the licensees failure to correctly translate design valve leakage limits into test procedures. Specifically, the acceptance criterion for ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056 had not been correctly adjusted to account for the higher differential pressure associated with ECCS operation under post-accident conditions. | ||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
The inspectors reviewed the leak test procedure and acceptance criteria associated with ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056. These valves were installed in series in the common minimum flow recirculation line from the ECCS and CS pumps to the SIRW tank. During post-accident operation, these valves remain open during the ECCS injection phase to provide minimum flow protection for the low pressure safety injection (LPSI) and high pressure safety injection (HPSI) pumps. During the recirculation phase of post-accident operation, these valves are required to be closed to limit the release of radiological material from the SIRW tank vent. The inspectors observed the design basis alternate source term analysis, NAI-1149-014, Revision 4 (dated 10/15/07), was based on a maximum allowable recirculation line leakage of 0.00625 gpm (23.7 ml/min). Test procedure RO-119, Inservice Testing of Engineered Safeguards Valves CV-3027 and CV-3056, Revision 14 included a leakage acceptance criterion of 25.1 ml/min. The inspectors also observed test Procedure RO-119 was performed with a LPSI pump in operation. The acceptance criterion had not been correctly adjusted to account for the higher differential pressure associated with HPSI pump operation under post-accident conditions. The licensee performed an informal evaluation and determined that the correct leakage acceptance criterion would be 6 ml/min. Condition Report CR-PLP-2014-04681 was initiated to address this issue. The licensee determined that past leak test results for both CV-3027 and CV-3056 had exceeded the corrected acceptance criterion of 6 ml/min. However, the most recent leak test results for both CV-3027 and CV-3056 were less than 6 ml/min. The licensee also reviewed the results in the context of total containment leakage and verified the past leak test results did not exceed operability limits. | The inspectors reviewed the leak test procedure and acceptance criteria associated with ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056. These valves were installed in series in the common minimum flow recirculation line from the ECCS and CS pumps to the SIRW tank. During post-accident operation, these valves remain open during the ECCS injection phase to provide minimum flow protection for the low pressure safety injection (LPSI) and high pressure safety injection (HPSI) pumps. | ||
During the recirculation phase of post-accident operation, these valves are required to be closed to limit the release of radiological material from the SIRW tank vent. | |||
The inspectors observed the design basis alternate source term analysis, NAI-1149-014, Revision 4 (dated 10/15/07), was based on a maximum allowable recirculation line leakage of 0.00625 gpm (23.7 ml/min). Test procedure RO-119, Inservice Testing of Engineered Safeguards Valves CV-3027 and CV-3056, Revision 14 included a leakage acceptance criterion of 25.1 ml/min. The inspectors also observed test Procedure RO-119 was performed with a LPSI pump in operation. The acceptance criterion had not been correctly adjusted to account for the higher differential pressure associated with HPSI pump operation under post-accident conditions. The licensee performed an informal evaluation and determined that the correct leakage acceptance criterion would be 6 ml/min. Condition Report CR-PLP-2014-04681 was initiated to address this issue. | |||
The licensee determined that past leak test results for both CV-3027 and CV-3056 had exceeded the corrected acceptance criterion of 6 ml/min. However, the most recent leak test results for both CV-3027 and CV-3056 were less than 6 ml/min. The licensee also reviewed the results in the context of total containment leakage and verified the past leak test results did not exceed operability limits. | |||
=====Analysis:===== | =====Analysis:===== | ||
The inspectors determined the failure to correctly translate design valve leakage limits into test procedures was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | The inspectors determined the failure to correctly translate design valve leakage limits into test procedures was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, and was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it was associated with the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone attribute of Design Control and it adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events. | ||
Specifically, measured leakage exceeded analyzed dose calculations. | |||
The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, | The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Significance Determination Process, 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings, issued on June 19, 2012. | ||
0609.04, | |||
Because the finding impacted the Barriers Cornerstone, the inspectors screened the finding through IMC 0609 Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process for Findings At-Power, issued June 19, 2012, using Exhibit 3, Barrier Integrity Screening Questions. The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the inspectors answered No to all of the screening questions in Subsection B, Reactor Containment, of Exhibit 3. Specifically, the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment. The inspectors determined this finding did not have an associated cross-cutting aspect because it was not representative of the licensees present performance. | |||
=====Enforcement:===== | =====Enforcement:===== | ||
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, | Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, requires, in part, that measures shall be established to assure that applicable regulatory requirements and the design basis, as defined in §50.2 and as specified in the license application, for those structures, systems, and components to which this appendix applies are correctly translated into specifications, drawings, procedures, and instructions. | ||
Contrary to the above, as of September 25, 2014, the licensee failed to correctly translated design leakage limits into the test procedure for valves CV-3027 and CV-3056. Because this violation was of very low safety significance and was entered into the | Contrary to the above, as of September 25, 2014, the licensee failed to correctly translated design leakage limits into the test procedure for valves CV-3027 and CV-3056. Because this violation was of very low safety significance and was entered into the licensees CAP as CR-PLP-2014-04681, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-07, Failure to Correctly Translate Valve Leakage Limits into Test Procedure. | ||
: (7) Failure to Identify Non-Safety-Related Sub-Components Improperly Supplied with Safety-Related Valves | |||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green)and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, Control of Purchased Material, Equipment, and Services, for the licensees failure to identify non-safety-related sub-components improperly supplied with safety-related valves. | ||
Specifically, ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056, which were installed in 2007, were supplied with non-safety-related sub-components. These components were identified as non-safety- related on the vendor drawings. In addition, the licensee later installed a section of non-safety-related tubing on valve CV-3027 based on the incorrect vendor drawing. | |||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
The inspectors reviewed the vendor drawings for safety-related ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056, which were installed in 2007. Drawings VEN-M241BC, Sheet 33, Revision 0 and VEN-M241BC, Sheet 35, Revision 0 listed the sub-components associated with these valves and identified the quality classification of each sub-component. The inspection team noted that some of the sub-components appeared to be incorrectly classified as non-safety-related. The licensee investigated and determined the drawings were incorrect and that some of these components were actually supplied as safety-related; however, several cap screws were inappropriately supplied as non-safety-related. Condition report CR-PLP-2014-04755 was initiated to correct the drawings and replace the non-safety-related cap screws with safety-related material. The licensee performed additional investigation and determined a section of non-safety-related tubing had been installed on valve CV-3027 during maintenance activities; this error was based on the incorrect vendor drawing. Condition report CR-PLP-2014-04815 was initiated to correct the drawings and replace the tubing with safety-related material. The licensee performed an evaluation and determined both valves were operable in their current condition. | The inspectors reviewed the vendor drawings for safety-related ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056, which were installed in 2007. | ||
Drawings VEN-M241BC, Sheet 33, Revision 0 and VEN-M241BC, Sheet 35, Revision 0 listed the sub-components associated with these valves and identified the quality classification of each sub-component. The inspection team noted that some of the sub-components appeared to be incorrectly classified as non-safety-related. The licensee investigated and determined the drawings were incorrect and that some of these components were actually supplied as safety-related; however, several cap screws were inappropriately supplied as non-safety-related. Condition report CR-PLP-2014-04755 was initiated to correct the drawings and replace the non-safety-related cap screws with safety-related material. | |||
The licensee performed additional investigation and determined a section of non-safety-related tubing had been installed on valve CV-3027 during maintenance activities; this error was based on the incorrect vendor drawing. Condition report CR-PLP-2014-04815 was initiated to correct the drawings and replace the tubing with safety-related material. The licensee performed an evaluation and determined both valves were operable in their current condition. | |||
=====Analysis:===== | =====Analysis:===== | ||
The inspectors determined the failure to identify non-safety-related sub-components improperly supplied with safety-related valves was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, | The inspectors determined the failure to identify non-safety-related sub-components improperly supplied with safety-related valves was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, Control of Purchased Material, Equipment, and Services, and was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it was associated with the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone attribute of Design Control and it adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events. Specifically, the licensee failed to verify the sub-components of valves CV-3027 and CV-3056 met their design requirements. | ||
The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Significance Determination Process, 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings, issued on June 19, 2012. | |||
Because the finding impacted the Barriers Cornerstone, the inspectors screened the finding through IMC 0609 Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process for Findings At-Power, issued June 19, 2012, using Exhibit 3, Barrier Integrity Screening Questions. The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the inspectors answered No to all of the screening questions in Subsection B, Reactor Containment, of Exhibit 3. Specifically, the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment. The inspectors determined this finding did not have an associated cross-cutting aspect because it was not representative of current performance. | |||
=====Enforcement:===== | =====Enforcement:===== | ||
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, | Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, Control of Purchased Material, Equipment, and Services, requires, in part, that measures shall be established to assure that purchased material, equipment, and services, whether purchased directly or through contractors and subcontractors, conform to the procurement documents. | ||
Contrary to the above, as of September 25, 2007 and October 8, 2007, when these valves were installed, the licensee failed to assure that purchased material conformed to the procurement documents. Because this violation was of very low safety significance and was entered into the | Contrary to the above, as of September 25, 2007 and October 8, 2007, when these valves were installed, the licensee failed to assure that purchased material conformed to the procurement documents. Because this violation was of very low safety significance and was entered into the licensees CAP as CR-PLP-2014-04755 and CR-PLP-2014-04815, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-08, Failure to Identify Non-Safety-Related Sub-Components Improperly Supplied with Safety-Related Valves.] | ||
: (8) Failure to Establish an Adequate Test Program for the Shutdown Cooling Heat Exchangers | |||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, | The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green)and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, for the licensees failure to establish an adequate test program for the Shutdown Cooling (SDC) | ||
Heat Exchangers (HXs) to demonstrate they can perform as designed. Specifically, the licensee failed to take actions to ensure the SDC HXs heat transfer capability met its design bases, as assumed in design bases calculations. | |||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
The SDC HXs were designed for use during primary system cooldown, refueling, and emergency plant operation. During plant cooldowns and refueling outages, the HXs remove decay heat by directly cooling the primary coolant system | The SDC HXs were designed for use during primary system cooldown, refueling, and emergency plant operation. During plant cooldowns and refueling outages, the HXs remove decay heat by directly cooling the primary coolant system. | ||
In addition, the SDC HXs have never been successfully thermal performance tested. In 1992, the licensee identified the need to thermal performance test the SDC HXs to verify they could perform as designed. However, because they were successfully performing their SDC function and because both water streams flowing through the HXs had chemistry controls in place, the licensee decided it was not necessary to perform the test. In 1996, the licensee completed a thermal performance test, but the analysis of the test results concluded the test did not achieve its goal of recording useful data. The test has never been repeated, and the licensee instead continues to credit the SDC function and the chemistry controls in place to provide assurance that the SDC HXs can perform as designed. In 1989 the NRC issued Generic Letter (GL) 89-13, | During emergency plant operations, the HXs form part of the containment cooling system by cooling the containment spray water. In addition, during the recirculation phase of a loss of coolant accident (LOCA), the SDC HXs cool the containment sump water that is injected by the High Pressure Safety Injection (HPSI) pumps to provide long term core cooling. | ||
The SDC HXs are original plant equipment that has been intermittently operated since the beginning of plant operations in 1971. In over 40 years, they have never been inspected, contrary to vendor recommendations. Section E-4.1 of the vendor manual states that, at intervals as experience indicates, an examination should be made of the interior and exterior condition of all tubes. Since the licensee has never inspected the interior of the SDC HXs, they have not established a frequency for performing the HX inspections as recommended by the vendor manual. | |||
In addition, the SDC HXs have never been successfully thermal performance tested. In 1992, the licensee identified the need to thermal performance test the SDC HXs to verify they could perform as designed. However, because they were successfully performing their SDC function and because both water streams flowing through the HXs had chemistry controls in place, the licensee decided it was not necessary to perform the test. In 1996, the licensee completed a thermal performance test, but the analysis of the test results concluded the test did not achieve its goal of recording useful data. The test has never been repeated, and the licensee instead continues to credit the SDC function and the chemistry controls in place to provide assurance that the SDC HXs can perform as designed. | |||
In 1989 the NRC issued Generic Letter (GL) 89-13, Service Water System Problems Affecting Safety-Related Equipment. Although the GL was mostly related to open cycle cooling water systems, it did contain the following guidance related to closed cycle cooling water systems: | |||
Operating experience and studies indicate that closed-cycle service water systems, such as component cooling water systems, have the potential for significant fouling as a consequence of aging-related in-leakage and erosion or corrosion. The need for testing of closed-cycle system heat exchangers has not been considered necessary because of the assumed high quality of existing chemistry control programs. If the adequacy of these chemistry control programs cannot be confirmed over the total operating history of the plant [emphasis added] or if during the conduct of the total testing program any unexplained downward trend in heat exchanger performance is identified that cannot be remedied by maintenance of an open-cycle system, it may be necessary to selectively extend the test program and the routine inspection and maintenance program addressed in Action III, below, to the attached closed-cycle systems. | |||
Therefore, the NRC recognized that testing of closed cycle system heat exchangers was not necessary if high quality chemistry control programs were in place. However, this was dependent on whether or not the adequacy of the chemistry control programs could be confirmed over the total operating history of the plant. Although Palisades has chemistry controls in place for both water streams (Primary Coolant System and Component Cooling Water) flowing through the SDC HXs, the licensee had not verified the effectiveness of these chemistry controls in preventing degradation of the SDC HXs heat transfer capability. The chemistry controls, in themselves, are not enough to demonstrate the SDC HXs can perform as assumed in design bases calculations. | |||
The licensee also credits the SDC function of the HXs to provide justification that they can perform as designed. However, during SDC, the water temperatures and flow rates through the HX are different than those during emergency plant operation, and the licensee does not monitor or trend the SDC performance of the HXs to detect degradation. Therefore, although the HXs are successfully performing the routine SDC function, the licensee does not gather nor analyze sufficient HX performance information to demonstrate the HXs can perform as assumed in design bases calculations. | The licensee also credits the SDC function of the HXs to provide justification that they can perform as designed. However, during SDC, the water temperatures and flow rates through the HX are different than those during emergency plant operation, and the licensee does not monitor or trend the SDC performance of the HXs to detect degradation. Therefore, although the HXs are successfully performing the routine SDC function, the licensee does not gather nor analyze sufficient HX performance information to demonstrate the HXs can perform as assumed in design bases calculations. | ||
The issue was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-04912 to review the adequacy of testing performed to ensure the SDC HXs remain qualified to the capability assumed during design bases events. Based upon the available tube plugging margin and recent history of chemistry controls, the inspectors gained reasonable assurance of operability. | |||
=====Analysis:===== | =====Analysis:===== | ||
The inspectors determined the failure to establish an adequate test program for the SDC HXs to demonstrate they could perform as designed was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, | The inspectors determined the failure to establish an adequate test program for the SDC HXs to demonstrate they could perform as designed was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, and was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it was associated with the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone attribute of Design Control and it adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events. Specifically, the licensee failed to verify that the SDC HXs heat transfer capability met their design bases, as assumed in design bases calculations, to limit containment temperatures and pressures during an event. | ||
The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, | The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Significance Determination Process, 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings, issued on June 19, 2012. | ||
The inspectors determined this finding had an associated cross-cutting aspect, Conservative Bias, in the Human Performance cross-cutting area. Specifically, on several occasions and as recently as October 2012 when the licensee identified the need to perform testing and/or inspection of the SDC HXs, the licensee did not take actions because they did not believe any regulatory requirements or technical issues existed that required the testing and/or inspections. | Because the finding impacted the Barriers Cornerstone, the inspectors screened the finding through IMC 0609 Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process for Findings At-Power, issued June 19, 2012, using Exhibit 3, Barrier Integrity Screening Questions. The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the inspectors answered No to all of the screening questions in Subsection B, Reactor Containment, of Exhibit 3. Specifically, the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment. | ||
The inspectors determined this finding had an associated cross-cutting aspect, Conservative Bias, in the Human Performance cross-cutting area. Specifically, on several occasions and as recently as October 2012 when the licensee identified the need to perform testing and/or inspection of the SDC HXs, the licensee did not take actions because they did not believe any regulatory requirements or technical issues existed that required the testing and/or inspections. [H.14] | |||
=====Enforcement:===== | =====Enforcement:===== | ||
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, | Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, requires, in part, that a test program shall be established to assure all testing required to demonstrate structures, systems, and components will perform satisfactorily in service is identified and performed in accordance with written test procedures which incorporate the requirements and acceptance limits contained in applicable design documents. | ||
Because this violation was of very low safety significance and was entered into the | Contrary to the above, as of November 4, 2014, the licensee failed to establish an adequate test program for the SDC HXs to demonstrate they could perform as designed. | ||
(9) Failure To Include The Degraded Voltage Channel Time Delay In TS Surveillance Requirement 3.3.5.2.a | |||
Specifically, the licensee failed to take actions to ensure the heat transfer capability of the SDC HXs met their design bases, as assumed in design bases calculations. | |||
Because this violation was of very low safety significance and was entered into the licensees CAP as CR-PLP-2014-04912, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-09, Failure to Establish an Adequate Test Program for the Shutdown Cooling Heat Exchangers] | |||
: (9) Failure To Include The Degraded Voltage Channel Time Delay In TS Surveillance Requirement 3.3.5.2.a | |||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
The inspectors identified a finding having very low safety significance and an associated Non-Cited Violation (NCV) of 10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3), | The inspectors identified a finding having very low safety significance and an associated Non-Cited Violation (NCV) of 10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3), Surveillance Requirements, for the failure to ensure the channel time delay for the degraded-voltage monitor was included in TS SR 3.3.5.2.a. Specifically, the licensee had only included the timing requirements for the voltage sensing relay in the TS SR; failing to include the required time delay after the voltage sensing relay trips before the preferred source of power is isolated and 1E electrical loads transferred to the stand-by EDGs. | ||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
The inspectors noted TS SR 3.3.5.2, Revision 189, requires the licensee to | The inspectors noted TS SR 3.3.5.2, Revision 189, requires the licensee to Perform a CHANNEL CALIBRATION on each Loss of Voltage and Degraded Voltage channel with setpoints: Part a. of SR 3.3.5.2 gives the degraded voltage function setpoint but only gives the time delay associated with the sensing element of the degraded voltage monitor. However, a channel of the degraded voltage monitor contains both the voltage sensing relay and a nominal 6-second delay timer which has to time out before the trip relay actuates and off-site power supply breaker is opened. | ||
The inspectors reviewed an NRC letter to the licensee dated December 22, 1981, with the Subject: SEP Topic VIII-1.A, Potential Equipment Failures Associated With Degraded Grid Voltage. Enclosure 1 to this letter was the NRC staffs Safety Evaluation Report (SER) on degraded grid voltage protection for the Class 1E System. The SER conclusions were based on a detailed review and technical evaluation of the licensees proposed modifications and changes to the Technical Specifications. This SER referenced EG&G Interim Report No. EGG-EA-5321, Revision 3, Degraded Grid Protection for Class 1E Power Systems, Palisades Plant, Docket No. 50-255, TAC No. | |||
10043, Section 3.3, Discussion, Paragraph 3, which states, in part, The time delay selected shall be based on the following conditions: a; The allowable time delay, including margin, shall not exceed the maximum time delay that is assumed in the FSAR accident analysis, and b; The time delay shall minimize the effect of short duration disturbances from reducing the unavailability of the offsite power source(s). Paragraph 4 states, The voltage monitors shall automatically initiate the disconnection of offsite power sources whenever the voltage setpoint and time-delay limits have been exceeded. Paragraph 6 states, The Technical Specifications shall include limiting conditions for operations, surveillance requirements, setpoints with minimum and maximum limits, and allowable values for the second-level voltage protection monitors. | |||
(Note that the degraded voltage setpoint is also known as the second-level voltage relay setpoint.) The total time delay evaluated by EGG was a nominal 6 seconds added to the time for the voltage relay to activate. From these statements, it was clear that a degraded voltage monitor channel consisted of both the voltage sensing relay and the delay timer. | |||
The licensee did not make a change to the custom TS but decided to enter the changes when implementing the standardized Combustion Engineering TS. The inspectors reviewed the Combustion Engineering STS Bases 3.3.7.3, which states, in part, SR 3.3.7.3 is the performance of a CHANNEL CALIBRATION. The CHANNEL CALIBRATION verifies the accuracy of each component within the instrument channel. | |||
Additionally, NRC Regulatory Issue Summary 2011-12, Revision 1, Adequacy of Station Electric Distribution System Voltages, again states, in part, The voltage monitors (or DVRs) shall automatically initiate the disconnection of offsite power source(s) whenever the voltage and time delay limits have been exceeded, and The Technical Specifications shall include Allowable values for second-level voltage protection DVRs. After the inspectors communicated this concern as a non-conservative TS, the licensee initiated condition report CR-PLP-2014-04903, TS SR 3.3.5.2 is Non-Conservative," and implemented administrative controls in accordance with Administrative Letter 98-10 for SR 3.3.5.2 degraded voltage time. The operability evaluation found the diesel generator under voltage start circuitry to be operable DNC | |||
[degraded non-conforming] because the total time delay had been checked and calibrated to within acceptable values. | |||
=====Analysis:===== | =====Analysis:===== | ||
The inspectors determined the failure to incorporate the total time delay in the 2400 V Class 1E bus degraded voltage monitor channel trip setpoints in the Technical Specification surveillance requirements was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3), and was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because if left uncorrected, it would have the potential to lead to more significant safety concern. Specifically, by not incorporating the total time delay requirements into the Technical Specifications, the time could be changed without going through the TS change process, possibly leading to spurious trips of offsite power sources or possibly exceeding the accident analysis time is the FSAR. | The inspectors determined the failure to incorporate the total time delay in the 2400 V Class 1E bus degraded voltage monitor channel trip setpoints in the Technical Specification surveillance requirements was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3), and was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because if left uncorrected, it would have the potential to lead to more significant safety concern. Specifically, by not incorporating the total time delay requirements into the Technical Specifications, the time could be changed without going through the TS change process, possibly leading to spurious trips of offsite power sources or possibly exceeding the accident analysis time is the FSAR. | ||
In accordance with Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, | In accordance with Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Significance Determination Process, Attachment 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings, Table 2 the inspectors determined the finding affected the Initiating Events cornerstone due to the potential to initiate a loss of offsite power. As a result, the inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, Exhibit 1, Initiating Events Screening Questions. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because it did not cause a reactor trip and the loss of mitigation equipment relied upon to transition the plant from the onset of the trip to a stable shutdown condition. | ||
The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding because the finding was not representative of the licensee's present performance. | |||
=====Enforcement:===== | =====Enforcement:===== | ||
Title10 CFR Part 50.36(c) states, Technical Specifications will include minimum surveillance requirements. Title10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3) | Title10 CFR Part 50.36(c) states, Technical Specifications will include minimum surveillance requirements. Title10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3) Surveillance Requirements, states, in part, are requirements relating to test, calibration, or inspection to assure that the necessary quality of systems and components is maintained, that facility operation will be within safety limits, and that the limiting conditions for operation will be met. | ||
Contrary to the above, as of October 9, 2014, the licensee failed to include within TS SR the total time delay for all components in the degraded voltage, which is required to maintain facility operation within safety limits. Specifically, the licensee failed to incorporate the total time delay for all of the components in a channel as required in a CHANNEL CALIBRATION. Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-04903, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-10, Failure To Include The Degraded Voltage Channel Time Delay In TS Surveillance Requirement 3.3.5.2.a]. | |||
: (10) Lack of Analysis for Electrical Containment Penetration Protection | |||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
The inspectors identified an unresolved item (URI) regarding lack of an analysis to demonstrate that circuit breakers and fuses provide adequate protection | The inspectors identified an unresolved item (URI) regarding lack of an analysis to demonstrate that circuit breakers and fuses provide adequate protection against short circuits and overloads for electrical containment penetrations, as discussed in Regulatory Guide 1.63. Resolution of this issue will be based on clarification of Palisades licensing basis by NRC staff. | ||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
As part of the review of power supplies to components inside containment, the inspectors requested to review the analysis that demonstrates protection of the electrical penetrations against short circuits and overloads. The licensee responded that such an analysis does not exist, and stated their position that it is not required by their design and licensing bases | As part of the review of power supplies to components inside containment, the inspectors requested to review the analysis that demonstrates protection of the electrical penetrations against short circuits and overloads. The licensee responded that such an analysis does not exist, and stated their position that it is not required by their design and licensing bases. | ||
(11) Classification of CCW Piping and Components Inside the Reactor Containment Building | Electrical protection of containment penetrations was the subject of the Palisades Systematic Evaluation Program (SEP) Topic VIII-4. A letter from Dennis M. Crutchfield, NRC, to David P. Hoffman, Consumers Power Company, SEP Topic VIII-4, Electrical Penetrations of Reactor Containment, dated March 26, 1981, (ADAMS Accession No. | ||
ML8104080152) included an enclosure entitled Position on Protection of Containment Electrical Penetrations against Failures Caused by Fault and Overload Currents for SEP Plants. This position document states: the staff requires compliance with the recommendations of Regulatory Guide 1.63 or an acceptable alternative method. For each containment electrical penetration, the protective systems provide primary and backup protection devices to prevent a single failure in conjunction with a circuit overload from impairing containment integrity. | |||
The licensee responded in a letter from Robert A. Vincent, Consumers Power Company, to Dennis M. Crutchfield, NRC, SEP Topic VIII-4, Electrical Penetrations of Reactor Containment, dated June 15, 1981, (ADAMS Accession No. ML8106180170), in which they stated: The secondary (backup) interrupt devices () would fail to trip prior to the penetration reaching its limiting temperature of 302° C with the postulated combination of faults and failure of the primary interrupters. The licensee committed to perform more detailed evaluations of the capabilities of the protective devices, as well as An evaluation of the adequacy of the Palisades Plant overcurrent protection surveillance testing program. In the following subsequent letters, the licensee reported on the progress of their further evaluations: Letter from Robert A. Vincent, Consumers Power Company, to Dennis M. Crutchfield, NRC, SEP Topic VIII-4, Electrical Penetrations of the Reactor Containment, dated November 16, 1981, (ADAMS Accession No. | |||
ML8111200805); Letter from Kerry A. Toner, Consumers Power Company, to Dennis M. | |||
Crutchfield, NRC, SEP Topic VIII-4, Electrical Penetrations of the Reactor Containment, dated October 12, 1982, (ADAMS Accession No. ML8210190459); and letter from Kerry A. Toner, Consumers Power Company, to Dennis M. Crutchfield, NRC, SEP Topic VIII-4, Status Update of Program to Evaluate the Adequacy of Penetration Protection from Overload and Short-Circuit Conditions, dated February 11, 1983, (ADAMS Accession No. ML8302240273). | |||
The NRC issued their Integrated Plant Safety Assessment Report on this SEP Topic in Letter from Thomas V. Wambach, NRC, to David J. VandeWalle, Consumers Power Company, Integrated Plant Safety Assessment Report (IPSAR) Section 4.26, Electrical Penetrations of Reactor Containment - Palisades Plant, dated June 10, 1983, (ADAMS Accession No. ML8306160396). This IPSAR stated, The staff has evaluated this issue for other plants and concluded that no further action was required for these plants. | |||
Based upon the information contained in the licensees letters dated June 15, 1981, October 12, 1982, and February 11, 1983, the staff concludes that the design of the Palisades electrical penetrations are similar to other SEP plants, that the probability of electrical failure is low and that any leakage path due to penetration failure would be small. Therefore, we consider this issue to have been completed satisfactorily and further action by the licensee is not required. This conclusion was reiterated in NUREG 0820, Supplement 1, Integrated Plant Safety Assessment, Systematic Evaluation Program, Palisades Plant, Final Report, dated November 1983, (ADAMS Accession No. | |||
ML8311290133). | |||
The inspectors requested that the licensee discuss their lack of an analysis for electrical penetration protection in light of Palisades FSAR Section 8.5.1.2, which states: 10 CFR Part 50, General Design Criterion 50, as implemented by Regulatory Guide 1.63 and IEEE Standard 317-1972, requires that electrical penetrations be designed so that the containment structure can accommodate, without exceeding the design leakage rate, the calculated pressure, temperature and other environmental conditions resulting from any Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA). The licensee responded by initiating corrective action CR-PLP-2014-04450, which states the licensees position that Palisades is not committed to the electrical circuit protection requirements of Regulatory Guide 1.63. | |||
Due to complexity of establishing the appropriate design and licensing bases for this issue, the concern will be resolved using the NRCs Task Interface Agreement (TIA)process. Pending resolution, this item will be tracked as an unresolved item. [URI 05000255/2014008-05, Lack of Analysis for Electrical Containment Penetration Protection]. | |||
: (11) Classification of CCW Piping and Components Inside the Reactor Containment Building | |||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
The inspectors identified an unresolved issue (URI) regarding the Inservice Inspection (ISI) classification of component cooling water (CCW) piping and components inside the reactor containment building. This piping is currently classified as non-safety-related. Resolution of this issue will be based on clarification of | The inspectors identified an unresolved issue (URI) regarding the Inservice Inspection (ISI) classification of component cooling water (CCW) piping and components inside the reactor containment building. This piping is currently classified as non-safety-related. Resolution of this issue will be based on clarification of Palisades licensing basis by NRC staff. | ||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
The inspectors reviewed SEP-ISI-PLP-002, ASME Code Boundaries for ASME Section XI Inservice Inspection Program, Revision 1. The purpose of this document was to establish classifications to ensure the proper scope of ASME Section XI system pressure tests, ASME Section V nondestructive examinations, ASME Section XI inspection of component supports, and ASME Section XI repairs, replacements and modifications. This program document stated that guidance for Class 2, 3, and non-safety-related components is found in Regulatory Guide 1.26. The program referred to a set of color-coded P&IDs. The inspectors noted the CCW piping and components inside the reactor containment building were identified as non-safety-related on the color-coded P&IDs. The team also observed that Attachment 1 of SEP-ISI-PLP-002 (page 45 of 75) identified the piping from the containment penetrations to the single containment isolation valve outside containment as class 2 (check valve CK-CC910 for penetration MZ-14, air-operated valve CV-0911 for penetration MZ-15). This attachment referred to note H, which stated, in part: All containment penetration assemblies in Class 2, Class 3, and non-class piping will be considered ASME Class 2 out to the second isolation valve where applicable. In some cases, there is single isolation (e.g., MSS, FWS) | The inspectors reviewed SEP-ISI-PLP-002, ASME Code Boundaries for ASME Section XI Inservice Inspection Program, Revision 1. The purpose of this document was to establish classifications to ensure the proper scope of ASME Section XI system pressure tests, ASME Section V nondestructive examinations, ASME Section XI inspection of component supports, and ASME Section XI repairs, replacements and modifications. This program document stated that guidance for Class 2, 3, and non-safety-related components is found in Regulatory Guide 1.26. The program referred to a set of color-coded P&IDs. | ||
The inspectors noted the CCW piping and components inside the reactor containment building were identified as non-safety-related on the color-coded P&IDs. The team also observed that Attachment 1 of SEP-ISI-PLP-002 (page 45 of 75) identified the piping from the containment penetrations to the single containment isolation valve outside containment as class 2 (check valve CK-CC910 for penetration MZ-14, air-operated valve CV-0911 for penetration MZ-15). This attachment referred to note H, which stated, in part: | |||
All containment penetration assemblies in Class 2, Class 3, and non-class piping will be considered ASME Class 2 out to the second isolation valve where applicable. In some cases, there is single isolation (e.g., MSS, FWS) Where a Class 3 system penetrates containment, that portion will be considered Class 2 and treated as such (ie, ASME Section XI Interpretation BC84-603). The basis for classification of containment penetrations is contained in EGAD-EP-12, Mechanical Containment Penetrations Basis Program. | |||
The current Mechanical Containment Penetrations Basis document was SEP-APJ-PLP-101, Revision 0. This document included a similar description for CCW penetrations MZ-14 and MZ-15. It stated that FSAR Table 5.8-4 classifies these penetrations as class C1. The FSAR table also identified these penetrations as Class C1 and indicated that they are not subject to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix J testing requirements. The FSAR Section 6.7 included a description of Class C1 penetrations, it stated, in part: | |||
Penetrations in this class include those systems that are not connected to either the containment atmosphere or to the Primary Coolant System and are normally open or may be opened during power operation. These lines are protected from missiles originating inside the containment and the lines themselves form the boundary of the containment. One remote manually operated valve, locked closed manual valve or automatic isolation valve is provided in each line. Check valves are considered automatic. | |||
In SEP-APJ-PLP-101 also stated, that both Penetrations MZ-14 and MZ-15 were originally classified as C2 (closed system outside containment per FSAR Section 6.7),until FSAR Revision 22. These were reclassified by SDR-99-0884, dated July 22, 1999. | |||
The basis for these changes included an evaluation that determined CCW piping inside containment would not be damaged by internal missiles (as addressed by NRCs evaluation of SEP Topic III-4,c, dated September 21, 1981), and the classification of CCW as a closed system inside containment. The associated 10 CFR 50.59 evaluation determined that NRC approval was not required for these changes. | |||
The inspection team raised questions regarding the licensing basis classification of the CCW system inside containment: | |||
===1. FSAR Section 6.9 stated that Regulatory Guide 1.26 was used to select ASME=== | |||
Classes 2 and 3 systems and components for coverage by the inspection plan. | |||
Regulatory Guide 1.26, stated in part: | |||
The Quality Group C standards given in Table 1 of this guide should be applied to water-, steam-, and radioactive-waste-containing pressure vessels; heat exchangers (other than turbines and condensers); storage tanks; piping; pumps; and valves that are not part of the reactor coolant pressure boundary or included in Quality Group B but part of the following: | |||
: (b) cooling water and seal water systems or portions of those systems important to safety that are designed for the functioning of components and systems important to safety, such as reactor coolant pumps, diesels, and the control room The classification of the CCW system inside containment did not appear to be consistent with the guidance of Regulatory Guide 1.26. In addition, industry guidance provided by ANSI/ANS 51.1 - 1983 indicated that closed systems inside containment (with single active isolation valves) should be class 2 or class 3. | |||
===2. FSAR Section 6.7 addressed class C1 containment penetrations stating, These=== | |||
lines are protected from missiles originating inside the containment and the lines themselves form the boundary of the containment. The inspectors questioned whether it was appropriate to classify a portion of the containment boundary as non-safety-related for the purpose of inspection, testing, and repairs. | |||
The licensee has stated that the CCW system classification is in accordance with their current licensing basis. This position is primarily based on the NRCs evaluation of SEP Topic III-4,c, dated September 21, 1981, the CCW system being protected from internal missiles, and seismic events not being postulated to occur coincidently with a LOCA. | |||
Resolution of this issue will be based on clarification of Palisades licensing basis. | |||
Pending resolution, this item will be tracked as an URI. [URI 05000255/2014008-11, Classification of CCW Piping and Components Inside the Reactor Containment Building.] | |||
: (12) Component Cooling Water System Licensing Bases | |||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
Line 281: | Line 522: | ||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
As part of the 2014 Component Design Bases Inspection (CDBI), the inspectors selected CCW pump P-52B and relief valve RV-0956 for review. Both of these components were part of the CCW system. The CCW system was designed as a closed cycle system, where both trains share a common suction and common discharge header. This means that although there were redundant pumps and heat exchangers, the system's piping was not designed to be redundant and a single pipe break or failure of the pressure boundary could result in the complete loss of CCW. One of CCW's safety functions was to transfer heat from the reactor and containment (post-Design Bases Events/Accidents) to the ultimate heat sink. Another important safety function for CCW was to provide cooling to the Engineered Safeguard Systems' (ESS) and containment spray (CS) pumps. Per the | As part of the 2014 Component Design Bases Inspection (CDBI), the inspectors selected CCW pump P-52B and relief valve RV-0956 for review. Both of these components were part of the CCW system. The CCW system was designed as a closed cycle system, where both trains share a common suction and common discharge header. This means that although there were redundant pumps and heat exchangers, the system's piping was not designed to be redundant and a single pipe break or failure of the pressure boundary could result in the complete loss of CCW. One of CCW's safety functions was to transfer heat from the reactor and containment (post-Design Bases Events/Accidents) to the ultimate heat sink. Another important safety function for CCW was to provide cooling to the Engineered Safeguard Systems' (ESS) and containment spray (CS) pumps. Per the licensees design bases, cooling to the ESS pumps was required to maintain their operability. | ||
When reviewing the licensing bases for the plant, it was not clear what type of failures needed to postulated for the CCW system under post-accident conditions. The licensee's position was postulating a passive failure of CCW concurrent with a design bases accident (DBA) was not within their licensing bases. The licensee's position was that no active single failure, according to their definition in FSAR Section 1.4.16, would render CCW inoperable. They also considered a postulated failure of the non-safety-related portion of the CCW system inside containment as beyond design bases, except as result of a seismic event which was not postulated to occur in conjunction with an accident. | |||
Currently, the licensee credits post-accident heat being removed from containment by a combination of containment air coolers (CAC) and the containment spray (CS) system. | |||
The CAC are supplied by service water and are independent of the CCW system. Per the current design, the licensee needs either two CS pumps or one CS pump and three CACs. Both alternatives require the CCW system to remove heat from the CS system. | |||
However, the original design took credit for the CS and the CAC as independent and redundant in their capability to remove heat from the containment. In other words, originally the licensee needed either two CS pumps or three CACs. Additionally, the original design allowed for the capability to swap cooling water to the ESS pumps from CCW to service water remotely from the main control room (MCR). Both of these design flexibilities have been either lost or eliminated due to subsequent design changes. | |||
The inspectors noted the agency staff had previously evaluated the susceptibility of CCW to loss of function following certain assumed CCW pipe breaks during the Systematic Evaluation Program(SEP). This was documented on SEP Topic IX-3, Station Service and Cooling Water Systems Palisades, February 22, 1982. The agency staff had concluded the CCW design was not in conformance with GDC 44, regarding capability and redundancy of essential functions of the system. However, the staff noted the essential functions of CCW could be performed by other systems under all operating conditions. The SEP evaluation explicitly addressed a passive failure of the CCW system under post-accident conditions and concluded that the CACs would be capable of removing heat from containment. | |||
The inspectors were concerned that if the CCW system became inoperable as the result of non-safety-related component failures, the plant would no longer have the redundant capability to remove heat from the containment during a DBA, or provide alternate cooling to the ESS pumps from the MCR. In addition, the inspectors needed to clarify the licensing bases regarding a postulated loss of CCW concurrent with a design bases accident. | |||
This issue is unresolved pending further inspection to determine when these changes to the licensing bases occurred. [URI 05000255/2014008-12, Component Cooling Water System Licensing Bases] | This issue is unresolved pending further inspection to determine when these changes to the licensing bases occurred. [URI 05000255/2014008-12, Component Cooling Water System Licensing Bases] | ||
Line 292: | Line 541: | ||
====a. Inspection Scope==== | ====a. Inspection Scope==== | ||
The inspectors reviewed six operating experience issues to ensure that NRC generic concerns had been adequately evaluated and addressed by the licensee. The operating experience issues listed below were reviewed as part of this inspection: | The inspectors reviewed six operating experience issues to ensure that NRC generic concerns had been adequately evaluated and addressed by the licensee. The operating experience issues listed below were reviewed as part of this inspection: | ||
* Information Notice 1988-45, Problems in Protective Relay and Circuit Breaker Coordination; | |||
* Information Notice 2010-09, Importance of Understanding Circuit Breaker Control Panel Indications; | |||
* Information Notice 2010- 11, Potential for Steam Voiding Causing Residual Heat Removal System Inoperability; | |||
* Regulatory Issue Summary 2013-05, NRC Position On The Relationship Between General Design Criteria and Technical Specification Operability; | |||
* NRC-21-2013-60-00 and -01, K-Line Circuit Breaker Primary Close Latch; and | |||
* IER-L4-13-54, Unprotected DC Ammeters Result in Unanalyzed Condition. | |||
====b. Findings==== | ====b. Findings==== | ||
Line 301: | Line 556: | ||
====a. Inspection Scope==== | ====a. Inspection Scope==== | ||
The inspectors reviewed one permanent plant modification related to selected risk significant components to verify that the design bases, licensing bases, and performance capability of the components had not been degraded through modifications. The modification listed below was reviewed as part of this inspection effort: | The inspectors reviewed one permanent plant modification related to selected risk significant components to verify that the design bases, licensing bases, and performance capability of the components had not been degraded through modifications. The modification listed below was reviewed as part of this inspection effort: | ||
FC-718,RAS Logic Seal-In Circuit Addition; | * FC-718,RAS Logic Seal-In Circuit Addition; | ||
====b. Findings==== | ====b. Findings==== | ||
Line 309: | Line 564: | ||
====a. Inspection Scope==== | ====a. Inspection Scope==== | ||
The inspectors performed a detailed review of the operator actions and the procedures listed below associated with the selected components and associated with risk important operator actions. For the procedures listed, simulator scenarios were observed as applicable, and in-plant actions were walked down with a non-licensed operator or a licensed operator as appropriate. These activities were performed to determine whether there was sufficient information to perform the procedure, whether the steps could reasonably be performed in the available time, and whether the necessary tools and equipment were available. The procedures were compared to FSAR and design assumptions. In addition, the procedures were reviewed to ensure the procedure steps would accomplish the desired results. The following Time Critical Operator Actions (TCAs) and accidents were reviewed: | The inspectors performed a detailed review of the operator actions and the procedures listed below associated with the selected components and associated with risk important operator actions. For the procedures listed, simulator scenarios were observed as applicable, and in-plant actions were walked down with a non-licensed operator or a licensed operator as appropriate. These activities were performed to determine whether there was sufficient information to perform the procedure, whether the steps could reasonably be performed in the available time, and whether the necessary tools and equipment were available. The procedures were compared to FSAR and design assumptions. In addition, the procedures were reviewed to ensure the procedure steps would accomplish the desired results. | ||
The following Time Critical Operator Actions (TCAs) and accidents were reviewed: | |||
* TCA 1: Enable Closure of the ESS recirculation valves on RAS, | |||
* TCA 6: Align hot leg injection, | |||
* TCA 44: Switch CR HVAC to Emergency Mode, | |||
* TCA 47: ESS Suction Header Cross-Tie, | |||
* Large Break Loss of Coolant Accident (LBLOCA), | |||
* Mode 4 Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA). | |||
The following procedures were reviewed: | |||
* Administrative Procedure TCA, Control of Time Critical Operator Actions, Revision 3; | |||
* Emergency Operating Procedure Basis EOP TCA, EOP Time Critical Operator Action Basis, Revision 0; | |||
* Emergency Operating Procedure EOP-4.0, Loss of Coolant Accident Recovery, Revision 23; | |||
* Emergency Operating Procedure Supplement 42, Pre and Post RAS Actions, Revision 7 | |||
* Abnormal Operating Procedure AOP-30, Loss of Shutdown Cooling, Revision 1. | |||
====b. Findings==== | ====b. Findings==== | ||
Line 321: | Line 591: | ||
====a. Inspection Scope==== | ====a. Inspection Scope==== | ||
The inspectors reviewed a sample of the selected component problems that were identified by the licensee and entered into the Corrective Action Program. The inspectors reviewed these issues to verify an appropriate threshold for identifying issues and to evaluate the effectiveness of corrective actions related to design issues. In addition, corrective action documents written on issues identified during the inspection were reviewed to verify adequate problem identification and incorporation of the problem into the Corrective Action Program. The specific corrective action documents that were sampled and reviewed by the inspectors are listed in the attachment to this report. The inspectors also selected six issues that were identified during previous CDBIs to verify the concern was adequately evaluated and corrective actions were identified and implemented to resolve the concern, as necessary. The following issues were reviewed: | The inspectors reviewed a sample of the selected component problems that were identified by the licensee and entered into the Corrective Action Program. The inspectors reviewed these issues to verify an appropriate threshold for identifying issues and to evaluate the effectiveness of corrective actions related to design issues. In addition, corrective action documents written on issues identified during the inspection were reviewed to verify adequate problem identification and incorporation of the problem into the Corrective Action Program. The specific corrective action documents that were sampled and reviewed by the inspectors are listed in the attachment to this report. | ||
The inspectors also selected six issues that were identified during previous CDBIs to verify the concern was adequately evaluated and corrective actions were identified and implemented to resolve the concern, as necessary. The following issues were reviewed: | |||
* NCV 05000255/2006009-08, Emergency Diesel Generator Fuel Transfer System Temperature Ratings; | |||
* NCV 05000255/2006009-10, Potential for Safety Injection and Refueling Water Tank Level Switch Setpoints to be Outside Technical Specification Limit; | |||
* NCV 05000255/2008009-01, Inadequate Analysis of Emergency Diesel Generator 1-2 Loading During Design Basis Events; | |||
* NCV 05000255/2008009-02, Failure to Establish Correct Technical Specification Limits; | |||
* NCV 05000255/2011009-01, Failure to Adequately Evaluate the Enclosure Installed Over the 1F/1G Buses; and | |||
* NCV 05000255/2011009-03, Procedures Were Not Appropriate To Address Gas Accumulation Issues | |||
====b. Findings==== | ====b. Findings==== | ||
(1) Non-Conservative Surveillance for Emergency Diesel Generator Largest Load Reject Test | : (1) Non-Conservative Surveillance for Emergency Diesel Generator Largest Load Reject Test | ||
=====Introduction:===== | =====Introduction:===== | ||
A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, | A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, was identified by the inspectors for the licensees failure to have adequate acceptance criteria in the emergency diesel generator surveillance procedures. Specifically, the licensee failed to ensure the surveillance test procedures for the emergency diesel generator largest load reject test bounded the power demand of the largest load, as required by Technical Specification SR 3.8.1.5 based upon full load reject testing. | ||
=====Description:===== | =====Description:===== | ||
Palisades Technical Specification Surveillance Requirement SR 3.8.1.5 requires verification of the emergency diesel generator response following rejection of | Palisades Technical Specification Surveillance Requirement SR 3.8.1.5 requires verification of the emergency diesel generator response following rejection of a load greater than or equal to its associated single largest post-accident load. On June 20, 2013, the licensee issued Technical Specification Surveillance Procedure RE-132, Diesel Generator 1-2 Load Reject, Revision 6. This procedure specifies, in Step 5.3.11, that the emergency diesel generator be loaded to 325 to 375 kw in preparation for the load reject test. On August 6, 2014, the licensee issued calculation EA-ELEC-LDTAB-005, Emergency Diesel Generators 1-1 and 1-2 Steady State Loadings, Revision 10, which includes documentation of the magnitudes of the emergency diesel generator loads. The inspectors asked the licensee to compare the calculation data with the procedure criterion for a minimum test load of 325kW. The licensee concluded that, according to the calculation, the largest single emergency diesel generator load is High Pressure Safety Injection Pump P-66A, which has a power demand of 360.25kW. Thus, surveillance Procedure RE-132 allows an emergency diesel generator load test value (325kW) that does not bound the magnitude of the generators single largest load (360.25kW). | ||
The licensee entered this issue into their Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4679 and CR-PLP-2014-4680 for Emergency Diesel Generators 1-1 and 1-2, respectively, with recommended actions to revise the surveillance procedure minimum load limit for the load reject test to bound the magnitudes of the single largest loads. The licensee also verified current operability by confirming the emergency diesel generators are capable of performing as required by SR 3.8.1.5. | |||
=====Analysis:===== | =====Analysis:===== | ||
The inspectors determined the failure to have adequate acceptance criteria in the emergency diesel generator surveillance procedure was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, | The inspectors determined the failure to have adequate acceptance criteria in the emergency diesel generator surveillance procedure was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, and was a performance deficiency. The finding was determined to be more than minor because the finding was associated with the Procedure Quality attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, the surveillance procedure error could result in acceptance of test results that did not satisfy Technical Specification SR 3.8.1.5 for rejection of a load greater than or equal to the emergency diesel generators single largest post-accident load. | ||
The inspectors assessed this finding for significance in accordance with NRC Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, Exhibit 2, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, and determined that it was of very low safety significance (Green),because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality. This finding has a cross-cutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Resources component, because the licensee did not ensure that personnel, equipment, procedures, and other resources are adequate to assure nuclear safety by maintaining long term plant safety. [H.1] | |||
=====Enforcement:===== | =====Enforcement:===== | ||
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, | Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, requires, in part, A test program shall be established to assure that all testing required to demonstrate that structures, systems, and components will perform satisfactorily in service is identified and performed in accordance with written test procedures which incorporate the requirements and acceptance limits contained in applicable design documents. Contrary to the above, on June 20, 2013, the licensee failed to assure that written test procedures incorporate requirements contained in applicable design documents. Specifically, the licensee revised Technical Specification Surveillance Procedure RE-132, Diesel Generator 1-2 Load Reject, but failed to identify that the specified kW level for the largest load rejection test did not bound the largest predicted post-accident load. | ||
Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4679 and CR-PLP-2014-4680, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-13, Non-Conservative Surveillance for Emergency Diesel Generator Largest Load Reject Test.] | |||
{{a|4OA5}} | {{a|4OA5}} | ||
==4OA5 Other Activities== | ==4OA5 Other Activities== | ||
===.1 (Closed) Unresolved Item (URI) 05000255/2012005-05:=== | ===.1 (Closed) Unresolved Item (URI) 05000255/2012005-05: Concerns With The=== | ||
Methodology Used To Determine Suction Side Void Acceptance Criteria On January 11, 2008, the NRC requested each addressee of GL 2008-01 to evaluate its emergency core cooling, decay heat removal, and containment spray systems licensing basis, design, testing, and corrective actions to ensure gas accumulation was maintained less than the amount which would challenge the operability of these systems, and take appropriate actions when conditions adverse to quality were identified. In order to determine what amount of gas could challenge the operability of the subject systems, the licensee needed to develop appropriate acceptance criteria for evaluating identified voids. As part of this effort, the licensee developed acceptance criteria for evaluating voids identified in the suction side of the subject systems pumps. | |||
During subsequent inspections the inspectors identified a concern with the methodology used by the licensee to develop acceptance criteria for suction side voids. At the time of the inspection the acceptance criteria was inconsistent with the 0.5-second criterion recommended by the Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation (NRR) in TI 2515/177 Inspection Guidance (ML111660749). The NRR-recommended methodology was more conservative because it ensured there were no significant deviations exceeding the maximum recommended void fractions. However, because the licensees methodology averaged over the entire transient duration time, it allowed void volumes that could significantly exceed the recommended void fraction when the actual duration transient time was shorter than the maximum allowable duration time specified by the recommended void fraction acceptance criteria. This issue was originally captured in the licensees CAP as CR-HQN-2011-00853. | |||
Since then, and as result of other void related violations, the licensee revised their procedures including their Gas Accumulation Management Program Document (EN-DC-219, Revision 3). The revised Program Document incorporates, by reference, the Acceptance Criteria of NEI 09-10, "Guidelines for Effective Prevention and Management of System Gas Accumulation." The NRC has issued a Safety Evaluation (SE) of the NEI 09-10, which discusses the Agency's position in regards to the use of NEI 09-10. In addition, based on the information discussed in the NEI 09-10 and the SE, the 0.5 second criterion discussed in the URI is no longer the recommended method proposed by NRR. Therefore, the inspectors concern is no longer valid, and no performance deficiency or violation of regulatory requirements exists. This unresolved item is closed. | |||
{{a|4OA6}} | {{a|4OA6}} | ||
==4OA6 Management Meeting(s)== | ==4OA6 Management Meeting(s)== | ||
===.1 Exit Meeting Summary On November 4, 2014, the inspectors presented the inspection results to Mr. Vitale, and other members of the licensee staff. | ===.1 Exit Meeting Summary=== | ||
The licensee acknowledged the issues presented. The inspectors asked the licensee if the inspectors had proprietary materials that should be returned. The inspectors verified that no proprietary information was retained by the inspectors or documented in this report. | |||
On November 4, 2014, the inspectors presented the inspection results to Mr. Vitale, and other members of the licensee staff. The licensee acknowledged the issues presented. | |||
The inspectors asked the licensee if the inspectors had proprietary materials that should be returned. The inspectors verified that no proprietary information was retained by the inspectors or documented in this report. | |||
===.2 Followup Exit Meeting Summary=== | |||
On November 4, 2014, the inspectors conducted a follow-up exit by phone with Mr. | |||
Vitale, and other members of the licensee staff. This meeting updated the status of two concerns that were open at the time of the on-site exit. The licensee acknowledged the issues presented. | |||
{{a|4OA7}} | {{a|4OA7}} | ||
==4OA7 Licensee-Identified Violations The following violation of very low safety significance (Green) was identified by the licensee and is a violation of NRC requirements which meets the criteria of the NRC Enforcement Policy, for being dispositioned as a Non-Cited Violation. | ==4OA7 Licensee-Identified Violations== | ||
Technical Specification 5.4.1.a, requires written procedures shall be established, implemented, and maintained as recommended in Regulatory Guide 1.33, Item (b), Administrative Procedures implementing the | |||
The following violation of very low safety significance (Green) was identified by the licensee and is a violation of NRC requirements which meets the criteria of the NRC Enforcement Policy, for being dispositioned as a Non-Cited Violation. | |||
* Technical Specification 5.4.1.a, requires written procedures shall be established, implemented, and maintained as recommended in Regulatory Guide 1.33, Item (b), Administrative Procedures implementing the Authorities and Responsibilities for Safe Operation and Shutdown. Procedure 4.48, Revision 3, Control of Time Critical Operator Actions. Requires that Time Critical Operator Actions (TCAs)revalidated every two years. Contrary to the above, on July 23, 2014, the licensee found no evidence that TCA revalidation was performed since 2011. | |||
The licensee determined timing information could not be found for the following TCA validations: | |||
* TCA 2: Match PCS and S/G Pressure during a SGTR Event, | |||
* TCA 10: Align Shutdown Cooling (SDC), and | |||
* TCA 46: Station Battery Load Stripping. | |||
This issue was determined to be more than minor, because it impacted the Procedure Quality attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. The licensee documented this issue in CR-PLP-2014-03841, dated July 23, 2014. The finding was determined to be of very low safety significance (Green) because all questions were answered no for Exhibit 2 - Mitigating Systems Screening Questions in Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Appendix A, Significance Determination Process (SDP) For Findings At-Power. | |||
ATTACHMENT: | |||
=SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION= | =SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION= | ||
==KEY POINTS OF CONTACT== | ==KEY POINTS OF CONTACT== | ||
Licensee | |||
: [[contact::T. Vitale]], Site Vice President | Licensee | ||
: [[contact::T. Williams]], General Manager, Plant Operations | : [[contact::T. Vitale]], Site Vice President | ||
: [[contact::B. Davis]], Engineering Director | : [[contact::T. Williams]], General Manager, Plant Operations | ||
: [[contact::D. Corbin]], Operations Manager | : [[contact::B. Davis]], Engineering Director | ||
: [[contact::J. Borah]], System Engineering Manager | : [[contact::D. Corbin]], Operations Manager | ||
: [[contact::K. | : [[contact::J. Borah]], System Engineering Manager | ||
: [[contact::J. Hardy]], Regulatory Assurance Manager | : [[contact::K. OConnor]], Design Engineering Manager | ||
: [[contact::B. Sova]], Engineering Supervisor | : [[contact::J. Hardy]], Regulatory Assurance Manager | ||
: [[contact::T. Fouty]], Engineering Supervisor | : [[contact::B. Sova]], Engineering Supervisor | ||
: [[contact::L. Engelke]], Engineering Supervisor | : [[contact::T. Fouty]], Engineering Supervisor | ||
: [[contact::K. Yeager]], Engineering Supervisor | : [[contact::L. Engelke]], Engineering Supervisor | ||
: [[contact::D. MacMaster]], Engineering Supervisor | : [[contact::K. Yeager]], Engineering Supervisor | ||
: [[contact::R. Scudder]], Operations Specialist | : [[contact::D. MacMaster]], Engineering Supervisor | ||
: [[contact::B. Dotson]], Regulatory Assurance Specialist | : [[contact::R. Scudder]], Operations Specialist | ||
: [[contact::T. Davis]], Regulatory Assurance Specialist U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission | : [[contact::B. Dotson]], Regulatory Assurance Specialist | ||
: [[contact::T. Davis]], Regulatory Assurance Specialist | |||
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission | |||
==LIST OF ITEMS OPENED, CLOSED, AND DISCUSSED== | ==LIST OF ITEMS OPENED, CLOSED, AND DISCUSSED== | ||
===Opened=== | ===Opened=== | ||
: 05000255/2014008-01 NCV Failure to Ensure Engineered Safeguards Systems | : 05000255/2014008-01 NCV Failure to Ensure Engineered Safeguards Systems Arent Adversely Affected By Air Entrainment (Section 1R21.3.b(1)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-02 NCV Undersized Supply Cables from Startup Transformer to 2400V Buses (Section 1R21.3.b(2)) | : 05000255/2014008-02 NCV Undersized Supply Cables from Startup Transformer to 2400V Buses (Section 1R21.3.b(2)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-03 NCV Undersized Motors (Section 1R21.3.b(3)) | : 05000255/2014008-03 NCV Undersized Motors (Section 1R21.3.b(3)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-04 NCV Failure to Ensure that 480V System Voltages do not Exceed Equipment Ratings (Section 1R21.3.b(4)) | : 05000255/2014008-04 NCV Failure to Ensure that 480V System Voltages do not Exceed Equipment Ratings (Section 1R21.3.b(4)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-05 NCV Failure to Perform Comprehensive Pump Testing of Containment Spray Pump P-54A in accordance with the Inservice Testing Program (Section 1R21.3.b(5)) | : 05000255/2014008-05 NCV Failure to Perform Comprehensive Pump Testing of Containment Spray Pump P-54A in accordance with the Inservice Testing Program (Section 1R21.3.b(5)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-06 NCV Failure to Correctly Translate Valve Leakage Limits into Test Procedure (Section 1R21.3.b(6)) | : 05000255/2014008-06 NCV Failure to Correctly Translate Valve Leakage Limits into Test Procedure (Section 1R21.3.b(6)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-07 NCV Failure to Identify Non-Safety-Related Sub-Components Improperly Supplied with Safety-Related Valves (Section 1R21.3.b(7)) | : 05000255/2014008-07 NCV Failure to Identify Non-Safety-Related Sub-Components Improperly Supplied with Safety-Related Valves (Section 1R21.3.b(7)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-08 NCV Failure to Establish an Adequate Test Program for the Shutdown Cooling Heat Exchangers (Section 1R21.3.b(8)) | : 05000255/2014008-08 NCV Failure to Establish an Adequate Test Program for the Shutdown Cooling Heat Exchangers (Section 1R21.3.b(8)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-09 NCV Failure To Include The Degraded Voltage Channel Time Delay In TS Surveillance Requirement 3.3.5.2.a (Section 1R21.3.b(9)) | Attachment | ||
: 05000255/2014008-10 URI Lack of Analysis for Electrical Containment Penetration Protection (Section 1R21.3.b(10)) | : 05000255/2014008-09 NCV Failure To Include The Degraded Voltage Channel Time Delay In TS Surveillance Requirement 3.3.5.2.a (Section 1R21.3.b(9)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-11 URI Classification of CCW Piping and Components Inside the Reactor Containment Building (Section 1R21.3.b(11)) | : 05000255/2014008-10 URI Lack of Analysis for Electrical Containment Penetration Protection (Section 1R21.3.b(10)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-12 URI Component Cooling Water System Licensing Bases (Section 1R21.3.b(12)) | : 05000255/2014008-11 URI Classification of CCW Piping and Components Inside the Reactor Containment Building (Section 1R21.3.b(11)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-13 NCV Non-Conservative Surveillance for Emergency Diesel Generator Largest Load Reject Test (Section 4OA2.1.b(1)) | : 05000255/2014008-12 URI Component Cooling Water System Licensing Bases (Section 1R21.3.b(12)) | ||
: 05000255/2014008-13 NCV Non-Conservative Surveillance for Emergency Diesel Generator Largest Load Reject Test (Section 4OA2.1.b(1)) | |||
===Closed=== | ===Closed=== | ||
: 05000255/2014008-01 NCV Failure to Ensure Engineered Safeguards Systems Arent Adversely Affected By Air Entrainment (Section 1R21.3.b(1)) | |||
: 05000255/2014008-02 NCV Undersized Supply Cables from Startup Transformer to 2400V Buses (Section 1R21.3.b(2)) | |||
: 05000255/2014008-03 NCV Undersized Motors (Section 1R21.3.b(3)) | |||
: 05000255/2014008-04 NCV Failure to Ensure that 480V System Voltages do not Exceed Equipment Ratings (Section 1R21.3.b(4)) | |||
: 05000255/2014008-06 NCV Failure to Perform Comprehensive Pump Testing of Containment Spray Pump P-54A in accordance with the Inservice Testing Program (Section 1R21.3.b(6)) | |||
: 05000255/2014008-07 NCV Failure to Correctly Translate Valve Leakage Limits into Test Procedure (Section 1R21.3.b(7)) | |||
: 05000255/2014008-08 NCV Failure to Identify Non-Safety-Related Sub-Components Improperly Supplied with Safety-Related Valves (Section 1R21.3.b(8)) | |||
: 05000255/2014008-09 NCV Failure to Establish an Adequate Test Program for the Shutdown Cooling Heat Exchangers (Section 1R21.3.b(9)) | |||
: 05000255/2014008-10 NCV Failure To Include The Degraded Voltage Channel Time Delay In TS Surveillance Requirement 3.3.5.2.a (Section 1R21.3.b(10)) | |||
: 05000255/2014008-13 NCV Non-Conservative Surveillance for Emergency Diesel Generator Largest Load Reject Test (Section 4OA2.1.b(1)) | |||
: 05000255/2012005-05 URI Concerns With The Methodology Used To Determine Suction Side Void Acceptance Criteria (Section 4OA5.1) | |||
===Discussed=== | ===Discussed=== | ||
None | |||
None | |||
==LIST OF DOCUMENTS REVIEWED== | ==LIST OF DOCUMENTS REVIEWED== | ||
}} | }} |
Latest revision as of 07:13, 20 December 2019
ML14338A848 | |
Person / Time | |
---|---|
Site: | Palisades |
Issue date: | 12/02/2014 |
From: | Ann Marie Stone NRC/RGN-III/DRS/EB2 |
To: | Vitale A Entergy Nuclear Operations |
Stuart Sheldon | |
References | |
IR 2014008 | |
Download: ML14338A848 (62) | |
Text
UNITED STATES mber 2, 2014
SUBJECT:
PALISADES NUCLEAR PLANT COMPONENT DESIGN BASES INSPECTION 05000255/2014008
Dear Mr. Vitale:
On November 4, 2014, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) completed a Component Design Bases Inspection (CDBI) inspection at your Palisades Nuclear Plant.
The enclosed report documents the results of this inspection, which were discussed on November 4, 2014, with you, and other members of your staff.
Based on the results of this inspection, ten NRC-identified findings of very low safety significance were identified. The findings involved violations of NRC requirements. However, because of their very low safety significance, and because the issues were entered into your Corrective Action Program, the NRC is treating the issues as Non-Cited Violations (NCVs)
in accordance with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. Additionally, one licensee-identified violation is listed in Section 4OA7 of this report.
If you contest the subject or severity of these NCVs, you should provide a response within 30 days of the date of this inspection report, with the basis for your denial, to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, ATTN: Document Control Desk, Washington, DC 20555-0001, with a copy to the Regional Administrator, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission - Region III, 2443 Warrenville Road, Suite 210, Lisle, IL 60532-4352; the Director, Office of Enforcement, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001; and the Resident Inspector Office at the Palisades Nuclear Plant. In addition, if you disagree with the cross-cutting aspect assigned to any finding in this report, you should provide a response within 30 days of the date of this inspection report, with the basis for your disagreement, to the Regional Administrator, Region III, and the NRC Resident Inspector at the Palisades Nuclear Plant. In accordance with Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) "Rules of Practice," a copy of this letter and its enclosure a copy of this letter, its enclosure, and your response (if any), will be available electronically for public inspection in the NRC Public Document Room or from the Publicly Available Records System (PARS) component of NRC's Agencywide Documents Access and Management System (ADAMS), accessible from the NRC Web site at http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/adams.html (the Public Electronic Reading Room).
Sincerely,
/RA/
Ann Marie Stone, Chief Engineering Branch 2 Division of Reactor Safety Docket No. 50-255 License No. DPR-20
Enclosure:
Inspection Report 05000255/2014008 w/Attachment: Supplemental Information
REGION III==
Docket No: 50-255 License No: DPR-20 Report No: 05000255/2014008 Licensee: Entergy Nuclear Operations, Inc.
Facility: Palisades Nuclear Plant Location: Covert, MI Dates: September 8, 2014 through November 4, 2014 Inspectors: S. Sheldon, Senior Engineering Inspector, Lead J. Corujo-Sandin, Engineering Inspector, Mechanical C. Brown, Engineering Inspector, Electrical C. Zoia, Operations Engineer L. Rodriguez, Engineering Inspector, Observer H. Leake, Electrical Contractor C. Baron, Mechanical Contractor Approved by: Ann Marie Stone, Chief Engineering Branch 2 Division of Reactor Safety Enclosure
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
Inspection Report 05000255/2014008, 9/8/2014 - 11/4/2014, Palisades Nuclear Plant
Component Design Bases Inspection (CDBI).
The inspection was a 3-week onsite baseline inspection that focused on the design of components. The inspection was conducted by regional engineering inspectors and two consultants. Ten Green findings were identified by the inspectors. The findings were considered Non-Cited Violations (NCVs) of NRC regulations. The significance of inspection findings is indicated by their color (i.e., greater than Green, or Green, White, Yellow, Red)and determined using IMC 0609, Significance Determination Process dated June 2, 2011.
Cross-cutting aspects are determined using IMC 0310, Aspects Within the Cross-Cutting Areas effective date January 1, 2014. All violations of NRC requirements are dispositioned in accordance with the NRCs Enforcement Policy dated July 9, 2013. The NRC's program for overseeing the safe operation of commercial nuclear power reactors is described in NUREG-1649, Reactor Oversight Process Revision 5, dated February 2014.
NRC-Identified and Self-Revealing Findings
Cornerstone: Initiating Events
- Green.
The inspectors identified a finding having very low safety significance and an associated Non-Cited Violation (NCV) of 10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3), Surveillance Requirements, for the failure to ensure the channel time delay for the degraded-voltage monitor was included in Technical Specification (TS) Surveillance Requirement (SR)3.3.5.2.a. Specifically, the licensee failed to include in the TS SR the required time delay after the voltage relay trips before the preferred source of power is isolated and 1E electrical loads transferred to the stand-by Emergency Diesel Generators (EDGs). This finding was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program and the licensees preliminary verification determined the degraded voltage monitors were still operable but degraded or non-conforming.
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because if left uncorrected, it would have the potential to lead to more significant safety concern.
Specifically, by not incorporating the total time delay requirements into the Technical Specifications, (TS) the time could be changed without going through the TS change process, possibly leading to spurious trips of offsite power sources or possibly exceeding the accident analysis time is the FSAR. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because it did not cause a reactor trip and the loss of mitigation equipment relied upon to transition the plant from the onset of the trip to a stable shutdown condition. The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding because the finding was not representative of the licensees present performance. (Section 1R21.3.b(9))
Cornerstone: Mitigating Systems
- Green.
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control for the failure to ensure the safety-related Engineered Safeguard Systems trains would not be adversely affected by air entrainment when aligned to the Safety Injection and Refueling Water (SIRW) Tank. Specifically, calculation EA-C-PAL-0877D, assumed incorrectly only one train of the Engineered Safeguards System (ESS) was in operation when evaluating if the SIRW Tank reaches the limit for critical submergence during a tank drawdown. As part of their corrective actions, the licensee re-evaluated the scenarios of concern, performed an operability evaluation, and implemented compensatory actions.
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Equipment Performance attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, air entrainment into the ESS systems could potentially impact the operability of the system by air binding the pumps, reduce discharge flow, discharge pressure and/or delay injection. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because the finding was a deficiency affecting the design or qualification of a mitigating structure system or component (SSC) but the SSC maintained its operability. The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding because the finding was not representative of the licensees present performance.
(Section 1R21.3.b(1))
- Green.
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, for the licensees failure to ensure the incoming feeder cables from startup transformer 1-2 to 2400 V safety-related Buses 1C and 1D were sized in accordance with their design basis, as described in Palisades FSAR Section 8.5.2. Specifically, the licensee failed to ensure the ampacity of the cables was at least as high as their maximum steady-state current. The licensee entered this finding into their Correction Action Program and verified the operability of the cables.
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, cables were undersized with respect to the loading that would automatically occur as the result of a design basis accident. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality. This finding had a crosscutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Design Margin component, because the licensee did not ensure that equipment is operated and maintained within design margins, and margins are carefully guarded and changed only through a systematic and rigorous process. [H.6]
(Section 1R21.3.b(2))
- Green.
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, for the licensees failure to ensure electric motors are sized in accordance with the design basis, as discussed in Palisades FSAR Section 6.2.3.1. Specifically, the horsepower ratings of certain motors are less than power demands of their driven equipment, and they were not analyzed to ensure overheating would not occur. The licensee entered this finding into their Correction Action Program with a recommended action to analyze the effect of the condition, and has verified the operability of the motors.
This performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, motors serving loads with power demands in excess of the motor horsepower ratings were not analyzed to ensure that motor damage would not occur. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green)because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality. This finding had a crosscutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Design Margin component, because the licensee failed to ensure that equipment is operated within design margins, and margins are carefully guarded and changed only through a systematic and rigorous process. [H.6] (Section 1R21.3.b(3))
- Green.
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, for the licensees failure to ensure that voltages on the 480V system do not exceed equipment ratings.
Specifically, the licensee increased the output voltage of the supply transformers to the 480V safety-related buses by 2.5 percent, but failed to ensure the resulting voltages would not exceed equipment ratings when the system is powered from the station power transformer or emergency diesel generator. The licensee entered this finding into their Correction Action Program and verified the operability of the affected equipment.
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, the licensee failed to verify or check the voltage increase on the 480V system to ensure the maximum allowable voltage would not exceed equipment ratings. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green)because the affected SSCs maintained their operability and functionality. The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding, because the finding was not representative of the licensees present performance. (Section 1R21.3.b(4))
- Green.
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of Technical Specifications 5.5.7, "Inservice Testing Program," for the failure to perform comprehensive pump testing of Containment Spray Pump P-54A in accordance with the code of record. Specifically, the licensee did not rerun a comprehensive pump test, as required by the codes ISTB-6300 Systematic Error section. As part of their corrective actions, the licensee entered the issue into the Corrective Action Program, and determined the component remained operable.
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Equipment Performance attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, failing to perform testing as required could result in the degradation of the equipment being undetected. The finding screened as having very low safety significance because the finding was a deficiency affecting the design or qualification of a mitigating structure system or component (SSC) but the SSC maintained its operability. The findings had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of Problem Identification and Resolution, Evaluation, because the licensee failed to thoroughly evaluate the issue to ensure that resolutions address causes and extents of conditions commensurate with their safety significance. [P.2] (Section 1R21.3.b(5))
- Green.
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, for the licensees failure to have adequate acceptance criteria in the emergency diesel generator surveillance procedures. Specifically, the licensee failed to ensure the surveillance test procedures for the emergency diesel generator largest load rejection test bounded the power demand of the largest load, as required by Technical Specification SR 3.8.1.5. The licensee entered this finding into their Correction Action Program and verified the operability of the emergency diesel generators.
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, because it impacted the Procedure Quality attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective of ensuring the availability, reliability, and capability of systems to respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences.
Specifically, the surveillance procedure error could result in acceptance of test results that did not satisfy Technical Specification SR 3.8.1.5 for rejection of a load greater than or equal to the emergency diesel generators single largest predicted post-accident load.
The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality. This finding had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Resources component, because the licensee failed to ensure that personnel, equipment, procedures, and other resources are adequate to assure nuclear safety by maintaining long term plant safety.
[H.1] (Section 4OA2.1.b(1))
Cornerstone: Barrier Integrity
- Green.
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, for the licensees failure to correctly translate design valve leakage limits into the applicable test procedure. Specifically, the acceptance criterion for emergency core cooling system (ECCS)/containment spray (CS) recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056 had not been correctly adjusted to account for the higher differential pressure associated with ECCS operation under post-accident conditions. The licensee entered this finding into their Corrective Action Program to correct the valve leakage limit.
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone and adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events. Specifically, leakage approaching the procedural values would exceed analyzed dose calculations.
The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment. The inspectors determined this finding did not have an associated cross-cutting aspect because it was not representative of present performance. (Section 1R21.3.b(6))
- Green.
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, Control of Purchased Material, Equipment, and Services, for the licensees failure to identify non-safety-related sub-components improperly supplied with safety-related valves. Specifically, ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056, which were installed in 2007, were supplied with non-safety-related sub-components. These components were identified as non-safety-related on the vendor drawings. In addition, the licensee later installed a section of non-safety-related tubing on valve CV-3027 based on the incorrect vendor drawing. The licensee entered this finding into their Corrective Action Program to correct the valve drawings and replace the non-safety-related parts.
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone and adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events. Specifically, the licensee failed to identify non-safety-related sub-components improperly supplied with safety-related valves which would form part of the containment barrier under post-accident conditions. The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment.
The inspectors determined this finding did not have an associated cross-cutting aspect because it was not representative of the licensees present performance.
(Section 1R21.3.b(7))
- Green.
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, for the licensees failure to establish an adequate test program for the Shutdown Cooling (SDC) Heat Exchangers (HXs) to demonstrate they can perform as designed. Specifically, the licensee failed to take actions to ensure the SDC HXs heat transfer capability met its design bases, as assumed in design bases calculations.
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Design Control attribute of the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone and adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events. Specifically, the licensee failed to verify the SDC HXs heat transfer capability met their design bases, as assumed in design bases calculations, to limit containment temperatures and pressures during an event. The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment.
The inspectors determined this finding had an associated cross-cutting aspect,
Conservative Bias, in the Human Performance cross-cutting area. Specifically, on several occasions when the licensee identified the need to perform testing and/or inspection of the SDC HXs, the licensee did not take actions because they did not believe any regulatory requirements or technical issues existed that required the testing and/or inspections.
[H.14] (Section 1R21.3.b(8))
Licensee-Identified Violations
Violations of very low safety or security significance or Severity Level IV that were identified by the licensee have been reviewed by the NRC. Corrective actions taken or planned by the licensee have been entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program (CAP). These violations and CAP tracking numbers are listed in Section 4OA7 of this report.
REPORT DETAILS
REACTOR SAFETY
Cornerstone: Initiating Events, Mitigating Systems, and Barrier Integrity
1R21 Component Design Bases Inspection
.1 Introduction
The objective of the component design bases inspection is to verify the design bases have been correctly implemented for the selected risk significant components and the operating procedures and operator actions are consistent with design and licensing bases. As plants age, their design bases may be difficult to determine and an important design feature may be altered or disabled during a modification. The Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA) model assumes the capability of safety systems and components to perform their intended safety function successfully. This inspectable area verifies aspects of the Initiating Events, Mitigating Systems, and Barrier Integrity cornerstones for which there are no indicators to measure performance.
Specific documents reviewed during the inspection are listed in the attachment to the report.
.2 Inspection Sample Selection Process
The inspectors used information contained in the licensees PRA and the Palisades Standardized Plant Analysis Risk Model to identify a scenario to use as the basis for component selection. The scenario selected was a Large Break Loss of Coolant Accident (LBLOCA) and subsequent transfer to recirculation. Based on this scenario, a number of risk significant components were selected for the inspection.
The inspectors also used additional component information such as a margin assessment in the selection process. This design margin assessment considered original design reductions caused by design modification, power uprates, or reductions due to degraded material condition. Equipment reliability issues were also considered in the selection of components for detailed review. These included items such as performance test results, significant corrective actions, repeated maintenance activities, Maintenance Rule (a)(1) status, components requiring an operability evaluation, NRC resident inspector input of problem areas/equipment, and system health reports.
Consideration was also given to the uniqueness and complexity of the design, operating experience, and the available defense in depth margins. A summary of the reviews performed and the specific inspection findings identified are included in the following sections of the report.
The inspectors also identified procedures and modifications for review that were associated with the selected components. In addition, the inspectors selected operating experience issues associated with the selected components.
This inspection constituted 20 samples as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.21-05.
.3 Component Design
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors reviewed the Final Safety Analysis Report (FSAR), Technical Specifications (TS), design basis documents, drawings, calculations and other available design basis information, to determine the performance requirements of the selected components. The inspectors used applicable industry standards, such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Code, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Standards and the National Electric Code, to evaluate acceptability of the systems design. The NRC also evaluated licensee actions, if any, taken in response to NRC issued operating experience, such as Bulletins, Generic Letters (GLs),
Regulatory Issue Summaries (RISs), and Information Notices (INs). The review was to verify the selected components would function as designed when required and support proper operation of the associated systems. The attributes that were needed for a component to perform its required function included process medium, energy sources, control systems, operator actions, and heat removal. The attributes to verify that the component condition and tested capability was consistent with the design bases and was appropriate may include installed configuration, system operation, detailed design, system testing, equipment and environmental qualification, equipment protection, component inputs and outputs, operating experience, and component degradation.
For each of the components selected, the inspectors reviewed the maintenance history, preventive maintenance activities, system health reports, operating experience-related information, vendor manuals, electrical and mechanical drawings, and licensee Corrective Action Program documents. Field walkdowns were conducted for all accessible components to assess material condition and to verify that the as-built condition was consistent with the design. Other attributes reviewed are included as part of the scope for each individual component.
The following 14 components were reviewed:
- Containment Spray Pump P-54A: The inspectors reviewed calculations related to pump hydraulics to ensure the pump was capable of performing its design bases accident mitigation functions. The calculations included analysis of net positive suction head (NPSH), discharge head, flow, and management of potential air entrainment mechanisms. The inspectors also reviewed procedures and system diagrams to ensure the pump would be operated within its design parameters during an event. Recent Inservice Test (IST) reports and historical trends data were reviewed to assess compliance with Technical Specification surveillance requirements, compliance with the applicable code of record, review potential component degradation, and impact on design margins. The inspectors discussed the component's performance with the system engineer and reviewed recent corrective action documents related to the SSC in order to assess the overall health of the component. In addition, the inspectors performed a walkdown to assess material condition of the pump and supporting components.
- 2400V Switchgear 1D: In addition to the generic list of attributes listed above, the inspectors reviewed electrical diagrams, calculations, and procedures, including system short circuit and load flow calculations. Incoming breaker protective relay trip setpoints were reviewed to evaluate the adequacy of the switchgear bus and breakers to carry anticipated loads under limiting conditions and to withstand and interrupt maximum available faults. The inspectors also reviewed the voltage profile of the offsite system, voltage drop calculations, and the undervoltage relay settings to assess adequacy of voltage at the terminals of the safety-related loads and ability to remain connected to offsite power under worst operating and accident conditions. Sizing of the incoming feeder cables was reviewed to determine their capability under worst accident conditions.
- SIRW Tank Suction Valve (CV-3057): The inspectors reviewed procedures and system diagrams to ensure the component would be operated within its design parameters during a design basis event. The inspectors discussed the component's performance with the system engineer, and reviewed recent corrective action documents related to the SSC in order to assess the overall health of the component. Calculations related to the components safety-related air supply was also reviewed. The inspectors reviewed the circuit protection and the environmental qualification to confirm the circuit was adequately protected, and the valve was capable of performing its intended safety function. Voltage drop calculations were reviewed to verify the associated control circuits had adequate voltage under degraded voltage conditions. The inspectors also reviewed surveillance test data, any operator control limitations, operating procedures, vendor and generic communications, recent CRs and operability evaluations for any anomalous indications or possible difficulties in system operation. In addition, the inspectors performed a walkdown to assess material condition of the valve, supporting components, and identify any potential concerns related to adverse interaction with the surrounding equipment.
- Containment Sump Outlet Valve CV-3029: The inspectors reviewed the design basis of the air-operated valve including thrust calculations, the basis for valve stroke time requirements, and the associated control logic. The inspectors reviewed test, and emergency procedures, as well as the response of the system to the failure of the valve to operate under accident conditions. The inspectors reviewed the capacity of the high-pressure air system to verify its capability to operate the valve with a loss of normal instrument air. The inspectors reviewed air system leak test procedures and results and performed a walkdown of the valve to verify its material condition. The inspectors also reviewed the circuit protection, the environmental qualification of affected circuit components to confirm the circuit was adequately protected, and the valve was capable of performing its intended safety function during a design basis accident. Voltage drop calculations were reviewed to verify the associated control circuits had adequate voltage under degraded voltage conditions. The inspectors also reviewed operating procedures, vendor and generic communications, recent CRs and operability evaluations for any anomalous indications or possible difficulties in system operation.
- SIRW Tank Level Switch LS-327: The inspectors reviewed installation drawings and vendor documentation to verify the switch was appropriate for its use. The inspectors reviewed the Recirculation Actuation Signal (RAS) logic to verify the switch met its design basis. The inspectors also reviewed switch calibration and testing procedures. In addition, the inspectors performed a walkdown of the SIRW tank to assess the level transmitters used for calibration of the switch.
- Shutdown Cooling Heat Exchanger E-60A: The inspectors reviewed heat exchanger design documents to verify assumptions made in design bases calculations. The inspectors reviewed normal, test, and emergency procedures.
The inspectors also reviewed historical information to understand how heat exchanger performance had been validated since original installation. A walkdown was performed to assess the material condition of the heat exchanger and supporting components. In addition, the inspectors reviewed aging management aspects related to the heat exchanger.
- Component Cooling Water (CCW) Pump (P-52B): The inspectors reviewed calculations related to pump hydraulics to ensure the pump was capable of performing its design bases accident mitigation functions. Included in the review were cooling requirements for the component and the supplied loads. Also, reviewed were potential alternate sources for cooling the supplied load if CCW were to become unavailable during an accident. The inspectors also reviewed procedures and system diagrams to ensure the pump would be operated within its design parameters during an event. The inspectors discussed the component's performance with the system engineer, and reviewed recent corrective action documents related to the SSC in order to assess the overall health of the component. In addition, the inspectors performed a walkdown to assess material condition of the pump, supporting components, and identify any potential concerns related to adverse interaction with the surrounding or nearby equipment.
- Component Cooling Water (CCW) Relief Valve RV-0956: The inspectors also reviewed procedures and system diagrams to ensure the pump would be operated within its design parameters during an event. The inspectors discussed the component's performance with the system engineer, and reviewed recent corrective action documents related to the SSC in order to assess the overall health of the component. In addition, the inspectors reviewed vendor manuals and technical sheets for the component. The required licensing and design bases for the component were reviewed and discussed with NRR, and requires further evaluation.
- Containment Sump Strainer: The inspectors reviewed results of sump inspections and ECCS pump NPSH analyses to verify the pressure drop across the screens under post-accident conditions. The inspectors reviewed normal, test, and emergency procedures. The inspectors also reviewed the basis for the maximum particle size.
- 125 VDC Bus D10: The inspectors reviewed the circuit diagrams, the short circuit current calculation, and the coordination calculation to confirm the short circuit duty and the proper coordination between the panel fuses and branch circuit cabling with the upstream protective device. The inspectors also reviewed the panel electrical loading and voltage drop calculations, and the branch circuit cabling, to confirm bus and circuit cable ampacity was adequate and branch circuits had adequate voltage. The inspectors also reviewed recent CRs, operability evaluations, and operating procedures for any anomalous indications.
- LPSI Pump Suction Crosstie Valve MO-3090: The inspectors reviewed the design basis of the motor-operated valve including thrust calculations, the basis for valve stroke time requirements, and the associated control logic. The inspectors reviewed normal, test, and emergency procedures including the response to the single failure of an electrical power supply to MO-3090. The inspectors also reviewed the interface between the electrical system distribution calculations and the valve thrust calculation to verify adequate voltage to the valve motor under the most limiting conditions. The inspectors performed a walkdown of the valve to verify its material condition.
- 480V Motor Control Center (MCC) 23: In addition to the generic list of attributes listed above, the inspectors reviewed electrical diagrams, calculations, and procedures, including system short circuit calculations and main alternating current (AC) electrical distribution analysis. Voltage calculations were reviewed to verify minimum and maximum voltages were within equipment capabilities, including downstream power and control components. Thermal overload protection for motor operated valves was reviewed to assess the adequacy of valve motor overload protection.
- ECCS/CS Minimum Flow Valve CV-3027: The inspectors reviewed the design basis of the air-operated valve including thrust calculations, the basis for valve stroke time requirements, and the associated control logic. The inspectors reviewed normal, test, and emergency procedures as well as the response of the system to the single failure of the valve to operate under accident conditions.
The inspectors reviewed the basis for the valve leakage limits and reviewed leak test procedures and results. The inspectors also reviewed the safety classification of valve sub-components. The inspectors performed a walkdown of the valve to verify its material condition.
- 125 VDC Bus D11: The inspectors reviewed the circuit diagrams, the short circuit current calculation, and the coordination calculation to confirm the short circuit duty and the proper coordination between the panel fuses and branch circuit cabling with the upstream protective device. The inspectors reviewed the degraded voltage protection design scheme to determine whether it afforded adequate voltage to safety-related devices at all voltage distribution levels. The inspectors also reviewed the panel electrical loading and the branch circuit cabling, to confirm bus, circuit cable ampacity was adequate, and branch circuits had adequate voltage. The inspectors also reviewed recent CRs, operability evaluations, and operating procedures for any anomalous indications.
b. Findings
- (1) Failure to Ensure Engineered Safeguards Systems (ESS) Are Not Adversely Affected By Air Entrainment
Introduction:
A finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control was identified by the inspectors for the failure to ensure the safety-related ESS Trains would not be adversely affected by air entrainment when the ESS trains are aligned to the SIRW tank under design bases accidents.
Description:
During a postulated design bases accident, the licensees ESS would be required to operate. At the beginning of the accident the two trains of ESS would begin to operate with their associated pumps suction lined up to the SIRW Tank. Train A includes: one Low Pressure Safety Injection (LPSI) pump, one Containment Spray (CS)pump and one High Pressure Safety Injection (HPSI) pump. Train B includes one LPSI pump, two CS pumps and one HPSI pump. When the water level in the SIRW tank reaches a pre-determined low level, a Recirculation Actuation Signal (RAS) is generated. Once the RAS occurs, the LPCI pumps are tripped off and the pumps' suctions begin to automatically re-aligned to the containment sump. Per the licensees design bases this process can take up to 70 seconds to occur. If the water level were to get too low on the SIRW tank before the automatic swap to the containment sump concludes, air could be drawn into the system. If enough air entrainment occurred, the operability of the downstream pumps could be affected. Air entrainment can degrade pump performance, causing the pumps to air bind, reduce discharge pressure/flow and/or cause delays in injection.
The inspectors reviewed design bases calculation EA-C-PAL-0877D, "Evaluation of the Potential for Excessive Air Entrainment Caused by Vortexing in the SIRW tank During a LOCA," Revision 1. In the calculation the licensee established the critical submergences needed before air entrainment mechanisms could develop (vortexing and radial inflow)and evaluated the lowest water levels reached in the SIRW tank during a design bases accident. The calculation determined the critical submergence limit for vortexing would be exceeded. The licensee estimated the maximum credible air entrainment at the pumps' suctions as 3.6 percent by volume. This value was determined using the "enveloping line" correlation based on Knauss, Jost, "Swirling Flow Problems at Intakes," A. A. Balkema, Rotterdam, Netherlands, 1987 and the expected void compression using the Ideal Gas Law. However, the inspectors noted the configuration described in the referenced material did not match the licensees SIRW tank outlet piping configuration. The referenced material was based on horizontal outlet pipes, not vertical as in the case of the licensees SIRW tank. Also, the expected void fraction at the pumps exceeded those considered acceptable per NEI 09-10, "Guidelines for Effective Prevention and Management of System Gas Accumulation. The NEI 09-10 provides the void fraction acceptance criteria used for operability calls in Palisades' Gas Accumulation Management Program Document. This is discussed in Attachment 9.5 of EN-DC-219, "Gas Accumulation Management," Revision 3 (the licensees Gas Management Program Document):
"These guidelines do not provide acceptance criteria to support permanent design bases or procedural changes. These guidelines do provide a toolset for establishing a Reasonable Expectation of Operability based on industry standards for non-conforming conditions associated with gas intrusion. Other tools may be utilized by a specific site if properly supported by site evaluation."
Upon further review, the inspectors noticed that when determining the lowest level reached in the SIRW tank, calculation EA-C-PAL-0877D did not assume both trains of ESS could be in operation and taking suction from the SIRW tank concurrently. In addition, the calculation did not identify that a postulated single failure could result in a failure of RAS to occur for one train. Under this condition, one train of ESS would not realign to the containment sump and the LPCI pump on the affected train would continue to operate. Both of these concerns would result in a SIRW tank level lower than that assumed in the calculation. The licensee documented the inspectors' concerns under CR-PLP-2014-04472 and CR-PLP-2014-04665. An operability evaluation was also developed under CR-PLP-2014-04665. In order to maintain operability, the licensee re-evaluated the scenarios in Question (EC 53093) and adjusted their acceptance criteria for critical submergence. In addition, compensatory actions to ensure the system behaved as expected in their re-valuation were needed. These actions included: (1)revising the acceptance criteria in QO-2 for the stroke times of the SIRW tank outlet isolation valves CV-3031 and CV-3057 (shortened the allowed stroke time), and (2)revising the acceptance criteria in RI-14 for the SIRW tank low level switches LS-0327, LS-0328, LS-0329 and LS-0330.
Analysis:
The inspectors determined the licensees failure to ensure the safety-related ESS Trains would not be adversely affected by air entrainment when aligned to the SIRW tank was a performance deficiency. Specifically, when evaluating if the SIRW tank reaches the limit for critical submergence (during a tank drawdown) calculation EA-C-PAL-0877D, assumed only one train of ESS was in operation instead of both trains. Additionally, the licensee did not evaluate the potential effects on the ESS system if both trains are assumed to be in operation, or if one train fails to receive its RAS signal. Both scenarios result in lower water levels in the SIRW tank, and potential air ingestion into the ESS trains.
The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it impacted the Equipment Performance attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, air entrainment into the ESS systems could potentially impact the operability of the system by air binding the pumps, reduce discharge flow, discharge pressure and/or delay injection. The licensee performed an operability evaluation, and re-analyzed the SIRW tank drain down (EC 53093) in order to ensure the ESS systems remained Operable.
The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with IMC 0609, Significance Determination Process, Attachment 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings. Specifically, the inspectors used IMC 0609 Appendix A SDP for Findings At-Power Exhibit 2, Mitigating Systems Screening Questions. The finding was a deficiency affecting the design or qualification of a mitigating structure system or component (SSC) but the SSC maintained its operability. Specifically, the licensee performed an operability evaluation CR-PLP-2014-04665 and determined the performance deficiency would result in lower SIRW Tank levels but at least one train of ESS would remain operable during a design bases accident. As a result, the finding screened as having very low safety significance, i.e., Green.
The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding because the finding was not representative of the licensees present performance.
Enforcement:
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control requires, in part, that measures shall be established to assure that applicable regulatory requirements and the design basis, as defined in 50.2 and as specified in the license application, for those structures, systems, and components to which this appendix applies are correctly translated into specifications, drawings, procedures, and instructions.
Contrary to the above, as of September 8, 2014, the licensee failed to ensure their ESS trains would not be adversely affected by air entrainment when these are aligned to the SIRW tank. Specifically, calculation EA-C-PAL-0877D, "Evaluation of the Potential for Excessive Air Entrainment Caused by Vortexing in the SIRW tank During a LOCA,"
Revision 1, failed to evaluate the potential effects on the ESS systems if both trains were assumed to be in operation, or if one train failed to receive its RAS signal. As part of their corrective actions, the licensee initiated CR-PLP-2014-04665, performed an operability evaluation, and implemented compensatory measures needed to ensure the Engineered Safeguard Systems are able to perform their required safety functions during design bases conditions.
Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-04472 and CR-PLP-2014-04665, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-01, Failure to Ensure Engineered Safeguards Systems Are Not Adversely Affected By Air Entrainment.]
- (2) Undersized Supply Cables from Startup Transformer to 2400V Buses
Introduction:
A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, was identified by the inspectors for the licensees failure to ensure the incoming feeder cables from startup transformer 1-2 to 2400 V safety-related Buses 1C and 1D were sized in accordance with their design basis, as described in Palisades FSAR Section 8.5.2.
Specifically, the licensee failed to ensure the ampacity of the cables was at least as high as their maximum predicted steady-state current.
Description:
On October 23, 2013, the licensee issued calculation EA-ELEC-EDSA-03, LOCA with Offsite Power Available, Revision 2, which identified that the maximum steady-state load on Bus 1C during a LOCA would be 873 amps (Tables B2-1C and SU-CD-1C-B2) and on Bus 1D would be 953 amps (Table SU-1D-2355-B2). Palisades FSAR Section 8.5.2 states that Cables installed in...underground ducts are thermally sized in accordance with NEC or IPCEA/ICEA ampacity values (depending on cable physical size) of concentric stranded insulated cable for the conductor operating temperature of the insulation. According to Section 4.0 a of Engineering Analysis EA-ELEC-AMP-030, Capability of the 2400V Feeder Cables to Buses 1C and 1D from the Startup Transformer 1-2, Revision 2, the rated operating temperature of the cable insulation is 90°C. According to Engineering Change EC 24546 to Design Basis Document DBD 3.04, 2400V AC System," Revision 7, the ampacity is 636 amps (current that would raise the cable temperature to 90°C). Thus, the cable ampacity is exceeded by the loading levels calculated in EA-ELEC-EDSA-03, contrary to the requirement of FSAR Section 8.5.2. Although the licensee previously entered this issue into their Margin Management Program as Margin Issue 414, they failed to characterize it as a design basis deficiency.
Based on inspector concerns, the licensee entered this issue into the Corrective Action Program as CR- CR-PLP-2014-4860 with a recommended action to provide additional procedural guidance for unloading the cables if an overload condition were to occur.
The licensee also verified current operability by confirming the cables would not fail as a result of the condition.
Analysis:
The inspectors determined the failure to ensure the supply cables to Buses 1C and 1D are sized in accordance with the design basis was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, and was a performance deficiency. The finding was determined to be more than minor because the finding was associated with the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, cables were undersized with respect to the loading that would automatically occur as the result of a design basis event.
The inspectors assessed this finding for significance in accordance with NRC Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, Exhibit 2, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, and determined that it was of very low safety significance (Green),because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality. This finding had a crosscutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Design Margin component, because the licensee did not ensure that equipment is operated and maintained within design margins, and margins are carefully guarded and changed only through a systematic and rigorous process. The licensees margin management program had not corrected this known condition. [H.6]
Enforcement:
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control requires, in part, Measures shall be established to assure that applicable regulatory requirements and the design basis are correctly translated into specifications, drawings, procedures, and instructions. The design control measures shall provide for verifying or checking the adequacy of design, such as by the performance of design reviews, by the use of alternate or simplified calculational methods, or by the performance of a suitable testing program.
Contrary to the above, as of September 8, 2014, the licensee failed to assure that the design basis for cable sizing specified in FSAR Section 8.5.2 was translated into the design of the cables. Specifically, the design ampacity of the cables was less than their maximum predicted steady-state load. Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-CR-PLP-2014-4860 with a recommended action to provide additional procedural guidance for unloading the cables if an overload condition were to occur, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy.
The licensee also verified current operability by confirming the cables would not fail as a result of the condition. [NCV 05000255/2014008-02, Undersized Supply Cables from Startup Transformer to 2400V Buses.]
- (3) Undersized Motors
Introduction:
A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, was identified by the inspectors for the licensees failure to ensure that electric motors are sized in accordance with the design basis, as discussed in Palisades FSAR Section 6.2.3.1.
Specifically, the horsepower ratings of certain motors are less than power demands of their driven equipment, and they were not analyzed to ensure that overheating would not occur.
Description:
Palisades FSAR Section 6.2.3.1 states the containment spray motor drivers have been selected to be non-overloading over the entire pump operating range.
To the contrary, on August 6, 2014, the licensee issued calculation EA-ELEC-LDTAB-005, Emergency Diesel Generators 1-1 and 1-2 Steady State Loadings, Revision 10, which identifies, in Table C.1, that the motor for containment spray pump P-54A is rated 250 HP, but the power demand of the pump is 278 BHP. The calculation also lists other motors having ratings less than the power demand of their associated driven equipment.
Power demands of the containment spray pumps and other motor driven equipment would be even higher than those listed in Calculation Tables A.1 through E.2 when the emergency diesel generator is operating at its maximum allowable frequency and voltage. The calculation identifies, in Section 4.24, that this operating condition would cause a 6.32 percent increase in the power demands. The inspectors noted calculation EA-ELEC-LDTAB-005 does not analyze or justify the undersized motor condition, nor is there any other analysis that justifies this condition. In the, Quality Assurance Program Manual, Revision 26, the licensee is committed to Regulatory Guide 1.64, Quality Assurance Requirements for the Design of Nuclear Power Plants, Revision 2, which cites ANSI N45.2.11-1974, Quality Assurance Requirements for the Design of Nuclear Power Plants. ANSI N45.2.11 states, Measures shall be applied to verify the adequacy of design. Design verification is the process of reviewing, confirming, or substantiating the design by one or more methods to provide assurance that the design meets the specified design inputs. The results of design verification efforts shall be clearly documented. Contrary to this requirement, the licensee had not verified and documented the thermal capability of motors serving loads in excess of the motor horsepower rating.
The licensee entered this issue into their Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4902 with a recommended action to analyze the effect of the condition. The licensee subsequently verified operability of the motors.
Analysis:
The inspectors determined the failure to ensure that electric motors are sized in accordance with the design basis and verified to be within their thermal capability was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, and was a performance deficiency. The finding was determined to be more than minor because the finding was associated with the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, certain motors serve loads with demands in excess of the motor horsepower ratings, and they were not analyzed to ensure that overheating would not occur.
The inspectors assessed this finding for significance in accordance with NRC Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, Exhibit 2, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, and determined that it was of very low safety significance (Green),because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality.
This finding had a crosscutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Design Margin component, because the licensee did not ensure that equipment is operated and maintained within design margins, and margins are carefully guarded and changed only through a systematic and rigorous process. [H.6]
Enforcement:
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control requires, in part, that Measures shall be established to assure that applicable regulatory requirements and the design basis are correctly translated into specifications, drawings, procedures, and instructions. The design control measures shall provide for verifying or checking the adequacy of design, such as by the performance of design reviews, by the use of alternate or simplified calculational methods, or by the performance of a suitable testing program.
Contrary to the above, as of September 8, 2014, the licensee failed to verify the adequacy of design of certain motors. Specifically, the horsepower ratings of those motors did not bound the power demands of their driven equipment, and they were not analyzed to ensure that the condition would not cause overheating.
Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4902, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy.
[NCV 05000255/2014008-03, Undersized Motors.]
- (4) Failure to Ensure that 480V System Voltages do not Exceed Equipment Ratings
Introduction:
A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, was identified by the inspectors for the licensees failure to ensure that voltages on the 480V system do not exceed equipment ratings. Specifically, the licensee increased the output voltage of the supply transformers to the 480V safety-related buses by 2.5 percent, but failed to ensure that the resulting voltages would not exceed equipment ratings when the system is powered from the station power transformer or emergency diesel generator.
Description:
On March 30, 1995, the licensee issued calculation EA-ELEC-VOLT-036, Station Power Transformers No. 11, 12, 19, and 20 Tap Change - 2.5 percent, Revision 0, which states, in Section IV.2.1, the maximum allowed voltage at 480 V Load Centers/MCCs is 1.058 pu (480 V base). On July 28, 1995, the licensee issued Specification Change document SC-94-102, Revision 0, to increase the output voltage of the supply transformers to the 480V safety-related buses by 2.5 percent. The inspectors determined the licensee failed to recognize that this could result in voltages at the 480V buses in excess of the 1.058 per unit limit. In addition, calculation EA-ELEC-VOLT-036,Section IV.4.3, postulated a non-conservative maximum voltage on the 2400V buses of 1.0 per unit (2400V). However, voltages on the 2400V buses in excess of 1.0 per unit could occur due to 1) operation on the diesel generator supply within the diesel generator voltage range up to 1.05 per unit, as allowed by Palisades Technical Specification SR 3.8.1.2, or 2) operation on the non-regulated Station Power Transformer 1-2 supply during shutdown conditions, as discussed in Palisades Technical Specification Basis 3.8.2.
The inspectors were concerned these higher voltages on the 2400V buses, in conjunction with the 2.5 percent increase in voltage to the 480V buses, could result in over voltages on the 480V buses. Voltages higher than the 1.058 per unit calculation limit could cause exposure of load equipment to voltages in excess of the manufacturers ratings and diminished capability of electrical protective devices to interrupt short circuit currents.
The licensee entered this issue into their Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4696 with a recommended action to further analyze emergency diesel generator operation at its maximum allowable voltage and CR-PLP-2014-4864 with an action to restrict switchyard maximum voltage when the safety-related buses are powered from the station power transformer. The licensee subsequently determined that all equipment was operable at the full range of diesel operation.
Analysis:
The inspectors determined the licensees failure to verify or check the adequacy of Specification Change document SC-94-102, Revision 0, was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, and was a performance deficiency. The finding was determined to be more than minor because the finding was associated with the Design Control attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, the licensee failed to verify or check the adequacy of Engineering Assessment EA-ELEC-VOLT-036, Station Power Transformers Nos. 11, 12, 19, and 20 Tap Change - 2.5 percent, Revision 0, to ensure that postulated maximum source voltages bounded allowable operating conditions and thus that the voltage increase would not result in overvoltage conditions.
The inspectors assessed this finding for significance in accordance with NRC Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, Exhibit 2. The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, and determined that it was of very low safety significance (Green),because the SSCs maintained their operability and functionality. The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding, because the finding was not representative of the licensees present performance.
Enforcement:
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control requires, in part, that Measures shall be established to assure that applicable regulatory requirements and the design basis are correctly translated into specifications, drawings, procedures, and instructions. The design control measures shall provide for verifying or checking the adequacy of design, such as by the performance of design reviews, by the use of alternate or simplified calculational methods, or by the performance of a suitable testing program. Contrary to the above, as of September 8, 2014, the licensee failed to verify the adequacy of the design of the transformer tap settings. Specifically, the 2.5 percent boost in voltages to the 480V buses could result in voltages in excess of equipment ratings under certain allowable operating conditions.
Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4696, and CR-PLP-2014-4864 this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-04, Failure to Ensure that 480V System Voltages do not Exceed Equipment Ratings.]
- (5) Failure To Perform Comprehensive Pump Testing Of Containment Spray Pump P-54A In Accordance With The Inservice Testing Program.
Introduction:
A finding of very low safety significance (Green) and associated Non-Cited Violation of Technical Specifications 5.5.7, "Inservice Testing Program" was identified by the inspectors for the licensee's failure to perform comprehensive pump testing of Containment Spray pump P-54A in accordance with the code of record.
Description:
On February 25, 2014 the licensee performed WO 52435851 01, "RO-98 -
LPSI PMP VIB, CONT SPRY PMP VIB, DIS CK," which includes the comprehensive pump test of Containment Spray (CS) Pump P-54A. The comprehensive pump test is performed every 18 months in accordance with the ASME OMb Code-2001, through ASME OMb Code-2003 Addenda, which according to FSAR Section 6.9.2.1, Pump Testing Program," and Site Engineering Program SEP-PLP-IST-102, "Inservice Testing of Selected Safety-Related Pumps" is the code of record for Palisades. Comprehensive testing of pumps is performed in order to detect potential degradation of the equipment and helps ensure the SSC will be able to meet its design requirements. During the test, the recorded differential pressure (DP) was 142.0 psid as read on differential pressure indicator DPI-0319A (range 0 to 250 psid). This value was within the Alert Range established by the licensee's procedure. Procedure RO-98 establishes the different criteria for P-54A as follows:
- The Acceptable Range was a 143.2 to 158.6 psid;
- The Alert Range was 138.6 to 143.2 psid;
- The Required Action Range was DP lower than 138.6 psid or greater than 158.6 psid; and
- The Acceptance Criteria was DP greater than 136.9 psid at 2250 +/- 35 gpm The licensee documented the test results in the Alert Range under CR-PLP-2014-01679.
The licensee suspected instrumentation issues may have been the cause of the deviation. Site personnel performed a historical search of RO-98 testing and identified several CRs related to instrumentation issues including CR-PLP-2010-05181 and CR-PLP-2010-06403. On January 13, 2014, the DPI-0319A had been calibrated to ensure it was within the comprehensive test required accuracy. On February 26, 2014, a post-test calibration was performed in accordance with WO 52435851 01. The result of the calibrations showed pressure indicator DPI-0319A was outside of the test requirements. The results indicated the gauge was reading lower than actual DP. The licensee determined the deviation was approximately 8.75 psid lower and concluded this would indicate an actual DP of approximately 150 psid under RO-98 conditions for pump P-54A. The licensee concluded this would result in a DP within the acceptable range. In addition to the above, the license performed an assessment of the vibration results obtained and evaluated various pump result trends (comprehensive and quarterly testing) associated with pump performance. Based on this review, documented on CR-PLP-2014-01679, the licensee concluded pump P-54A was actually operating within its acceptable range and no additional corrective actions were required.
However, the inspectors were concerned the comprehensive pump test performed on February 25, 2014, was invalid because it did not meet the requirements specified by the ASME code. Specifically, the requirements for differential pressure instrument accuracy.
Per ASME OMb Code-2003, ISTB-3510(a) Accuracy states: Instrument accuracy shall be within the limits of Table ISTB-3500-1. Table ISTB-3500-1, Required Instrument Accuracy, requires the differential pressure instrument accuracy for differential pressure readings during a comprehensive test to be plus or minus 1/2 percent full scale. The post-test calibration results showed DPI-0319A did not meet the required accuracy. The ASME code, Section ISTB-6300 "Systematic Error" requires:
"When a test shows measured parameter values that fall outside of the acceptable range of Table ISTB-5100-1, Table ISTB-5200-1, Table ISTB-5300-1, or Table ISTB-5300-2, as applicable, that have resulted from an identified systematic error, such as improper system lineup or inaccurate instrumentation, the test shall be rerun after correcting the error."
Containment Spray Pump, P-54A, acceptance values for testing fall under Table ISTB-5100-1 "Centrifugal Pump Test Acceptance Criteria. As such, the licensee should have rerun the comprehensive test once DPI-0319A was shown to be out of calibration.
Failing to perform the IST comprehensive test as prescribe by the code was contrary to Technical Specifications (TS) 5.5.7, which requires an Inservice Testing Program be establish, implemented, and maintained. Section TS 5.5.7 a. establishes the required IST intervals as required by the code. Complete details for pumps IST are contained in Site Engineering Program SEP-PLP-IST-102, "Inservice Testing of Selected Safety-Related Pumps." The licensee documented the inspectors' concerns and documented the basis of operability under CR-PLP-2014-04881. The licensee determined the component remained operable based on the evaluation of the instruments calibration and the successful completion of the most recent quarterly IST.
Analysis:
The inspectors determined the failure to perform comprehensive pump testing of CS pump P-54A in accordance with the code of record was contrary to Technical Specification 5.5.7., "Inservice Testing," and a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it was associated with the mitigating system cornerstone attribute of equipment performance.
The PD adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of CS pump P-54A to respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, failing to perform testing as required could result in the degradation of the equipment being undetected.
The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with IMC 0609, Significance Determination Process, Attachment 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings. Specifically, the inspectors used IMC 0609 Appendix A SDP for Findings At-Power Exhibit 2, Mitigating Systems Screening Questions. The finding was a deficiency affecting the design or qualification of a mitigating structure system or component (SSC) but the SSC maintained its operability. This was based on the licensee's evaluation of recent pump quarterly testing, the risk evaluation performed by the licensee, and allowance to defer performing the surveillance in according with the Technical Specifications. As a result, the finding screened as having a very low safety significance, i.e. Green.
The inspectors determined the findings had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of Problem Identification and Resolution, Evaluation, because the licensee failed to thoroughly evaluate the issue to ensure that resolutions address causes and extents of conditions commensurate with their safety significance. Specifically, the licensee failed to identify that the out of calibration instrument would result in an invalid IST results, which would require rerunning the test per the code. [P.2]
Enforcement:
Palisades Technical Specifications 5.5, "Programs and Manuals," states:
"The following programs shall be established, implemented, and maintained," Technical Specifications 5.5.7, Inservice Testing Program, states: "This program provides controls for inservice testing of ASME Code Class 1, 2, and 3 components." Additionally, Site Engineering Program SEP-PLP-IST-102, "Inservice Testing of Selected Safety-Related Pumps" provides the details for performing Inservice Testing at Palisades and lists ASME OMb Code-2001, through ASME OMb Code-2003 Addenda, as the code of record for Palisades.
Contrary to the above, on February 25, 2014, the licensee failed to rerun a comprehensive pump test of Containment Spray pump P-54A in accordance with ASME code. Specifically, the licensee failed to meet the requirements of Section ISTB-6300, Systematic Error, which requires licensees, after correcting the error, to rerun tests when the test shows the measured parameter falls outside the acceptable range as a result of a systematic error such as inaccurate instrumentation. The licensee entered this issue into their Corrective Action Program and evaluated the operability of the component in accordance with their process. Based on previously successful IST quarterly test the licensee determined the component remained operable. Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-04881, this violation is being treated as a Green NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-06, Failure to Perform Comprehensive Pump Testing of Containment Spray Pump P-54A in accordance with the Inservice Testing Program.]
- (6) Failure to Correctly Translate Valve Leakage Limits into Test Procedure
Introduction:
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green)and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, for the licensees failure to correctly translate design valve leakage limits into test procedures. Specifically, the acceptance criterion for ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056 had not been correctly adjusted to account for the higher differential pressure associated with ECCS operation under post-accident conditions.
Description:
The inspectors reviewed the leak test procedure and acceptance criteria associated with ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056. These valves were installed in series in the common minimum flow recirculation line from the ECCS and CS pumps to the SIRW tank. During post-accident operation, these valves remain open during the ECCS injection phase to provide minimum flow protection for the low pressure safety injection (LPSI) and high pressure safety injection (HPSI) pumps.
During the recirculation phase of post-accident operation, these valves are required to be closed to limit the release of radiological material from the SIRW tank vent.
The inspectors observed the design basis alternate source term analysis, NAI-1149-014, Revision 4 (dated 10/15/07), was based on a maximum allowable recirculation line leakage of 0.00625 gpm (23.7 ml/min). Test procedure RO-119, Inservice Testing of Engineered Safeguards Valves CV-3027 and CV-3056, Revision 14 included a leakage acceptance criterion of 25.1 ml/min. The inspectors also observed test Procedure RO-119 was performed with a LPSI pump in operation. The acceptance criterion had not been correctly adjusted to account for the higher differential pressure associated with HPSI pump operation under post-accident conditions. The licensee performed an informal evaluation and determined that the correct leakage acceptance criterion would be 6 ml/min. Condition Report CR-PLP-2014-04681 was initiated to address this issue.
The licensee determined that past leak test results for both CV-3027 and CV-3056 had exceeded the corrected acceptance criterion of 6 ml/min. However, the most recent leak test results for both CV-3027 and CV-3056 were less than 6 ml/min. The licensee also reviewed the results in the context of total containment leakage and verified the past leak test results did not exceed operability limits.
Analysis:
The inspectors determined the failure to correctly translate design valve leakage limits into test procedures was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, and was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it was associated with the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone attribute of Design Control and it adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events.
Specifically, measured leakage exceeded analyzed dose calculations.
The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Significance Determination Process, 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings, issued on June 19, 2012.
Because the finding impacted the Barriers Cornerstone, the inspectors screened the finding through IMC 0609 Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process for Findings At-Power, issued June 19, 2012, using Exhibit 3, Barrier Integrity Screening Questions. The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the inspectors answered No to all of the screening questions in Subsection B, Reactor Containment, of Exhibit 3. Specifically, the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment. The inspectors determined this finding did not have an associated cross-cutting aspect because it was not representative of the licensees present performance.
Enforcement:
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion III, Design Control, requires, in part, that measures shall be established to assure that applicable regulatory requirements and the design basis, as defined in §50.2 and as specified in the license application, for those structures, systems, and components to which this appendix applies are correctly translated into specifications, drawings, procedures, and instructions.
Contrary to the above, as of September 25, 2014, the licensee failed to correctly translated design leakage limits into the test procedure for valves CV-3027 and CV-3056. Because this violation was of very low safety significance and was entered into the licensees CAP as CR-PLP-2014-04681, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-07, Failure to Correctly Translate Valve Leakage Limits into Test Procedure.
- (7) Failure to Identify Non-Safety-Related Sub-Components Improperly Supplied with Safety-Related Valves
Introduction:
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green)and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, Control of Purchased Material, Equipment, and Services, for the licensees failure to identify non-safety-related sub-components improperly supplied with safety-related valves.
Specifically, ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056, which were installed in 2007, were supplied with non-safety-related sub-components. These components were identified as non-safety- related on the vendor drawings. In addition, the licensee later installed a section of non-safety-related tubing on valve CV-3027 based on the incorrect vendor drawing.
Description:
The inspectors reviewed the vendor drawings for safety-related ECCS/CS recirculation isolation valves CV-3027 and CV-3056, which were installed in 2007.
Drawings VEN-M241BC, Sheet 33, Revision 0 and VEN-M241BC, Sheet 35, Revision 0 listed the sub-components associated with these valves and identified the quality classification of each sub-component. The inspection team noted that some of the sub-components appeared to be incorrectly classified as non-safety-related. The licensee investigated and determined the drawings were incorrect and that some of these components were actually supplied as safety-related; however, several cap screws were inappropriately supplied as non-safety-related. Condition report CR-PLP-2014-04755 was initiated to correct the drawings and replace the non-safety-related cap screws with safety-related material.
The licensee performed additional investigation and determined a section of non-safety-related tubing had been installed on valve CV-3027 during maintenance activities; this error was based on the incorrect vendor drawing. Condition report CR-PLP-2014-04815 was initiated to correct the drawings and replace the tubing with safety-related material. The licensee performed an evaluation and determined both valves were operable in their current condition.
Analysis:
The inspectors determined the failure to identify non-safety-related sub-components improperly supplied with safety-related valves was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, Control of Purchased Material, Equipment, and Services, and was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it was associated with the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone attribute of Design Control and it adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events. Specifically, the licensee failed to verify the sub-components of valves CV-3027 and CV-3056 met their design requirements.
The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Significance Determination Process, 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings, issued on June 19, 2012.
Because the finding impacted the Barriers Cornerstone, the inspectors screened the finding through IMC 0609 Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process for Findings At-Power, issued June 19, 2012, using Exhibit 3, Barrier Integrity Screening Questions. The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the inspectors answered No to all of the screening questions in Subsection B, Reactor Containment, of Exhibit 3. Specifically, the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment. The inspectors determined this finding did not have an associated cross-cutting aspect because it was not representative of current performance.
Enforcement:
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion VII, Control of Purchased Material, Equipment, and Services, requires, in part, that measures shall be established to assure that purchased material, equipment, and services, whether purchased directly or through contractors and subcontractors, conform to the procurement documents.
Contrary to the above, as of September 25, 2007 and October 8, 2007, when these valves were installed, the licensee failed to assure that purchased material conformed to the procurement documents. Because this violation was of very low safety significance and was entered into the licensees CAP as CR-PLP-2014-04755 and CR-PLP-2014-04815, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-08, Failure to Identify Non-Safety-Related Sub-Components Improperly Supplied with Safety-Related Valves.]
- (8) Failure to Establish an Adequate Test Program for the Shutdown Cooling Heat Exchangers
Introduction:
The inspectors identified a finding of very low safety significance (Green)and associated NCV of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, for the licensees failure to establish an adequate test program for the Shutdown Cooling (SDC)
Heat Exchangers (HXs) to demonstrate they can perform as designed. Specifically, the licensee failed to take actions to ensure the SDC HXs heat transfer capability met its design bases, as assumed in design bases calculations.
Description:
The SDC HXs were designed for use during primary system cooldown, refueling, and emergency plant operation. During plant cooldowns and refueling outages, the HXs remove decay heat by directly cooling the primary coolant system.
During emergency plant operations, the HXs form part of the containment cooling system by cooling the containment spray water. In addition, during the recirculation phase of a loss of coolant accident (LOCA), the SDC HXs cool the containment sump water that is injected by the High Pressure Safety Injection (HPSI) pumps to provide long term core cooling.
The SDC HXs are original plant equipment that has been intermittently operated since the beginning of plant operations in 1971. In over 40 years, they have never been inspected, contrary to vendor recommendations. Section E-4.1 of the vendor manual states that, at intervals as experience indicates, an examination should be made of the interior and exterior condition of all tubes. Since the licensee has never inspected the interior of the SDC HXs, they have not established a frequency for performing the HX inspections as recommended by the vendor manual.
In addition, the SDC HXs have never been successfully thermal performance tested. In 1992, the licensee identified the need to thermal performance test the SDC HXs to verify they could perform as designed. However, because they were successfully performing their SDC function and because both water streams flowing through the HXs had chemistry controls in place, the licensee decided it was not necessary to perform the test. In 1996, the licensee completed a thermal performance test, but the analysis of the test results concluded the test did not achieve its goal of recording useful data. The test has never been repeated, and the licensee instead continues to credit the SDC function and the chemistry controls in place to provide assurance that the SDC HXs can perform as designed.
In 1989 the NRC issued Generic Letter (GL) 89-13, Service Water System Problems Affecting Safety-Related Equipment. Although the GL was mostly related to open cycle cooling water systems, it did contain the following guidance related to closed cycle cooling water systems:
Operating experience and studies indicate that closed-cycle service water systems, such as component cooling water systems, have the potential for significant fouling as a consequence of aging-related in-leakage and erosion or corrosion. The need for testing of closed-cycle system heat exchangers has not been considered necessary because of the assumed high quality of existing chemistry control programs. If the adequacy of these chemistry control programs cannot be confirmed over the total operating history of the plant [emphasis added] or if during the conduct of the total testing program any unexplained downward trend in heat exchanger performance is identified that cannot be remedied by maintenance of an open-cycle system, it may be necessary to selectively extend the test program and the routine inspection and maintenance program addressed in Action III, below, to the attached closed-cycle systems.
Therefore, the NRC recognized that testing of closed cycle system heat exchangers was not necessary if high quality chemistry control programs were in place. However, this was dependent on whether or not the adequacy of the chemistry control programs could be confirmed over the total operating history of the plant. Although Palisades has chemistry controls in place for both water streams (Primary Coolant System and Component Cooling Water) flowing through the SDC HXs, the licensee had not verified the effectiveness of these chemistry controls in preventing degradation of the SDC HXs heat transfer capability. The chemistry controls, in themselves, are not enough to demonstrate the SDC HXs can perform as assumed in design bases calculations.
The licensee also credits the SDC function of the HXs to provide justification that they can perform as designed. However, during SDC, the water temperatures and flow rates through the HX are different than those during emergency plant operation, and the licensee does not monitor or trend the SDC performance of the HXs to detect degradation. Therefore, although the HXs are successfully performing the routine SDC function, the licensee does not gather nor analyze sufficient HX performance information to demonstrate the HXs can perform as assumed in design bases calculations.
The issue was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-04912 to review the adequacy of testing performed to ensure the SDC HXs remain qualified to the capability assumed during design bases events. Based upon the available tube plugging margin and recent history of chemistry controls, the inspectors gained reasonable assurance of operability.
Analysis:
The inspectors determined the failure to establish an adequate test program for the SDC HXs to demonstrate they could perform as designed was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, and was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because it was associated with the Barrier Integrity Cornerstone attribute of Design Control and it adversely affected the associated cornerstone objective to provide reasonable assurance that containment could protect the public from radionuclide releases caused by accidents or events. Specifically, the licensee failed to verify that the SDC HXs heat transfer capability met their design bases, as assumed in design bases calculations, to limit containment temperatures and pressures during an event.
The inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using the SDP in accordance with Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Significance Determination Process, 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings, issued on June 19, 2012.
Because the finding impacted the Barriers Cornerstone, the inspectors screened the finding through IMC 0609 Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process for Findings At-Power, issued June 19, 2012, using Exhibit 3, Barrier Integrity Screening Questions. The finding screened as of very low safety significance (Green) because the inspectors answered No to all of the screening questions in Subsection B, Reactor Containment, of Exhibit 3. Specifically, the finding did not represent an actual open pathway in the physical integrity of reactor containment, containment isolation system, or heat removal components and did not involve an actual reduction in function of hydrogen igniters in the reactor containment.
The inspectors determined this finding had an associated cross-cutting aspect, Conservative Bias, in the Human Performance cross-cutting area. Specifically, on several occasions and as recently as October 2012 when the licensee identified the need to perform testing and/or inspection of the SDC HXs, the licensee did not take actions because they did not believe any regulatory requirements or technical issues existed that required the testing and/or inspections. [H.14]
Enforcement:
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, requires, in part, that a test program shall be established to assure all testing required to demonstrate structures, systems, and components will perform satisfactorily in service is identified and performed in accordance with written test procedures which incorporate the requirements and acceptance limits contained in applicable design documents.
Contrary to the above, as of November 4, 2014, the licensee failed to establish an adequate test program for the SDC HXs to demonstrate they could perform as designed.
Specifically, the licensee failed to take actions to ensure the heat transfer capability of the SDC HXs met their design bases, as assumed in design bases calculations.
Because this violation was of very low safety significance and was entered into the licensees CAP as CR-PLP-2014-04912, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-09, Failure to Establish an Adequate Test Program for the Shutdown Cooling Heat Exchangers]
- (9) Failure To Include The Degraded Voltage Channel Time Delay In TS Surveillance Requirement 3.3.5.2.a
Introduction:
The inspectors identified a finding having very low safety significance and an associated Non-Cited Violation (NCV) of 10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3), Surveillance Requirements, for the failure to ensure the channel time delay for the degraded-voltage monitor was included in TS SR 3.3.5.2.a. Specifically, the licensee had only included the timing requirements for the voltage sensing relay in the TS SR; failing to include the required time delay after the voltage sensing relay trips before the preferred source of power is isolated and 1E electrical loads transferred to the stand-by EDGs.
Description:
The inspectors noted TS SR 3.3.5.2, Revision 189, requires the licensee to Perform a CHANNEL CALIBRATION on each Loss of Voltage and Degraded Voltage channel with setpoints: Part a. of SR 3.3.5.2 gives the degraded voltage function setpoint but only gives the time delay associated with the sensing element of the degraded voltage monitor. However, a channel of the degraded voltage monitor contains both the voltage sensing relay and a nominal 6-second delay timer which has to time out before the trip relay actuates and off-site power supply breaker is opened.
The inspectors reviewed an NRC letter to the licensee dated December 22, 1981, with the Subject: SEP Topic VIII-1.A, Potential Equipment Failures Associated With Degraded Grid Voltage. Enclosure 1 to this letter was the NRC staffs Safety Evaluation Report (SER) on degraded grid voltage protection for the Class 1E System. The SER conclusions were based on a detailed review and technical evaluation of the licensees proposed modifications and changes to the Technical Specifications. This SER referenced EG&G Interim Report No. EGG-EA-5321, Revision 3, Degraded Grid Protection for Class 1E Power Systems, Palisades Plant, Docket No. 50-255, TAC No.
10043, Section 3.3, Discussion, Paragraph 3, which states, in part, The time delay selected shall be based on the following conditions: a; The allowable time delay, including margin, shall not exceed the maximum time delay that is assumed in the FSAR accident analysis, and b; The time delay shall minimize the effect of short duration disturbances from reducing the unavailability of the offsite power source(s). Paragraph 4 states, The voltage monitors shall automatically initiate the disconnection of offsite power sources whenever the voltage setpoint and time-delay limits have been exceeded. Paragraph 6 states, The Technical Specifications shall include limiting conditions for operations, surveillance requirements, setpoints with minimum and maximum limits, and allowable values for the second-level voltage protection monitors.
(Note that the degraded voltage setpoint is also known as the second-level voltage relay setpoint.) The total time delay evaluated by EGG was a nominal 6 seconds added to the time for the voltage relay to activate. From these statements, it was clear that a degraded voltage monitor channel consisted of both the voltage sensing relay and the delay timer.
The licensee did not make a change to the custom TS but decided to enter the changes when implementing the standardized Combustion Engineering TS. The inspectors reviewed the Combustion Engineering STS Bases 3.3.7.3, which states, in part, SR 3.3.7.3 is the performance of a CHANNEL CALIBRATION. The CHANNEL CALIBRATION verifies the accuracy of each component within the instrument channel.
Additionally, NRC Regulatory Issue Summary 2011-12, Revision 1, Adequacy of Station Electric Distribution System Voltages, again states, in part, The voltage monitors (or DVRs) shall automatically initiate the disconnection of offsite power source(s) whenever the voltage and time delay limits have been exceeded, and The Technical Specifications shall include Allowable values for second-level voltage protection DVRs. After the inspectors communicated this concern as a non-conservative TS, the licensee initiated condition report CR-PLP-2014-04903, TS SR 3.3.5.2 is Non-Conservative," and implemented administrative controls in accordance with Administrative Letter 98-10 for SR 3.3.5.2 degraded voltage time. The operability evaluation found the diesel generator under voltage start circuitry to be operable DNC
[degraded non-conforming] because the total time delay had been checked and calibrated to within acceptable values.
Analysis:
The inspectors determined the failure to incorporate the total time delay in the 2400 V Class 1E bus degraded voltage monitor channel trip setpoints in the Technical Specification surveillance requirements was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3), and was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor because if left uncorrected, it would have the potential to lead to more significant safety concern. Specifically, by not incorporating the total time delay requirements into the Technical Specifications, the time could be changed without going through the TS change process, possibly leading to spurious trips of offsite power sources or possibly exceeding the accident analysis time is the FSAR.
In accordance with Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Significance Determination Process, Attachment 0609.04, Initial Characterization of Findings, Table 2 the inspectors determined the finding affected the Initiating Events cornerstone due to the potential to initiate a loss of offsite power. As a result, the inspectors determined the finding could be evaluated using Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, Exhibit 1, Initiating Events Screening Questions. The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because it did not cause a reactor trip and the loss of mitigation equipment relied upon to transition the plant from the onset of the trip to a stable shutdown condition.
The inspectors did not identify a cross-cutting aspect associated with this finding because the finding was not representative of the licensee's present performance.
Enforcement:
Title10 CFR Part 50.36(c) states, Technical Specifications will include minimum surveillance requirements. Title10 CFR Part 50.36(c)(3) Surveillance Requirements, states, in part, are requirements relating to test, calibration, or inspection to assure that the necessary quality of systems and components is maintained, that facility operation will be within safety limits, and that the limiting conditions for operation will be met.
Contrary to the above, as of October 9, 2014, the licensee failed to include within TS SR the total time delay for all components in the degraded voltage, which is required to maintain facility operation within safety limits. Specifically, the licensee failed to incorporate the total time delay for all of the components in a channel as required in a CHANNEL CALIBRATION. Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-04903, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-10, Failure To Include The Degraded Voltage Channel Time Delay In TS Surveillance Requirement 3.3.5.2.a].
- (10) Lack of Analysis for Electrical Containment Penetration Protection
Introduction:
The inspectors identified an unresolved item (URI) regarding lack of an analysis to demonstrate that circuit breakers and fuses provide adequate protection against short circuits and overloads for electrical containment penetrations, as discussed in Regulatory Guide 1.63. Resolution of this issue will be based on clarification of Palisades licensing basis by NRC staff.
Description:
As part of the review of power supplies to components inside containment, the inspectors requested to review the analysis that demonstrates protection of the electrical penetrations against short circuits and overloads. The licensee responded that such an analysis does not exist, and stated their position that it is not required by their design and licensing bases.
Electrical protection of containment penetrations was the subject of the Palisades Systematic Evaluation Program (SEP) Topic VIII-4. A letter from Dennis M. Crutchfield, NRC, to David P. Hoffman, Consumers Power Company, SEP Topic VIII-4, Electrical Penetrations of Reactor Containment, dated March 26, 1981, (ADAMS Accession No.
ML8104080152) included an enclosure entitled Position on Protection of Containment Electrical Penetrations against Failures Caused by Fault and Overload Currents for SEP Plants. This position document states: the staff requires compliance with the recommendations of Regulatory Guide 1.63 or an acceptable alternative method. For each containment electrical penetration, the protective systems provide primary and backup protection devices to prevent a single failure in conjunction with a circuit overload from impairing containment integrity.
The licensee responded in a letter from Robert A. Vincent, Consumers Power Company, to Dennis M. Crutchfield, NRC, SEP Topic VIII-4, Electrical Penetrations of Reactor Containment, dated June 15, 1981, (ADAMS Accession No. ML8106180170), in which they stated: The secondary (backup) interrupt devices () would fail to trip prior to the penetration reaching its limiting temperature of 302° C with the postulated combination of faults and failure of the primary interrupters. The licensee committed to perform more detailed evaluations of the capabilities of the protective devices, as well as An evaluation of the adequacy of the Palisades Plant overcurrent protection surveillance testing program. In the following subsequent letters, the licensee reported on the progress of their further evaluations: Letter from Robert A. Vincent, Consumers Power Company, to Dennis M. Crutchfield, NRC, SEP Topic VIII-4, Electrical Penetrations of the Reactor Containment, dated November 16, 1981, (ADAMS Accession No.
ML8111200805); Letter from Kerry A. Toner, Consumers Power Company, to Dennis M.
Crutchfield, NRC, SEP Topic VIII-4, Electrical Penetrations of the Reactor Containment, dated October 12, 1982, (ADAMS Accession No. ML8210190459); and letter from Kerry A. Toner, Consumers Power Company, to Dennis M. Crutchfield, NRC, SEP Topic VIII-4, Status Update of Program to Evaluate the Adequacy of Penetration Protection from Overload and Short-Circuit Conditions, dated February 11, 1983, (ADAMS Accession No. ML8302240273).
The NRC issued their Integrated Plant Safety Assessment Report on this SEP Topic in Letter from Thomas V. Wambach, NRC, to David J. VandeWalle, Consumers Power Company, Integrated Plant Safety Assessment Report (IPSAR) Section 4.26, Electrical Penetrations of Reactor Containment - Palisades Plant, dated June 10, 1983, (ADAMS Accession No. ML8306160396). This IPSAR stated, The staff has evaluated this issue for other plants and concluded that no further action was required for these plants.
Based upon the information contained in the licensees letters dated June 15, 1981, October 12, 1982, and February 11, 1983, the staff concludes that the design of the Palisades electrical penetrations are similar to other SEP plants, that the probability of electrical failure is low and that any leakage path due to penetration failure would be small. Therefore, we consider this issue to have been completed satisfactorily and further action by the licensee is not required. This conclusion was reiterated in NUREG 0820, Supplement 1, Integrated Plant Safety Assessment, Systematic Evaluation Program, Palisades Plant, Final Report, dated November 1983, (ADAMS Accession No.
The inspectors requested that the licensee discuss their lack of an analysis for electrical penetration protection in light of Palisades FSAR Section 8.5.1.2, which states: 10 CFR Part 50, General Design Criterion 50, as implemented by Regulatory Guide 1.63 and IEEE Standard 317-1972, requires that electrical penetrations be designed so that the containment structure can accommodate, without exceeding the design leakage rate, the calculated pressure, temperature and other environmental conditions resulting from any Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA). The licensee responded by initiating corrective action CR-PLP-2014-04450, which states the licensees position that Palisades is not committed to the electrical circuit protection requirements of Regulatory Guide 1.63.
Due to complexity of establishing the appropriate design and licensing bases for this issue, the concern will be resolved using the NRCs Task Interface Agreement (TIA)process. Pending resolution, this item will be tracked as an unresolved item. [URI 05000255/2014008-05, Lack of Analysis for Electrical Containment Penetration Protection].
- (11) Classification of CCW Piping and Components Inside the Reactor Containment Building
Introduction:
The inspectors identified an unresolved issue (URI) regarding the Inservice Inspection (ISI) classification of component cooling water (CCW) piping and components inside the reactor containment building. This piping is currently classified as non-safety-related. Resolution of this issue will be based on clarification of Palisades licensing basis by NRC staff.
Description:
The inspectors reviewed SEP-ISI-PLP-002, ASME Code Boundaries for ASME Section XI Inservice Inspection Program, Revision 1. The purpose of this document was to establish classifications to ensure the proper scope of ASME Section XI system pressure tests, ASME Section V nondestructive examinations, ASME Section XI inspection of component supports, and ASME Section XI repairs, replacements and modifications. This program document stated that guidance for Class 2, 3, and non-safety-related components is found in Regulatory Guide 1.26. The program referred to a set of color-coded P&IDs.
The inspectors noted the CCW piping and components inside the reactor containment building were identified as non-safety-related on the color-coded P&IDs. The team also observed that Attachment 1 of SEP-ISI-PLP-002 (page 45 of 75) identified the piping from the containment penetrations to the single containment isolation valve outside containment as class 2 (check valve CK-CC910 for penetration MZ-14, air-operated valve CV-0911 for penetration MZ-15). This attachment referred to note H, which stated, in part:
All containment penetration assemblies in Class 2, Class 3, and non-class piping will be considered ASME Class 2 out to the second isolation valve where applicable. In some cases, there is single isolation (e.g., MSS, FWS) Where a Class 3 system penetrates containment, that portion will be considered Class 2 and treated as such (ie, ASME Section XI Interpretation BC84-603). The basis for classification of containment penetrations is contained in EGAD-EP-12, Mechanical Containment Penetrations Basis Program.
The current Mechanical Containment Penetrations Basis document was SEP-APJ-PLP-101, Revision 0. This document included a similar description for CCW penetrations MZ-14 and MZ-15. It stated that FSAR Table 5.8-4 classifies these penetrations as class C1. The FSAR table also identified these penetrations as Class C1 and indicated that they are not subject to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix J testing requirements. The FSAR Section 6.7 included a description of Class C1 penetrations, it stated, in part:
Penetrations in this class include those systems that are not connected to either the containment atmosphere or to the Primary Coolant System and are normally open or may be opened during power operation. These lines are protected from missiles originating inside the containment and the lines themselves form the boundary of the containment. One remote manually operated valve, locked closed manual valve or automatic isolation valve is provided in each line. Check valves are considered automatic.
In SEP-APJ-PLP-101 also stated, that both Penetrations MZ-14 and MZ-15 were originally classified as C2 (closed system outside containment per FSAR Section 6.7),until FSAR Revision 22. These were reclassified by SDR-99-0884, dated July 22, 1999.
The basis for these changes included an evaluation that determined CCW piping inside containment would not be damaged by internal missiles (as addressed by NRCs evaluation of SEP Topic III-4,c, dated September 21, 1981), and the classification of CCW as a closed system inside containment. The associated 10 CFR 50.59 evaluation determined that NRC approval was not required for these changes.
The inspection team raised questions regarding the licensing basis classification of the CCW system inside containment:
1. FSAR Section 6.9 stated that Regulatory Guide 1.26 was used to select ASME
Classes 2 and 3 systems and components for coverage by the inspection plan.
Regulatory Guide 1.26, stated in part:
The Quality Group C standards given in Table 1 of this guide should be applied to water-, steam-, and radioactive-waste-containing pressure vessels; heat exchangers (other than turbines and condensers); storage tanks; piping; pumps; and valves that are not part of the reactor coolant pressure boundary or included in Quality Group B but part of the following:
- (b) cooling water and seal water systems or portions of those systems important to safety that are designed for the functioning of components and systems important to safety, such as reactor coolant pumps, diesels, and the control room The classification of the CCW system inside containment did not appear to be consistent with the guidance of Regulatory Guide 1.26. In addition, industry guidance provided by ANSI/ANS 51.1 - 1983 indicated that closed systems inside containment (with single active isolation valves) should be class 2 or class 3.
2. FSAR Section 6.7 addressed class C1 containment penetrations stating, These
lines are protected from missiles originating inside the containment and the lines themselves form the boundary of the containment. The inspectors questioned whether it was appropriate to classify a portion of the containment boundary as non-safety-related for the purpose of inspection, testing, and repairs.
The licensee has stated that the CCW system classification is in accordance with their current licensing basis. This position is primarily based on the NRCs evaluation of SEP Topic III-4,c, dated September 21, 1981, the CCW system being protected from internal missiles, and seismic events not being postulated to occur coincidently with a LOCA.
Resolution of this issue will be based on clarification of Palisades licensing basis.
Pending resolution, this item will be tracked as an URI. [URI 05000255/2014008-11, Classification of CCW Piping and Components Inside the Reactor Containment Building.]
- (12) Component Cooling Water System Licensing Bases
Introduction:
The inspectors identified an Unresolved Item (URI) regarding the licensing bases for the Component Cooling Water (CCW) system. Specifically, the inspectors require clarification as to what failures of the CCW system the licensee needs to postulate and evaluate. The NRC will conduct further inspection to determine when these changes to the licensing bases occurred.
Description:
As part of the 2014 Component Design Bases Inspection (CDBI), the inspectors selected CCW pump P-52B and relief valve RV-0956 for review. Both of these components were part of the CCW system. The CCW system was designed as a closed cycle system, where both trains share a common suction and common discharge header. This means that although there were redundant pumps and heat exchangers, the system's piping was not designed to be redundant and a single pipe break or failure of the pressure boundary could result in the complete loss of CCW. One of CCW's safety functions was to transfer heat from the reactor and containment (post-Design Bases Events/Accidents) to the ultimate heat sink. Another important safety function for CCW was to provide cooling to the Engineered Safeguard Systems' (ESS) and containment spray (CS) pumps. Per the licensees design bases, cooling to the ESS pumps was required to maintain their operability.
When reviewing the licensing bases for the plant, it was not clear what type of failures needed to postulated for the CCW system under post-accident conditions. The licensee's position was postulating a passive failure of CCW concurrent with a design bases accident (DBA) was not within their licensing bases. The licensee's position was that no active single failure, according to their definition in FSAR Section 1.4.16, would render CCW inoperable. They also considered a postulated failure of the non-safety-related portion of the CCW system inside containment as beyond design bases, except as result of a seismic event which was not postulated to occur in conjunction with an accident.
Currently, the licensee credits post-accident heat being removed from containment by a combination of containment air coolers (CAC) and the containment spray (CS) system.
The CAC are supplied by service water and are independent of the CCW system. Per the current design, the licensee needs either two CS pumps or one CS pump and three CACs. Both alternatives require the CCW system to remove heat from the CS system.
However, the original design took credit for the CS and the CAC as independent and redundant in their capability to remove heat from the containment. In other words, originally the licensee needed either two CS pumps or three CACs. Additionally, the original design allowed for the capability to swap cooling water to the ESS pumps from CCW to service water remotely from the main control room (MCR). Both of these design flexibilities have been either lost or eliminated due to subsequent design changes.
The inspectors noted the agency staff had previously evaluated the susceptibility of CCW to loss of function following certain assumed CCW pipe breaks during the Systematic Evaluation Program(SEP). This was documented on SEP Topic IX-3, Station Service and Cooling Water Systems Palisades, February 22, 1982. The agency staff had concluded the CCW design was not in conformance with GDC 44, regarding capability and redundancy of essential functions of the system. However, the staff noted the essential functions of CCW could be performed by other systems under all operating conditions. The SEP evaluation explicitly addressed a passive failure of the CCW system under post-accident conditions and concluded that the CACs would be capable of removing heat from containment.
The inspectors were concerned that if the CCW system became inoperable as the result of non-safety-related component failures, the plant would no longer have the redundant capability to remove heat from the containment during a DBA, or provide alternate cooling to the ESS pumps from the MCR. In addition, the inspectors needed to clarify the licensing bases regarding a postulated loss of CCW concurrent with a design bases accident.
This issue is unresolved pending further inspection to determine when these changes to the licensing bases occurred. [URI 05000255/2014008-12, Component Cooling Water System Licensing Bases]
.4 Operating Experience
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors reviewed six operating experience issues to ensure that NRC generic concerns had been adequately evaluated and addressed by the licensee. The operating experience issues listed below were reviewed as part of this inspection:
- Information Notice 1988-45, Problems in Protective Relay and Circuit Breaker Coordination;
- Information Notice 2010-09, Importance of Understanding Circuit Breaker Control Panel Indications;
- Information Notice 2010- 11, Potential for Steam Voiding Causing Residual Heat Removal System Inoperability;
- Regulatory Issue Summary 2013-05, NRC Position On The Relationship Between General Design Criteria and Technical Specification Operability;
- NRC-21-2013-60-00 and -01, K-Line Circuit Breaker Primary Close Latch; and
- IER-L4-13-54, Unprotected DC Ammeters Result in Unanalyzed Condition.
b. Findings
No findings of significance were identified.
.5 Modifications
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors reviewed one permanent plant modification related to selected risk significant components to verify that the design bases, licensing bases, and performance capability of the components had not been degraded through modifications. The modification listed below was reviewed as part of this inspection effort:
b. Findings
No findings of significance were identified.
.6 Operating Procedure Accident Scenarios
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors performed a detailed review of the operator actions and the procedures listed below associated with the selected components and associated with risk important operator actions. For the procedures listed, simulator scenarios were observed as applicable, and in-plant actions were walked down with a non-licensed operator or a licensed operator as appropriate. These activities were performed to determine whether there was sufficient information to perform the procedure, whether the steps could reasonably be performed in the available time, and whether the necessary tools and equipment were available. The procedures were compared to FSAR and design assumptions. In addition, the procedures were reviewed to ensure the procedure steps would accomplish the desired results.
The following Time Critical Operator Actions (TCAs) and accidents were reviewed:
- TCA 1: Enable Closure of the ESS recirculation valves on RAS,
- TCA 6: Align hot leg injection,
- TCA 44: Switch CR HVAC to Emergency Mode,
- TCA 47: ESS Suction Header Cross-Tie,
- Large Break Loss of Coolant Accident (LBLOCA),
- Mode 4 Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA).
The following procedures were reviewed:
- Administrative Procedure TCA, Control of Time Critical Operator Actions, Revision 3;
- Emergency Operating Procedure Basis EOP TCA, EOP Time Critical Operator Action Basis, Revision 0;
- Emergency Operating Procedure EOP-4.0, Loss of Coolant Accident Recovery, Revision 23;
- Emergency Operating Procedure Supplement 42, Pre and Post RAS Actions, Revision 7
- Abnormal Operating Procedure AOP-30, Loss of Shutdown Cooling, Revision 1.
b. Findings
No findings of significance were identified.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
4OA2 Identification and Resolution of Problems
.1 Review of Items Entered Into the Corrective Action Program
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors reviewed a sample of the selected component problems that were identified by the licensee and entered into the Corrective Action Program. The inspectors reviewed these issues to verify an appropriate threshold for identifying issues and to evaluate the effectiveness of corrective actions related to design issues. In addition, corrective action documents written on issues identified during the inspection were reviewed to verify adequate problem identification and incorporation of the problem into the Corrective Action Program. The specific corrective action documents that were sampled and reviewed by the inspectors are listed in the attachment to this report.
The inspectors also selected six issues that were identified during previous CDBIs to verify the concern was adequately evaluated and corrective actions were identified and implemented to resolve the concern, as necessary. The following issues were reviewed:
- NCV 05000255/2006009-08, Emergency Diesel Generator Fuel Transfer System Temperature Ratings;
- NCV 05000255/2006009-10, Potential for Safety Injection and Refueling Water Tank Level Switch Setpoints to be Outside Technical Specification Limit;
- NCV 05000255/2008009-01, Inadequate Analysis of Emergency Diesel Generator 1-2 Loading During Design Basis Events;
- NCV 05000255/2008009-02, Failure to Establish Correct Technical Specification Limits;
- NCV 05000255/2011009-01, Failure to Adequately Evaluate the Enclosure Installed Over the 1F/1G Buses; and
- NCV 05000255/2011009-03, Procedures Were Not Appropriate To Address Gas Accumulation Issues
b. Findings
- (1) Non-Conservative Surveillance for Emergency Diesel Generator Largest Load Reject Test
Introduction:
A finding of very low safety significance and associated Non-Cited Violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, was identified by the inspectors for the licensees failure to have adequate acceptance criteria in the emergency diesel generator surveillance procedures. Specifically, the licensee failed to ensure the surveillance test procedures for the emergency diesel generator largest load reject test bounded the power demand of the largest load, as required by Technical Specification SR 3.8.1.5 based upon full load reject testing.
Description:
Palisades Technical Specification Surveillance Requirement SR 3.8.1.5 requires verification of the emergency diesel generator response following rejection of a load greater than or equal to its associated single largest post-accident load. On June 20, 2013, the licensee issued Technical Specification Surveillance Procedure RE-132, Diesel Generator 1-2 Load Reject, Revision 6. This procedure specifies, in Step 5.3.11, that the emergency diesel generator be loaded to 325 to 375 kw in preparation for the load reject test. On August 6, 2014, the licensee issued calculation EA-ELEC-LDTAB-005, Emergency Diesel Generators 1-1 and 1-2 Steady State Loadings, Revision 10, which includes documentation of the magnitudes of the emergency diesel generator loads. The inspectors asked the licensee to compare the calculation data with the procedure criterion for a minimum test load of 325kW. The licensee concluded that, according to the calculation, the largest single emergency diesel generator load is High Pressure Safety Injection Pump P-66A, which has a power demand of 360.25kW. Thus, surveillance Procedure RE-132 allows an emergency diesel generator load test value (325kW) that does not bound the magnitude of the generators single largest load (360.25kW).
The licensee entered this issue into their Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4679 and CR-PLP-2014-4680 for Emergency Diesel Generators 1-1 and 1-2, respectively, with recommended actions to revise the surveillance procedure minimum load limit for the load reject test to bound the magnitudes of the single largest loads. The licensee also verified current operability by confirming the emergency diesel generators are capable of performing as required by SR 3.8.1.5.
Analysis:
The inspectors determined the failure to have adequate acceptance criteria in the emergency diesel generator surveillance procedure was contrary to 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, and was a performance deficiency. The finding was determined to be more than minor because the finding was associated with the Procedure Quality attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. Specifically, the surveillance procedure error could result in acceptance of test results that did not satisfy Technical Specification SR 3.8.1.5 for rejection of a load greater than or equal to the emergency diesel generators single largest post-accident load.
The inspectors assessed this finding for significance in accordance with NRC Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, Exhibit 2, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, and determined that it was of very low safety significance (Green),because the SSC maintained its operability and functionality. This finding has a cross-cutting aspect in the area of Human Performance, associated with the Resources component, because the licensee did not ensure that personnel, equipment, procedures, and other resources are adequate to assure nuclear safety by maintaining long term plant safety. [H.1]
Enforcement:
Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XI, Test Control, requires, in part, A test program shall be established to assure that all testing required to demonstrate that structures, systems, and components will perform satisfactorily in service is identified and performed in accordance with written test procedures which incorporate the requirements and acceptance limits contained in applicable design documents. Contrary to the above, on June 20, 2013, the licensee failed to assure that written test procedures incorporate requirements contained in applicable design documents. Specifically, the licensee revised Technical Specification Surveillance Procedure RE-132, Diesel Generator 1-2 Load Reject, but failed to identify that the specified kW level for the largest load rejection test did not bound the largest predicted post-accident load.
Because this violation was of very low safety significance, and it was entered into the licensees Corrective Action Program as CR-PLP-2014-4679 and CR-PLP-2014-4680, this violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2 of the NRC Enforcement Policy. [NCV 05000255/2014008-13, Non-Conservative Surveillance for Emergency Diesel Generator Largest Load Reject Test.]
4OA5 Other Activities
.1 (Closed) Unresolved Item (URI) 05000255/2012005-05: Concerns With The
Methodology Used To Determine Suction Side Void Acceptance Criteria On January 11, 2008, the NRC requested each addressee of GL 2008-01 to evaluate its emergency core cooling, decay heat removal, and containment spray systems licensing basis, design, testing, and corrective actions to ensure gas accumulation was maintained less than the amount which would challenge the operability of these systems, and take appropriate actions when conditions adverse to quality were identified. In order to determine what amount of gas could challenge the operability of the subject systems, the licensee needed to develop appropriate acceptance criteria for evaluating identified voids. As part of this effort, the licensee developed acceptance criteria for evaluating voids identified in the suction side of the subject systems pumps.
During subsequent inspections the inspectors identified a concern with the methodology used by the licensee to develop acceptance criteria for suction side voids. At the time of the inspection the acceptance criteria was inconsistent with the 0.5-second criterion recommended by the Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation (NRR) in TI 2515/177 Inspection Guidance (ML111660749). The NRR-recommended methodology was more conservative because it ensured there were no significant deviations exceeding the maximum recommended void fractions. However, because the licensees methodology averaged over the entire transient duration time, it allowed void volumes that could significantly exceed the recommended void fraction when the actual duration transient time was shorter than the maximum allowable duration time specified by the recommended void fraction acceptance criteria. This issue was originally captured in the licensees CAP as CR-HQN-2011-00853.
Since then, and as result of other void related violations, the licensee revised their procedures including their Gas Accumulation Management Program Document (EN-DC-219, Revision 3). The revised Program Document incorporates, by reference, the Acceptance Criteria of NEI 09-10, "Guidelines for Effective Prevention and Management of System Gas Accumulation." The NRC has issued a Safety Evaluation (SE) of the NEI 09-10, which discusses the Agency's position in regards to the use of NEI 09-10. In addition, based on the information discussed in the NEI 09-10 and the SE, the 0.5 second criterion discussed in the URI is no longer the recommended method proposed by NRR. Therefore, the inspectors concern is no longer valid, and no performance deficiency or violation of regulatory requirements exists. This unresolved item is closed.
4OA6 Management Meeting(s)
.1 Exit Meeting Summary
On November 4, 2014, the inspectors presented the inspection results to Mr. Vitale, and other members of the licensee staff. The licensee acknowledged the issues presented.
The inspectors asked the licensee if the inspectors had proprietary materials that should be returned. The inspectors verified that no proprietary information was retained by the inspectors or documented in this report.
.2 Followup Exit Meeting Summary
On November 4, 2014, the inspectors conducted a follow-up exit by phone with Mr.
Vitale, and other members of the licensee staff. This meeting updated the status of two concerns that were open at the time of the on-site exit. The licensee acknowledged the issues presented.
4OA7 Licensee-Identified Violations
The following violation of very low safety significance (Green) was identified by the licensee and is a violation of NRC requirements which meets the criteria of the NRC Enforcement Policy, for being dispositioned as a Non-Cited Violation.
- Technical Specification 5.4.1.a, requires written procedures shall be established, implemented, and maintained as recommended in Regulatory Guide 1.33, Item (b), Administrative Procedures implementing the Authorities and Responsibilities for Safe Operation and Shutdown. Procedure 4.48, Revision 3, Control of Time Critical Operator Actions. Requires that Time Critical Operator Actions (TCAs)revalidated every two years. Contrary to the above, on July 23, 2014, the licensee found no evidence that TCA revalidation was performed since 2011.
The licensee determined timing information could not be found for the following TCA validations:
- TCA 10: Align Shutdown Cooling (SDC), and
- TCA 46: Station Battery Load Stripping.
This issue was determined to be more than minor, because it impacted the Procedure Quality attribute of the Reactor Safety, Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. The licensee documented this issue in CR-PLP-2014-03841, dated July 23, 2014. The finding was determined to be of very low safety significance (Green) because all questions were answered no for Exhibit 2 - Mitigating Systems Screening Questions in Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Appendix A, Significance Determination Process (SDP) For Findings At-Power.
ATTACHMENT:
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
KEY POINTS OF CONTACT
Licensee
- T. Vitale, Site Vice President
- T. Williams, General Manager, Plant Operations
- B. Davis, Engineering Director
- D. Corbin, Operations Manager
- J. Borah, System Engineering Manager
- K. OConnor, Design Engineering Manager
- J. Hardy, Regulatory Assurance Manager
- B. Sova, Engineering Supervisor
- T. Fouty, Engineering Supervisor
- L. Engelke, Engineering Supervisor
- K. Yeager, Engineering Supervisor
- D. MacMaster, Engineering Supervisor
- R. Scudder, Operations Specialist
- B. Dotson, Regulatory Assurance Specialist
- T. Davis, Regulatory Assurance Specialist
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
LIST OF ITEMS OPENED, CLOSED, AND DISCUSSED
Opened
- 05000255/2014008-01 NCV Failure to Ensure Engineered Safeguards Systems Arent Adversely Affected By Air Entrainment (Section 1R21.3.b(1))
- 05000255/2014008-02 NCV Undersized Supply Cables from Startup Transformer to 2400V Buses (Section 1R21.3.b(2))
- 05000255/2014008-03 NCV Undersized Motors (Section 1R21.3.b(3))
- 05000255/2014008-04 NCV Failure to Ensure that 480V System Voltages do not Exceed Equipment Ratings (Section 1R21.3.b(4))
- 05000255/2014008-05 NCV Failure to Perform Comprehensive Pump Testing of Containment Spray Pump P-54A in accordance with the Inservice Testing Program (Section 1R21.3.b(5))
- 05000255/2014008-06 NCV Failure to Correctly Translate Valve Leakage Limits into Test Procedure (Section 1R21.3.b(6))
- 05000255/2014008-07 NCV Failure to Identify Non-Safety-Related Sub-Components Improperly Supplied with Safety-Related Valves (Section 1R21.3.b(7))
- 05000255/2014008-08 NCV Failure to Establish an Adequate Test Program for the Shutdown Cooling Heat Exchangers (Section 1R21.3.b(8))
Attachment
- 05000255/2014008-09 NCV Failure To Include The Degraded Voltage Channel Time Delay In TS Surveillance Requirement 3.3.5.2.a (Section 1R21.3.b(9))
- 05000255/2014008-10 URI Lack of Analysis for Electrical Containment Penetration Protection (Section 1R21.3.b(10))
- 05000255/2014008-11 URI Classification of CCW Piping and Components Inside the Reactor Containment Building (Section 1R21.3.b(11))
- 05000255/2014008-12 URI Component Cooling Water System Licensing Bases (Section 1R21.3.b(12))
- 05000255/2014008-13 NCV Non-Conservative Surveillance for Emergency Diesel Generator Largest Load Reject Test (Section 4OA2.1.b(1))
Closed
- 05000255/2014008-01 NCV Failure to Ensure Engineered Safeguards Systems Arent Adversely Affected By Air Entrainment (Section 1R21.3.b(1))
- 05000255/2014008-02 NCV Undersized Supply Cables from Startup Transformer to 2400V Buses (Section 1R21.3.b(2))
- 05000255/2014008-03 NCV Undersized Motors (Section 1R21.3.b(3))
- 05000255/2014008-04 NCV Failure to Ensure that 480V System Voltages do not Exceed Equipment Ratings (Section 1R21.3.b(4))
- 05000255/2014008-06 NCV Failure to Perform Comprehensive Pump Testing of Containment Spray Pump P-54A in accordance with the Inservice Testing Program (Section 1R21.3.b(6))
- 05000255/2014008-07 NCV Failure to Correctly Translate Valve Leakage Limits into Test Procedure (Section 1R21.3.b(7))
- 05000255/2014008-08 NCV Failure to Identify Non-Safety-Related Sub-Components Improperly Supplied with Safety-Related Valves (Section 1R21.3.b(8))
- 05000255/2014008-09 NCV Failure to Establish an Adequate Test Program for the Shutdown Cooling Heat Exchangers (Section 1R21.3.b(9))
- 05000255/2014008-10 NCV Failure To Include The Degraded Voltage Channel Time Delay In TS Surveillance Requirement 3.3.5.2.a (Section 1R21.3.b(10))
- 05000255/2014008-13 NCV Non-Conservative Surveillance for Emergency Diesel Generator Largest Load Reject Test (Section 4OA2.1.b(1))
- 05000255/2012005-05 URI Concerns With The Methodology Used To Determine Suction Side Void Acceptance Criteria (Section 4OA5.1)
Discussed
None