GO2-08-124, License Amendment Request for Proposed Changes to Columbia Technical Specification 3.3.3.1; Change Group 1 Primary Containment Isolation Valves Reactor Water Level Isolation Signal from Level 2 to Level 1: Difference between revisions
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| issue date = 09/09/2008 | | issue date = 09/09/2008 | ||
| title = License Amendment Request for Proposed Changes to Columbia Technical Specification 3.3.3.1; Change Group 1 Primary Containment Isolation Valves Reactor Water Level Isolation Signal from Level 2 to Level 1 | | title = License Amendment Request for Proposed Changes to Columbia Technical Specification 3.3.3.1; Change Group 1 Primary Containment Isolation Valves Reactor Water Level Isolation Signal from Level 2 to Level 1 | ||
| author name = Gambhir S | | author name = Gambhir S | ||
| author affiliation = Energy Northwest | | author affiliation = Energy Northwest | ||
| addressee name = | | addressee name = | ||
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==Subject:== | ==Subject:== | ||
COLUMBIA GENERATING STATION, DOCKET NO. 50-397 LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 References; | COLUMBIA GENERATING STATION, DOCKET NO. 50-397 LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 References; | ||
: 1) NUREG-1433, "Standard Technical Specifications General Electric Plants, BWR/4," Volume 1, Revision 3.2) NUREG-1434, "Standard Technical Specifications General Electric Plants, BWR/6," Volume 1, Revision 3. | : 1) NUREG-1433, "Standard Technical Specifications General Electric Plants, BWR/4," Volume 1, Revision 3.2) NUREG-1434, "Standard Technical Specifications General Electric Plants, BWR/6," Volume 1, Revision 3. | ||
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==SUMMARY== | ==SUMMARY== | ||
DESCRIPTION | DESCRIPTION | ||
: 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION | : 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION 2.1 Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation (TS 3.3.6.1)2.2 Reason for the Amendment 3. TECHNICAL EVALUATION | ||
Containment Isolation Instrumentation (TS 3.3.6.1)2.2 Reason for the Amendment 3. TECHNICAL EVALUATION | |||
===3.1 System Description=== | ===3.1 System Description=== | ||
3.2 Applicable FSAR Text and Figures 3.3 Analytical Methods, Applicable Standards, Data, and Results 3.4 Technical Details in Support of Safety Arguments 3.4.1 Loss of Feedwater Analysis 3.4.2 LOCA Analysis 3.4.3 ATWS -Loss of Feedwater Analysis 3.4.4 Conclusions Based on Transient Analysis 3.5 Relationship to Other Relevant Amendments and NRC Issues 3.6 Summary 4. REGULATORY EVALUATION 4.1 Applicable Regulatory Requirements and Criteria 4.2 Precedent 4.3 Significant Hazards Consideration 4.4 Conclusions | |||
FSAR Text and Figures 3.3 Analytical Methods, Applicable Standards, Data, and Results 3.4 Technical Details in Support of Safety Arguments 3.4.1 Loss of Feedwater Analysis 3.4.2 LOCA Analysis 3.4.3 ATWS -Loss of Feedwater Analysis 3.4.4 Conclusions Based on Transient Analysis 3.5 Relationship to Other Relevant Amendments and NRC Issues 3.6 Summary 4. REGULATORY EVALUATION | |||
Regulatory Requirements and Criteria 4.2 Precedent 4.3 Significant Hazards Consideration | |||
: 5. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATION | : 5. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATION | ||
: 6. REFERENCES ATTACHMENTS: | : 6. REFERENCES ATTACHMENTS: | ||
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DESCRIPTION This evaluation supports a request to amend the Technical Specifications for Columbia Generating Station (Columbia). | DESCRIPTION This evaluation supports a request to amend the Technical Specifications for Columbia Generating Station (Columbia). | ||
The proposed change would revise the Technical Specifications (TS) to lower the Group 1 primary containment isolation valves reactor pressure vessel (RPV) water level isolation signal from Level 2 (L2) to Level 1 (L1). The proposed change would affect TS 3.3.6.1, Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation. | The proposed change would revise the Technical Specifications (TS) to lower the Group 1 primary containment isolation valves reactor pressure vessel (RPV) water level isolation signal from Level 2 (L2) to Level 1 (L1). The proposed change would affect TS 3.3.6.1, Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation. | ||
: 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION | : 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION 2.1 Change to Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation (TS 3.3.6.1)This license amendment request (LAR) seeks to revise Table 3.3.6.1-1 "Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation." Specifically, Item l.a of Table 3.3.6.1-1 will be revised to reflect a Group 1 isolation signal initiation will occur on "Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low Low Low, Level 1" with the allowable value of "_-1 42.3 inches." This value is consistent with the Emergency Core Cooling System (ECCS) Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low Low Low, Level 1 allowable value in TS 3.3.5.1.2.2 Reason for the Amendment Energy Northwest is submitting the LAR b~ecause it will allow more energy to be released to the main condenser, rather than to the suppression pool, prior to isolation of the main steam isolation valves (MSIVs) after a reactor scram. Implementation of this change will allow the plant operators to control the RPV pressure following the initial transient without the use of safety relief valves (SRVs). This reduces the potential to present additional challenges to the plant operations staff and, therefore, reduces the probability of more risk-significant scrams. By removing this energy through the condenser rather than the suppression pool, the nuclear steam supply system (NSSS)safety is improved from the standpoint of reducing SRV challenges (and the potential for stuck open SRVs) and mitigating (along with other systems) the consequences of Anticipated Transient Without Scram (ATWS) events. Additionally, the proposed configuration is typical in other boiling water reactor (BWR) 4 and BWR 5 plants, as well as the BWR 6 plants that General Electric (GE) designed with the Group 1 isolation signal at LI.3. TECHNICAL EVALUATION | ||
to Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation (TS 3.3.6.1)This license amendment request (LAR) seeks to revise Table 3.3.6.1-1 "Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation." Specifically, Item l.a of Table 3.3.6.1-1 will be revised to reflect a Group 1 isolation signal initiation will occur on "Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low Low Low, Level 1" with the allowable value of "_-1 42.3 inches." This value is consistent with the Emergency Core Cooling System (ECCS) Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low Low Low, Level 1 allowable value in TS 3.3.5.1.2.2 Reason for the Amendment Energy Northwest is submitting the LAR b~ecause it will allow more energy to be released to the main condenser, rather than to the suppression pool, prior to isolation of the main steam isolation valves (MSIVs) after a reactor scram. Implementation of this change will allow the plant operators to control the RPV pressure following the initial transient without the use of safety relief valves (SRVs). This reduces the potential to present additional challenges to the plant operations staff and, therefore, reduces the probability of more risk-significant scrams. By removing this energy through the condenser rather than the suppression pool, the nuclear steam supply system (NSSS)safety is improved from the standpoint of reducing SRV challenges (and the potential for stuck open SRVs) and mitigating (along with other systems) the consequences of Anticipated Transient Without Scram (ATWS) events. Additionally, the proposed configuration is typical in other boiling water reactor (BWR) 4 and BWR 5 plants, as well as the BWR 6 plants that General Electric (GE) designed with the Group 1 isolation signal at LI.3. TECHNICAL EVALUATION | |||
===3.1 System Description=== | ===3.1 System Description=== | ||
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LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 3 of 20 One function of RPV L2 is to close the Group 1 isolation valves when the setpoint is reached. The Group 1 isolation valves include the MSIVs and the main steam line drain valves as show in Table 3-2.3.2 Applicable FSAR Text and Figures Final Safety Analysis Report (FSAR) Section 7.3.1.1.2, Primary Containment and Reactor Vessel Isolation Control System (PCRVICS) and the referenced sections, tables, and figures describe the purpose, function, and design of the isolation and control systems. Anticipated (moderate frequency) operational occurrences (AOOs), off-design abnormal (unexpected) transients that induce system operating condition disturbances, and postulated accidents of low or extremely low probability (design bases accident [DBA] or limiting faults) are discussed in Chapter 15 of the FSAR. The scope of FSAR Chapter 15 will collectively be referred to as "transient analyses" throughout this document. | LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 3 of 20 One function of RPV L2 is to close the Group 1 isolation valves when the setpoint is reached. The Group 1 isolation valves include the MSIVs and the main steam line drain valves as show in Table 3-2.3.2 Applicable FSAR Text and Figures Final Safety Analysis Report (FSAR) Section 7.3.1.1.2, Primary Containment and Reactor Vessel Isolation Control System (PCRVICS) and the referenced sections, tables, and figures describe the purpose, function, and design of the isolation and control systems. Anticipated (moderate frequency) operational occurrences (AOOs), off-design abnormal (unexpected) transients that induce system operating condition disturbances, and postulated accidents of low or extremely low probability (design bases accident [DBA] or limiting faults) are discussed in Chapter 15 of the FSAR. The scope of FSAR Chapter 15 will collectively be referred to as "transient analyses" throughout this document. | ||
The design bases for containment systems and ECCS are discussed in FSAR Section 6.2 and 6.3, respectively. | The design bases for containment systems and ECCS are discussed in FSAR Section 6.2 and 6.3, respectively. | ||
3.3 Analytical Methods, Applicable Standards, Data, and Results The technical evaluation demonstrates that lowering the RPV water level at which the Group 1 isolation valves initiate from L2 to LI will not reduce the level of protection offered by the design. The evaluation also supports the conclusion that the proposed amendment warrants a finding of no significant hazards. The technical evaluation considers the effect of the proposed change on the transient analyses for Columbia.The specific events evaluated in the report are the same as those defined in Columbia FSAR Chapter 15 (Reference 6.3).Energy Northwest examined each transient event with the Group 1 isolation signal at both L2 and Li to determine if a Group 1 isolation on low RPV water level would occur for a given event. If the Group 1 isolation did not initiate due to L2, the lower initiation setting of LI would have no impact. This effectively screened out the events that did not need to be reevaluated or considered as a part of this technical evaluation. | |||
Methods, Applicable Standards, Data, and Results The technical evaluation demonstrates that lowering the RPV water level at which the Group 1 isolation valves initiate from L2 to LI will not reduce the level of protection offered by the design. The evaluation also supports the conclusion that the proposed amendment warrants a finding of no significant hazards. The technical evaluation considers the effect of the proposed change on the transient analyses for Columbia.The specific events evaluated in the report are the same as those defined in Columbia FSAR Chapter 15 (Reference 6.3).Energy Northwest examined each transient event with the Group 1 isolation signal at both L2 and Li to determine if a Group 1 isolation on low RPV water level would occur for a given event. If the Group 1 isolation did not initiate due to L2, the lower initiation setting of LI would have no impact. This effectively screened out the events that did not need to be reevaluated or considered as a part of this technical evaluation. | |||
The results of this screening process are shown in Table 3-3.3.4 Technical Details in Support of Safety Arguments As shown in Table 3-3, many transients were not reanalyzed if: 1) L2 was not challenged, or 2) Group 1 isolation was initiated by a signal other than low RPV water level, or 3) the results were bounded by another event.As such, no further discussion is required for these transients. | The results of this screening process are shown in Table 3-3.3.4 Technical Details in Support of Safety Arguments As shown in Table 3-3, many transients were not reanalyzed if: 1) L2 was not challenged, or 2) Group 1 isolation was initiated by a signal other than low RPV water level, or 3) the results were bounded by another event.As such, no further discussion is required for these transients. | ||
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 4 of 20 Changing the isolation signal for the Group 1 isolation valves from L2 to LI will impact the following transients: | LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 4 of 20 Changing the isolation signal for the Group 1 isolation valves from L2 to LI will impact the following transients: | ||
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The ECCS LOCA analyses assume the Group 1 isolation occurs at the LOCA initiation. | The ECCS LOCA analyses assume the Group 1 isolation occurs at the LOCA initiation. | ||
This is conservative relative to closing the MSIVs later in the event, based on either low water level or main steam line pressure. | This is conservative relative to closing the MSIVs later in the event, based on either low water level or main steam line pressure. | ||
Closing the MSIVs at the LOCA initiation results in a bounding peak cladding temperature (PCT), therefore, the change in Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI has no effect on the ECGS LOCA analysis.Changing the Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI has no effect on the DBA-LOCA radiological release. In both cases, the L2 and LI isolations ensure the MSIVs close prior to the start of the radiological release.Therefore, Energy Northwest concluded that, with respect to LOCA, lowering the Group 1 isolation initiation signal from L2 to LI is acceptable, because lowering the isolation signal does not challenge the LOCA acceptance criteria for PCT or change the radiological consequences of a DBA-LOOA.3.4.3 ATWS -Loss of Feedwater Analysis Energy Northwest evaluated the impact of lowering the Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI on the ATWS -LOFF event. This evaluation was based. on the GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) engineering reviews and calculations of the generic evaluation performed in Reference | Closing the MSIVs at the LOCA initiation results in a bounding peak cladding temperature (PCT), therefore, the change in Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI has no effect on the ECGS LOCA analysis.Changing the Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI has no effect on the DBA-LOCA radiological release. In both cases, the L2 and LI isolations ensure the MSIVs close prior to the start of the radiological release.Therefore, Energy Northwest concluded that, with respect to LOCA, lowering the Group 1 isolation initiation signal from L2 to LI is acceptable, because lowering the isolation signal does not challenge the LOCA acceptance criteria for PCT or change the radiological consequences of a DBA-LOOA.3.4.3 ATWS -Loss of Feedwater Analysis Energy Northwest evaluated the impact of lowering the Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI on the ATWS -LOFF event. This evaluation was based. on the GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) engineering reviews and calculations of the generic evaluation performed in Reference 6.4. Lowering the isolation signal does not challenge the ATWS acceptance criteria, as summarized below: 1. The RRC pump trip at L2 reduces the reactor power because of increased void generation. | ||
the isolation signal does not challenge the ATWS acceptance criteria, as summarized below: 1. The RRC pump trip at L2 reduces the reactor power because of increased void generation. | |||
: 2. The initiation of HPCS and RCIC at L2 will make up the RPV inventory lost through the steam lines.3. The delayed isolation of the Group 1 valves will prevent excessive suppression pool heat up by maintaining the main condenser availability for as long as possible.Therefore, Energy Northwest concluded that, with respect to ATWS, lowering the Group 1 isolation initiation signal from L2 to LI is acceptable. | : 2. The initiation of HPCS and RCIC at L2 will make up the RPV inventory lost through the steam lines.3. The delayed isolation of the Group 1 valves will prevent excessive suppression pool heat up by maintaining the main condenser availability for as long as possible.Therefore, Energy Northwest concluded that, with respect to ATWS, lowering the Group 1 isolation initiation signal from L2 to LI is acceptable. | ||
For some ATWS events, maintaining the MSIVs open for a longer period of time will reduce the suppression pool LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 8 of 20 heatup without impacting the dose consequences for the event. The analysis demonstrates that the consequences of these events do not result in any temperature or pressure transient in excess of the design criteria for the fuel, the RPV, or containment. | For some ATWS events, maintaining the MSIVs open for a longer period of time will reduce the suppression pool LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 8 of 20 heatup without impacting the dose consequences for the event. The analysis demonstrates that the consequences of these events do not result in any temperature or pressure transient in excess of the design criteria for the fuel, the RPV, or containment. | ||
Therefore, barrier integrity and functions are maintained. | Therefore, barrier integrity and functions are maintained. | ||
3.4.4 Conclusions Based on Transient Analyses Energy Northwest reviewed the results of the proposed change on the impacted transient analyses, postulated accidents, and special events and concluded that lowering the Group 1 isolation signal to LI will not cause a reduction in safety margin, a reduction in plant shutdown capability, an increase in radiation release, or a decrease in core cooling capability. | |||
Based on Transient Analyses Energy Northwest reviewed the results of the proposed change on the impacted transient analyses, postulated accidents, and special events and concluded that lowering the Group 1 isolation signal to LI will not cause a reduction in safety margin, a reduction in plant shutdown capability, an increase in radiation release, or a decrease in core cooling capability. | |||
Implementation of the proposed license amendment will not result in unacceptable safety consequences as defined in FSAR Sections 15.0.3 and 15.8.0.The events which initiate the Group 1 isolation due to L2 are the LOFF, the LOCA, and the ATWS-LOFF. | Implementation of the proposed license amendment will not result in unacceptable safety consequences as defined in FSAR Sections 15.0.3 and 15.8.0.The events which initiate the Group 1 isolation due to L2 are the LOFF, the LOCA, and the ATWS-LOFF. | ||
The analyses performed in support of this proposed amendment demonstrate that the lower initiation setting of L1 has no impact on the station's ability to meet the acceptance criteria related to radioactive dose, fuel damage, and system and containment stresses. | The analyses performed in support of this proposed amendment demonstrate that the lower initiation setting of L1 has no impact on the station's ability to meet the acceptance criteria related to radioactive dose, fuel damage, and system and containment stresses. | ||
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6.3 ECCS Analysis Design basis No impact/ Cycle 19 accident LOCA analysis not impacted. | 6.3 ECCS Analysis Design basis No impact/ Cycle 19 accident LOCA analysis not impacted. | ||
See Section 3.4.2. | See Section 3.4.2. | ||
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL I Enclosure Page 17 of 20 4. REGULATORY EVALUATION | LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL I Enclosure Page 17 of 20 4. REGULATORY EVALUATION 4.1 Applicable Regqulatory Requirements and Criteria The NRC acceptance criteria for primary containment related to the proposed license amendment are based on the General Design Criteria (GDC), 10 CFR 50.36, and 10 CFR 50.46 and are summarized as follows.0 GDC-1 6, insofar as it requires that reactor containment be provided to establish an essentially leak-tight barrier against the uncontrolled release of radioactivity to the environment; 0 GDC-33, insofar as it requires that the system safety function shall be to assure that specified acceptable fuel design limits are not exceeded as a result of reactor coolant loss due to leakage from the reactor coolant pressure boundary and rupture of small piping or other small components which are part of the boundary;* GDC-35, insofar as it requires that the system safety function shall be to transfer heat from the reactor core following any loss of reactor coolant at a rate such that: o Fuel and clad damage that could interfere with continued effective core cooling is prevented and o Clad metal-water reaction is limited to negligible amounts;* GDC-50, insofar as it requires that the containment and its internal components be able to accommodate, without exceeding the design leakage rate and with sufficient margin, the calculated pressure and temperature conditions resulting from any LOCA;0 GDC-54 insofar as it requires that piping systems penetrating primary reactor containment shall be provided with leak detection, isolation, and containment capabilities having redundancy, reliability, and performance capabilities which reflect the importance to safety of isolating these piping systems;* 10 CFR 50.36, insofar as it specifies those requirements that should be included in TS; and* 10 CFR 50.46, insofar as it requires that the ECCS be designed so that its calculated cooling performance following postulated loss-of-coolant accidents conforms to the criteria set forth in paragraph (b) of 10 CFR 50.46.The objective of Item I1.K.3.16 of NUREG-0737, "TMI Action Plan Requirements," (Reference 6.1) is to reduce the potential challenges and failures of SRVs. In response to this requirement, the BWR Owners Group (BWROG) submitted the results of a feasibility study and evaluation of various actions and modifications, which might reduce the challenges and failures of SRVs. One recommendation was to lower the MSIV closure, signal from L2 to LI. The Columbia response to NUREG-0737, Item I1.K.3.16 did not include implementation of the isolation signal change from L2 to LI because Energy Northwest had installed SRVs with improved reliability. | ||
However, the change was implemented at a number of other BWR 4 and BWR 5 plants, as described in Section 4.2 and Reference 6.2. | |||
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 18 of 20 4.2 Precedent The proposed change is similar to license amendments 50 and 33 (ML021130102), issued to Commonwealth Edison Company on May 6, 1987, for LaSalle County Station Units 1 & 2, respectively. | |||
Regqulatory Requirements and Criteria The NRC acceptance criteria for primary containment related to the proposed license amendment are based on the General Design Criteria (GDC), 10 CFR 50.36, and 10 CFR 50.46 and are summarized as follows.0 GDC-1 6, insofar as it requires that reactor containment be provided to establish an essentially leak-tight barrier against the uncontrolled release of radioactivity to the environment; 0 GDC-33, insofar as it requires that the system safety function shall be to assure that specified acceptable fuel design limits are not exceeded as a result of reactor coolant loss due to leakage from the reactor coolant pressure boundary and rupture of small piping or other small components which are part of the boundary;* GDC-35, insofar as it requires that the system safety function shall be to transfer heat from the reactor core following any loss of reactor coolant at a rate such that: o Fuel and clad damage that could interfere with continued effective core cooling is prevented and o Clad metal-water reaction is limited to negligible amounts;* GDC-50, insofar as it requires that the containment and its internal components be able to accommodate, without exceeding the design leakage rate and with sufficient margin, the calculated pressure and temperature conditions resulting from any LOCA;0 GDC-54 insofar as it requires that piping systems penetrating primary reactor containment shall be provided with leak detection, isolation, and containment capabilities having redundancy, reliability, and performance capabilities which reflect the importance to safety of isolating these piping systems;* 10 CFR 50.36, insofar as it specifies those requirements that should be included in TS; and* 10 CFR 50.46, insofar as it requires that the ECCS be designed so that its calculated cooling performance following postulated loss-of-coolant accidents conforms to the criteria set forth in paragraph (b) of 10 CFR 50.46.The objective of Item I1.K.3.16 of NUREG-0737, "TMI Action Plan Requirements," (Reference 6.1) is to reduce the potential challenges and failures of SRVs. In response to this requirement, the BWR Owners Group (BWROG) submitted the results of a feasibility study and evaluation of various actions and modifications, which might reduce the challenges and failures of SRVs. One recommendation was to lower the MSIV closure, signal from L2 to LI. The Columbia response to NUREG-0737, Item I1.K.3.16 did not include implementation of the isolation signal change from L2 to LI because Energy Northwest had installed SRVs with improved reliability. | |||
However, the change was implemented at a number of other BWR 4 and BWR 5 plants, as described in Section 4.2 and Reference | |||
AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 18 of 20 4.2 Precedent The proposed change is similar to license amendments 50 and 33 (ML021130102), issued to Commonwealth Edison Company on May 6, 1987, for LaSalle County Station Units 1 & 2, respectively. | |||
The 1987 amendment "revised the LaSalle County Station, Units 1 and 2 Technical Specifications to change the Group I Main Steam Isolation Valves' closure signal from Reactor Pressure Vessel Level 2 to Level 1." Like Columbia, LaSalle is a BWR 5 plant with a Mark II containment structure. | The 1987 amendment "revised the LaSalle County Station, Units 1 and 2 Technical Specifications to change the Group I Main Steam Isolation Valves' closure signal from Reactor Pressure Vessel Level 2 to Level 1." Like Columbia, LaSalle is a BWR 5 plant with a Mark II containment structure. | ||
The NRC issued similar amendments to the following BWR 4 plants with Mark I containments: " Cooper Nuclear Station, Amendment 83, dated May 4, 1983 (ML021350409)" Browns Ferry, Units 1, 2, and 3, Amendments 112, 106, and 80, dated September 19, 1984 (ML013650008) | The NRC issued similar amendments to the following BWR 4 plants with Mark I containments: " Cooper Nuclear Station, Amendment 83, dated May 4, 1983 (ML021350409)" Browns Ferry, Units 1, 2, and 3, Amendments 112, 106, and 80, dated September 19, 1984 (ML013650008) | ||
* Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station, Units 2 and 3, Amendments 111 and 115, dated October 2, 1985 (ML021570504)" Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, Unit 2, Amendment 25, dated April 1, 1986 (ML010180043) (Susquehanna has a Mark II containment.)" FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant, Amendment 103, dated December 19, 1986 (ML010610096) | * Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station, Units 2 and 3, Amendments 111 and 115, dated October 2, 1985 (ML021570504)" Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, Unit 2, Amendment 25, dated April 1, 1986 (ML010180043) (Susquehanna has a Mark II containment.)" FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant, Amendment 103, dated December 19, 1986 (ML010610096) 4.3 SiQnificant Hazards Consideration Pursuant to 10 CFR 50.90, Energy Northwest hereby requests an amendment to the Columbia TS. The proposed changes modify TS 3.3.6.1, "Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation." The proposed change lowers the primary containment Group 1 isolation valves low RPV water level isolation signal from L2 to LI.Energy Northwest has evaluated whether or not a significant hazards consideration is involved with the proposed amendment by focusing on the three standards set forth in 10 CFR 50.92, "Issuance of amendment," as discussed below: 1. Does the proposed amendment involve a significant increase in the probabil ity or consequences of an accident previously evaluated? | ||
Hazards Consideration Pursuant to 10 CFR 50.90, Energy Northwest hereby requests an amendment to the Columbia TS. The proposed changes modify TS 3.3.6.1, "Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation." The proposed change lowers the primary containment Group 1 isolation valves low RPV water level isolation signal from L2 to LI.Energy Northwest has evaluated whether or not a significant hazards consideration is involved with the proposed amendment by focusing on the three standards set forth in 10 CFR 50.92, "Issuance of amendment," as discussed below: 1. Does the proposed amendment involve a significant increase in the probabil ity or consequences of an accident previously evaluated? | |||
Response: | Response: | ||
No.Lowering the Group 1 isolation signal does not increase the probability of an accident, it changes only the level at which the isolation valves close. Isolation of the Group 1 valves occurs in response to lowering RPV water level during some transient events. As such, the isolation of Group 1 valves on lowering water level, which occurs in response to transients, is not an initiator of any transient or accident previously evaluated. | No.Lowering the Group 1 isolation signal does not increase the probability of an accident, it changes only the level at which the isolation valves close. Isolation of the Group 1 valves occurs in response to lowering RPV water level during some transient events. As such, the isolation of Group 1 valves on lowering water level, which occurs in response to transients, is not an initiator of any transient or accident previously evaluated. | ||
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Therefore barrier integrity and functions are maintained. | Therefore barrier integrity and functions are maintained. | ||
For these reasons, the margin of safety is not reduced for any impacted event.Implementation of the proposed amendment would improve the margin of safety, in terms of reducing the probability of risk-significant scrams and reducing the amount of energy required to be absorbed by the suppression pool for some events. Therefore, the proposed change does not involve a significant reduction in a margin of safety.Based on the above, Energy Northwest concludes that the proposed amendment does not involve a significant hazards consideration under the standards set forth in 10 CFR 50.92(c), and, accordingly, a finding of "no significant hazards consideration" is justified. | For these reasons, the margin of safety is not reduced for any impacted event.Implementation of the proposed amendment would improve the margin of safety, in terms of reducing the probability of risk-significant scrams and reducing the amount of energy required to be absorbed by the suppression pool for some events. Therefore, the proposed change does not involve a significant reduction in a margin of safety.Based on the above, Energy Northwest concludes that the proposed amendment does not involve a significant hazards consideration under the standards set forth in 10 CFR 50.92(c), and, accordingly, a finding of "no significant hazards consideration" is justified. | ||
4.4 Conclusions In conclusion, based on the considerations discussed above, (1) there is reasonable assurance that the health and safety of the public will not be endangered by operation in the proposed manner, (2) such activities will be conducted in compliance with the Commission's regulations, and (3) the issuance of the amendment will not be inimical to the common defense and security or to the health and safety of the public.5. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATION The proposed amendment does not involve (1) a significant hazards consideration, (2) a significant change in the types or significant increase in the amounts of any effluent that may be released offsite, or (3) a significant increase in individual or cumulative occupational radiation exposure. | |||
In conclusion, based on the considerations discussed above, (1) there is reasonable assurance that the health and safety of the public will not be endangered by operation in the proposed manner, (2) such activities will be conducted in compliance with the Commission's regulations, and (3) the issuance of the amendment will not be inimical to the common defense and security or to the health and safety of the public.5. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATION The proposed amendment does not involve (1) a significant hazards consideration, (2) a significant change in the types or significant increase in the amounts of any effluent that may be released offsite, or (3) a significant increase in individual or cumulative occupational radiation exposure. | |||
Accordingly, the proposed amendment meets the eligibility criterion for categorical exclusion set forth in 10 CFR 51.22(c)(9). | Accordingly, the proposed amendment meets the eligibility criterion for categorical exclusion set forth in 10 CFR 51.22(c)(9). | ||
Therefore, pursuant to 10 CFR 51.22(b), no environmental impact statement or environmental assessment need be prepared in connection with the proposed amendment. | Therefore, pursuant to 10 CFR 51.22(b), no environmental impact statement or environmental assessment need be prepared in connection with the proposed amendment. |
Revision as of 07:55, 12 July 2019
ML082610230 | |
Person / Time | |
---|---|
Site: | Columbia ![]() |
Issue date: | 09/09/2008 |
From: | Gambhir S Energy Northwest |
To: | Document Control Desk, Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation |
References | |
GO2-08-124 | |
Download: ML082610230 (30) | |
Text
Sudesh K. Gambhir ENERGY Vice President, Technical Services P.O. Box 968, PE04 NORTHW ESTRichland, WA 99352-0968 Ph. 509.377.8313 I F. 509.377.2354 sgambhir@energy-northwest.com September 9, 2008 G02-08-124 10 CFR 50.90 U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission ATTN: Document Control Desk Washington, DC 20555-0001
Subject:
COLUMBIA GENERATING STATION, DOCKET NO. 50-397 LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 References;
- 1) NUREG-1433, "Standard Technical Specifications General Electric Plants, BWR/4," Volume 1, Revision 3.2) NUREG-1434, "Standard Technical Specifications General Electric Plants, BWR/6," Volume 1, Revision 3.
Dear Sir or Madam:
Pursuant to 10 CFR 50.90, Energy Northwest hereby requests an amendment to the Columbia Generating Station (Columbia)
Technical Specifications.
The proposed change modifies Technical Specification (TS) 3.3.6.1, Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation.
The proposed change lowers the Group 1 Isolation Valves reactor water level isolation signal from Level 2 (L2) to Level 1 (Li).Energy Northwest requests approval of this change prior to May 15, 2009. This approval date is requested in order to support implementation during the next refueling outage (R19), scheduled to begin in May 2009. The change will be fully implemented prior to completion of R1 9. This implementation period will provide adequate time for station documents to be revised using the appropriate change control mechanisms and for the necessary physical modifications to plant systems. If the NRC does not approve the license amendment request (LAR) in time to support R1 9, Energy Northwest will extend the implementation until the next refueling outage or outage of suitable length to allow completion of the implementation activities.
Energy Northwest is requesting review and approval of this amendment request in accordance with the schedule discussed above due to the nuclear safety benefit the change provides.
The Group 1 isolation at L2 closes the main steam isolation valves (MSIVs), removing the availability of both the main condenser and the reactor feedwater (RFW) system. Removing the normal heat sink and normal reactor pressure vessel A,) (" RA<
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Page 2 (RPV) pressure and inventory control systems so early in a transient or accident can complicate the scram recovery.
Isolating the condenser and the RFW system at L2, while complicating the scram recovery, does not add any commensurate increase in safety. The loss of the main condenser as a heat sink places greater challenges on the RPV safety/relief valves (SRVs) and the primary containment.
The loss of RFW means that the operators must depend on high pressure core spray (HPCS) and reactor core isolation cooling (RCIC) systems to restore and maintain RPV level. Following the scram and decrease in RPV level, the operators will have greater opportunity to restore RPV pressure and level control using the normal balance of plant systems if the MSIVs remain open until LI. The proposed change will also decrease the risks associated with inadvertent SRV openings, a stuck open SRV, and anticipated transient without scram (ATWS) scenarios.
Changing the Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI is consistent with the values specified in Reference 1 and 2. As discussed further in the enclosure, several boiling water reactor (BWR) stations have received NRC approval to change the MSIV isolation signal from L2 to L1. All three Browns Ferry units received NRC approval of this change in September 1984. Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, Unit 2, and FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant both received approval of the requested change in 1986.The Enclosure provides a technical and regulatory evaluation of the changes.Proposed TS and Bases page markups and retyped pages are included as attachments to the Enclosure.
This document contains no regulatory commitments.
Should you have any questions or require additional information regarding this matter, please contact Mr. MC Humphreys, Licensing Supervisor, at 509-377-4025.
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed on the date of this letter.Ref ýctf ulIly, SK Gambhir Vice President, Technical Services
Enclosure:
Evaluation of the Proposed Change cc: EE Collins, Jr. -NRC RIV JO Luce -EFSEC CF Lyon -NRC NRR RR Cowley -WDOH NRC Senior Resident Inspector/988C WA Horin -Winston & Strawn RN Sherman -BPA/1399 LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 1 of 20 ENCLOSURE Evaluation of the Proposed Change
Subject:
License Amendment Request For Proposed Changes To Columbia Technical Specification 3.3.6.1; Change Group 1 Primary Containment Isolation Valves Reactor Water Level Isolation Signal From Level 2 to Level 1 1.
SUMMARY
DESCRIPTION
- 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION 2.1 Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation (TS 3.3.6.1)2.2 Reason for the Amendment 3. TECHNICAL EVALUATION
3.1 System Description
3.2 Applicable FSAR Text and Figures 3.3 Analytical Methods, Applicable Standards, Data, and Results 3.4 Technical Details in Support of Safety Arguments 3.4.1 Loss of Feedwater Analysis 3.4.2 LOCA Analysis 3.4.3 ATWS -Loss of Feedwater Analysis 3.4.4 Conclusions Based on Transient Analysis 3.5 Relationship to Other Relevant Amendments and NRC Issues 3.6 Summary 4. REGULATORY EVALUATION 4.1 Applicable Regulatory Requirements and Criteria 4.2 Precedent 4.3 Significant Hazards Consideration 4.4 Conclusions
- 5. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATION
- 6. REFERENCES ATTACHMENTS:
- 1. Technical Specification Page Markup 2. Technical Specification Bases Page Markups 3. Retyped Technical Specification Page LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 2 of 20 ENCLOSURE 1.
SUMMARY
DESCRIPTION This evaluation supports a request to amend the Technical Specifications for Columbia Generating Station (Columbia).
The proposed change would revise the Technical Specifications (TS) to lower the Group 1 primary containment isolation valves reactor pressure vessel (RPV) water level isolation signal from Level 2 (L2) to Level 1 (L1). The proposed change would affect TS 3.3.6.1, Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation.
- 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION 2.1 Change to Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation (TS 3.3.6.1)This license amendment request (LAR) seeks to revise Table 3.3.6.1-1 "Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation." Specifically, Item l.a of Table 3.3.6.1-1 will be revised to reflect a Group 1 isolation signal initiation will occur on "Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low Low Low, Level 1" with the allowable value of "_-1 42.3 inches." This value is consistent with the Emergency Core Cooling System (ECCS) Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low Low Low, Level 1 allowable value in TS 3.3.5.1.2.2 Reason for the Amendment Energy Northwest is submitting the LAR b~ecause it will allow more energy to be released to the main condenser, rather than to the suppression pool, prior to isolation of the main steam isolation valves (MSIVs) after a reactor scram. Implementation of this change will allow the plant operators to control the RPV pressure following the initial transient without the use of safety relief valves (SRVs). This reduces the potential to present additional challenges to the plant operations staff and, therefore, reduces the probability of more risk-significant scrams. By removing this energy through the condenser rather than the suppression pool, the nuclear steam supply system (NSSS)safety is improved from the standpoint of reducing SRV challenges (and the potential for stuck open SRVs) and mitigating (along with other systems) the consequences of Anticipated Transient Without Scram (ATWS) events. Additionally, the proposed configuration is typical in other boiling water reactor (BWR) 4 and BWR 5 plants, as well as the BWR 6 plants that General Electric (GE) designed with the Group 1 isolation signal at LI.3. TECHNICAL EVALUATION
3.1 System Description
The RPV water level initiation signals and alarm functions are defined to provide progressive protection for the reactor for potential variation in RPV coolant inventory.
A schematic representation of the various RPV water level initiation signals and alarm functions is shown in Figure 3-1. Table 3-1 shows the RPV water level nominal settings and their primary functions.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 3 of 20 One function of RPV L2 is to close the Group 1 isolation valves when the setpoint is reached. The Group 1 isolation valves include the MSIVs and the main steam line drain valves as show in Table 3-2.3.2 Applicable FSAR Text and Figures Final Safety Analysis Report (FSAR) Section 7.3.1.1.2, Primary Containment and Reactor Vessel Isolation Control System (PCRVICS) and the referenced sections, tables, and figures describe the purpose, function, and design of the isolation and control systems. Anticipated (moderate frequency) operational occurrences (AOOs), off-design abnormal (unexpected) transients that induce system operating condition disturbances, and postulated accidents of low or extremely low probability (design bases accident [DBA] or limiting faults) are discussed in Chapter 15 of the FSAR. The scope of FSAR Chapter 15 will collectively be referred to as "transient analyses" throughout this document.
The design bases for containment systems and ECCS are discussed in FSAR Section 6.2 and 6.3, respectively.
3.3 Analytical Methods, Applicable Standards, Data, and Results The technical evaluation demonstrates that lowering the RPV water level at which the Group 1 isolation valves initiate from L2 to LI will not reduce the level of protection offered by the design. The evaluation also supports the conclusion that the proposed amendment warrants a finding of no significant hazards. The technical evaluation considers the effect of the proposed change on the transient analyses for Columbia.The specific events evaluated in the report are the same as those defined in Columbia FSAR Chapter 15 (Reference 6.3).Energy Northwest examined each transient event with the Group 1 isolation signal at both L2 and Li to determine if a Group 1 isolation on low RPV water level would occur for a given event. If the Group 1 isolation did not initiate due to L2, the lower initiation setting of LI would have no impact. This effectively screened out the events that did not need to be reevaluated or considered as a part of this technical evaluation.
The results of this screening process are shown in Table 3-3.3.4 Technical Details in Support of Safety Arguments As shown in Table 3-3, many transients were not reanalyzed if: 1) L2 was not challenged, or 2) Group 1 isolation was initiated by a signal other than low RPV water level, or 3) the results were bounded by another event.As such, no further discussion is required for these transients.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 4 of 20 Changing the isolation signal for the Group 1 isolation valves from L2 to LI will impact the following transients:
Event Description Event Classification FSAR Section Loss of Feedwater Flow (LOFF) AOO 15.2.7, Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA) DBA 15.6.5 and 6.3, and ATWS -LOFF Limiting fault 15.8.2.Energy Northwest evaluated these events against the acceptance criteria defined in Section 15.0.3 of the FSAR (Reference 6.3) for unacceptable results. The criteria for evaluation are summarized as follows: " Unacceptable Results for Incidents of Moderate Frequency (AOO): o Release of radioactive material to the environs that exceeds the limits of-10 CFR 20, o Reactor operation induced fuel cladding failure, o Nuclear system stresses in excess of that allowed for the transient classification by applicable industry codes, and o Containment stresses in excess of that allowed for the transient classification by applicable industry codes." Unacceptable Results for DBAs or Limiting Faults: o Radioactive material release that results in dose consequences that exceed the requirements of 10 CFR 50.67, o Failure of fuel cladding that would cause changes in core geometry such that core cooling would be inhibited, o Nuclear system stresses in excess of those allowed for the accident classification by applicable industry codes, o Containment stresses in excess of those allowed for the accident classification by applicable industry codes when containment is required, and o Radiation exposure to plant operations personnel in the main control room in excess of 5 rem total effective dose equivalent (TEDE) for the duration of the accident.Energy Northwest also evaluated the results against the acceptance criteria for ATWS events (special events), defined in Section 15.8.0 of the FSAR (Reference 6.3), and summarized as follows:* The reactor coolant pressure boundary (RCPB) remains below emergency pressure limits.* The containment pressure remains below design limits. The suppression pool temperature remains below local saturation temperature limits.* A coolable geometry is maintained.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP I PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 5 of 20* Radiological releases are maintained within 10 CFR 50.67 limits.* Equipment necessary to mitigate the postulated ATWS event provides a high degree of assurance (assurance of function) that it will function in the environment (pressure, temperature, humidity, and radiation) predicated to occur as a result of the ATWS event.3.4.1 Loss of Feedwater Analysis As described in the FSAR, during the LOFF event, the RPV water level decreases quickly causing a reactor scram on low water level -Level 3 (L3). After the scram, RPV water level continues to drop until it reaches L2, initiating High Pressure Core Spray (HPCS) and Reactor Core Isolation Cooling (RCIC). The Group 1 isolation is also initiated at L2. At this point in the event, operators will use RCIC to maintain core cooling. With the Group 1 initiation signal lowered to L1, the reactor would not isolate at the same level that initiates the HPCS and RCIC systems. Thus, the lower Group 1 initiation level poses a different challenge to the HPCS and RCIC systems and further evaluation is warranted.
Energy Northwest contracted with AREVA, the Cycle 19 fuel vendor, to perform the necessary analysis.
Based on that analysis, Energy Northwest concluded that the short-term response is benign, since the core inlet subcooling reduction decreases core power. Reaching the L3 RPV water level setpoint initiates the scram. Because of the power reduction, there are no fuel related issues (e.g., minimum critical power ratio[MCPR] or cladding strain) associated with the short-term response and there is no need for cycle-specific analyses.
The long-term response is mainly concerned with justifying that the RPV water level does not fall to the top of active fuel prior to level recovery by the RCIC system, assuming no credit for the HPCS system. The HPCS failure was assumed because the system flow is significantly higher than the RCIC system flow.The general LOFF event sequence is summarized below: 1. Initial core power is 102% of rated thermal power.2. Feedwater flow is lost.3. Core power decreases due to the decrease in subcooling.
- 4. Water level falls as the core continues to generate steam that goes to the turbine. The pressure controller will try to maintain turbine inlet pressure.5. When the sensed water level reaches Level 4 (L4), in conjunction with a reactor feedwater (RFW) pump trip, the reactor recirculation (RRC) pump speed runs back to the 50% speed setpoint (30 Hz), creating a water level swell that tends to moderate the decrease in actual water level.6. Core power decreases further due to reduced core flow.7. When the sensed water level reaches L3, the reactor scrams and the RRC pump speed runs back to the minimum speed setpoint (15 Hz).
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 6 of 20 8. When the sensed water level reaches L2, the RRC pumps trip and the reduced core flow increases the core void fraction, tending to moderate the decrease in actual water level. At L2 the RCIC system is initiated.
At this point, the HPCS would also start and inject at a rate about ten times that of RCIC, but no credit for HPCS is taken in this analysis.9. The RCIC system takes steam from the RPV and pumps subcooled water into the RPV through the RPV head spray.10. Steam continues to be created by the decay heat as makeup water is provided by the RCIC system. When the steam mass loss is less than the water gain from the RCIC system, the water level slowly starts to recover.The analytical bases and assumptions are summarized below.1. Initial water level is just above the L3.2. The scram delay after L3 is reached is 5.05 second.3. The RFW pumps are assumed to ramp down in 1 second.4. Analytical limit (low) water level setpoints for L3 and L2 are assumed.5. Initial power is 102%.6. Decay heat after scram is based on the 10CFR50 Appendix K decay heat used for LOCA analyses.7. No credit is taken for the HPCS system.8. RCIC system injects 600 gpm with a 30-sec delay after the L2 initiation signal.9. The L2 initiation signal delay is 5.05 second.10. RCIC injection water temperature is 140 0 F.11. The RRC pumps runback starts at L3, when the RFW pumps trip.12. Since the initial water level is near the L3 point (i.e., below the L4 RRC pump runback point), once the RFW pumps trip the RRC pump speed runback begins, at the rate of 5% to 10% per second. Since the runback tends to raise water level (due to voiding in the core as core flow is reduced), the slower runback rate is used. The minimum runback speed is 15 Hz of rated.13. The L2 RRC pump trip does not occur.The result of the analysis show that the minimum RPV level falls to -110 inches, well above LI nominal setpoint of -129 inches and the proposed allowable value of >-142.3 inches. The analytical value of -110 inches is 51 inches above the top of active fuel elevation of -161.2 inches. This assures adequate cooling of the core.The RCIC system flow is sufficient to maintain the reactor water level above LI by compensating for the steam flow through the turbine bypass valves (BPVs) to the main condenser.
Consequently, throughout the event, the RPV level remains above the top of the active fuel. Since the RCIC system is capable of providing adequate core cooling with the Group 1 valve isolation initiation lowered to LI and since LI is not reached, the RPV is not isolated from the condenser.
The turbine BPVs maintain the RPV pressure at approximately 950 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) and preclude SRV actuation.
Suppression pool heat up due to the SRV discharge is therefore avoided.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 7 of 20 In sum, with the Group 1 isolation signal lowered to L1, the LOFF event does not result in any temperature, pressure, or water level transient in excess of the criteria for which the fuel, RPV, or containment are designed.
Therefore, barrier integrity and functions are maintained.
In addition, lowering the Group 1 isolation signal to Li will reduce the amount of heat discharged to the suppression pool.3.4.2 LOCA Analysis Energy Northwest evaluated the impact of lowering the Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI on the LOCA analyses for the EGOS performance evaluation and DBA radiological consequences.
The ECCS LOCA analyses assume the Group 1 isolation occurs at the LOCA initiation.
This is conservative relative to closing the MSIVs later in the event, based on either low water level or main steam line pressure.
Closing the MSIVs at the LOCA initiation results in a bounding peak cladding temperature (PCT), therefore, the change in Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI has no effect on the ECGS LOCA analysis.Changing the Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI has no effect on the DBA-LOCA radiological release. In both cases, the L2 and LI isolations ensure the MSIVs close prior to the start of the radiological release.Therefore, Energy Northwest concluded that, with respect to LOCA, lowering the Group 1 isolation initiation signal from L2 to LI is acceptable, because lowering the isolation signal does not challenge the LOCA acceptance criteria for PCT or change the radiological consequences of a DBA-LOOA.3.4.3 ATWS -Loss of Feedwater Analysis Energy Northwest evaluated the impact of lowering the Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI on the ATWS -LOFF event. This evaluation was based. on the GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) engineering reviews and calculations of the generic evaluation performed in Reference 6.4. Lowering the isolation signal does not challenge the ATWS acceptance criteria, as summarized below: 1. The RRC pump trip at L2 reduces the reactor power because of increased void generation.
- 2. The initiation of HPCS and RCIC at L2 will make up the RPV inventory lost through the steam lines.3. The delayed isolation of the Group 1 valves will prevent excessive suppression pool heat up by maintaining the main condenser availability for as long as possible.Therefore, Energy Northwest concluded that, with respect to ATWS, lowering the Group 1 isolation initiation signal from L2 to LI is acceptable.
For some ATWS events, maintaining the MSIVs open for a longer period of time will reduce the suppression pool LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 8 of 20 heatup without impacting the dose consequences for the event. The analysis demonstrates that the consequences of these events do not result in any temperature or pressure transient in excess of the design criteria for the fuel, the RPV, or containment.
Therefore, barrier integrity and functions are maintained.
3.4.4 Conclusions Based on Transient Analyses Energy Northwest reviewed the results of the proposed change on the impacted transient analyses, postulated accidents, and special events and concluded that lowering the Group 1 isolation signal to LI will not cause a reduction in safety margin, a reduction in plant shutdown capability, an increase in radiation release, or a decrease in core cooling capability.
Implementation of the proposed license amendment will not result in unacceptable safety consequences as defined in FSAR Sections 15.0.3 and 15.8.0.The events which initiate the Group 1 isolation due to L2 are the LOFF, the LOCA, and the ATWS-LOFF.
The analyses performed in support of this proposed amendment demonstrate that the lower initiation setting of L1 has no impact on the station's ability to meet the acceptance criteria related to radioactive dose, fuel damage, and system and containment stresses.
The sequence of events for these analyses are changed such that the Group 1 valve isolation initiates at lower water level later in the event, the SRV opening is reduced or eliminated, and more heat is released to the condenser rather than directed by the SRVs to the suppression pool. The safety margin of the plant as defined in its FSAR Chapter 15 and Sections 6.2 and 6.3 is not reduced and the acceptance criteria as defined in FSAR Sections 15.0.3 and 15.8.0 are met.3.5 Relationship to Other Relevant Amendments and NRC Issues* Impact of transition to a new fuel vendor The analyses performed in support of this proposed change are based on the current licensing and design bases and do not reflect changes proposed by Energy Northwest for transition to Global Nuclear Fuel (GNF) as the fuel vendor for Cycle 20. The core reload analyses, regardless of fuel vendor, will be performed using conservative inputs and methods approved by the NRC.Therefore, each reload analysis will ensure that any change to the Group 1 isolation initiation does not impact the core limits.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 9 of 20 3.6 Summary To justify the isolation signal change, Energy Northwest evaluated the impact on the safety analyses.
To support this change of Group 1 isolation signal, TS 3.3.6.1, Item l.a of Table 3.3.6.1-1 must be revised as shown on Attachment 1 to change the Group 1 isolation on RPV level from L2 to L1. All other requirements (surveillance intervals, action statements, etc.) remain the same for "Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation." The analyses of the impacted events demonstrate that when the Group 1 isolation initiation signal is lowered to L1, consequences of LOFF, LOCA, and ATWS-LOFF events do not result in any temperature, pressure, or water level transient in excess of the design criteria for the fuel, RPV, or containment.
Therefore, barrier integrity and functions are maintained.
The proposed change will allow more energy to be released to the main condenser, rather than to the suppression pool, following a reactor scram. This allows RPV pressure to be controlled following the initial transient using the BPVs, rather than the SRVs. This lessens the potential to present additional challenges to the plant operations staff and, therefore, lessens the chance of more risk-significant scrams. By removing this energy through the condenser rather than the suppression pool, the reactor system safety is improved from the standpoint of reducing SRV challenges (and the potential for stuck open SRVs), and mitigating (along with other systems) the consequences of ATWS events. Therefore, lowering the Group 1 isolation initiation signal to LI has an insignificant impact to FSAR Chapter 15 events.The events continue to meet all acceptance criteria as defined in FSAR Sections 15.0.3 and 15.8.0.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 10 of 20 Figure 3-1 Columbia Reactor Vessel Water Level Functions Amendment 53 November 1998 Steam Line-Nozzle = 648.0 in.-High Water Level Trip, L8 = 582.0 in.Low Water Level-Scram, L3 = 540.5 in.Feedwater-Nozzle = 493.25 in.Low Water Level, L2 = 477.5 in.-Low Wate r Level, Li = 398.5 in.-Recirc. Inlet Nozzle = 181.0 in.-Elevation 0.00 in.Nominal Reactor Vessel Water Level Trip and Columbia Generating Station Alarm Elevation Settings Final Safety Analysis Report Drw. No. 960690.53 IRo-. I Figure 5.3-3 F-O N.. 956069 LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 11 of 20 Table 3-1 Columbia Reactor Vessel Water Level Functions Reactor Elevation from Description of Major Functions Vessel Water Instrument Zeroa (in)Level 8 54.5 Reactor Feed Water Pump Trip Close Main Steam Turbine' Valves Trip RCICb and Close HPCSb Injection Valve 7 40.5 High Water Level Alarm 6,5 --- Normal Water Level 4 31.5 Low Water Level Alarm 3 13.0 Scram Reactor 2 -50 Initiate RCIC and HPCS Current isolation signal to close Group 1 Isolation Valves Trip Recirculation Pumps 1 -129 Initiate RHR and Core Spray Proposed new isolation signal for Group 1 Isolation Valves a Instrument zero is 527.5 inches from the vessel bottom b RCIC = Reactor Core Isolation Cooling HPCS = High Pressure Core Spray LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP I PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 12 of 20 Table 3-2 Columbia Group 1 Isolation Valves Valve Function MS lines drain inboard MS lines drain outboard MS line A inboard MSIV MS line B inboard MSIV MS line C inboard MSIV MS line D inboard MSIV MS line A outboard MSIV MS line B outboard MSIV MS line C outboard MSIV MS line D outboard MSIV MS line A drain isolation MS line B drain isolation MS line C drain isolation MS line D drain isolation Valve Number MS-V-16 MS-V-1 9 MS-V-22A MS-V-22B MS-V-22C MS-V-22D MS-V-28A MS-V-28B MS-V-28C MS-V-28D MS-V-67A MS-V-67B MS-V-67C MS-V-67D LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 13 of 20 Table 3-3 Evaluation of Group 1 Isolation for FSAR Transient Analysis FSAR Section Event Description Event Classification Disposition/Comment 15.1.1 Loss of Feedwater Heating AOO No impact/ Level 2 not challenged.
15.1.2 Feedwater Controller Failure AOO Potential impact on long term level control is bounded by impact on loss of feedwater flow.15.1.3 Pressure Regulator Failure -AOO No impact/ MSIVs close Open on low steam line pressure.15.1.4 Inadvertent Safety/Relief Valve AOO No impact/ Level 2 not Opening challenged.
15.1.6 Inadvertent RHR Shutdown AOO No impact/ Level 2 not Cooling Operation challenged.
15.2.1 Pressure Regulator Failure -AOO No impact/ Level 2 not Closed challenged.
15.2.2 Generator Load Rejection AOO No impact/ Level 2 not challenged.
15.2.3 Turbine Trip AOO Potential impact on long term level control is bounded by impact on loss of feedwater flow.15.2.4 Main Steam Isolation Valve AOO No impact/ MSIVs close at Closures event initiation.
15.2.5 Loss of Condenser Vacuum AOO No impact/ MSIVs close on low condenser vacuum.15.2.6 Loss of Alternating Current Power AOO No impact/ MSIVs close on loss of power.15.2.7 Loss of Feedwater Flow AOO No impact on core uncovery/level control.Additional evaluation provided in Section 3.4.1.15.2.9 Failure of RHR Shutdown Cooling AOO No impact/ MSIVs close on loss of power.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 14 of 20 Table 3-3 (Continued)
Evaluation of Group 1 Isolation for FSAR Transient Analysis FSAR Section Event Description Event Classification Disposition/Comment 15.3.1 Recirculation pump trip a) Single-pump trip a) AOO' a) No impact/ Level 2 not b) Two-pump trip b) AOO challenged.
b) Potential impact on long term level control is bounded by impact on loss of feedwater flow.15.3.2 Recirculation Flow Control Failure AOO No impact/ water level-Decreasing Flow control is maintained.
15.3.3 Recirculation Pump Seizure a) Two-loop operation a) Infrequent a) Potential impact on incident long term level control is bounded by impact on loss of feedwater flow.b) Single-loop operation b) Limiting b) No impact.fault 15.3.4 Recirculation Pump Shaft Break Infrequent Potential impact on long incident term level control is bounded by impact on loss of feedwater flow.15.4.1 Rod Withdrawal Error- Low Infrequent, No impact/ Level 2 not Power incident challenged.
15.4.2 Rod Withdrawal Error -at Power AOO No impact/ Level 2 not challenged.
15.4.4 Startup of Idle Recirculation AOO No impact/ Level 2 not Pump challenged.
15.4.5 Recirculation Flow Control Failure AOO No impact/ Level 2 not with Increasing Flow challenged.
15.4.7 Misplaced Bundle Accident Infrequent No impact/ Level 2 not incident challenged.
15.4.9 Control Rod Drop Accident Limiting fault No impact/ Level 2 not challenged.
15.5.1 Inadvertent High-Pressure Core AOO No impact/ Level 2 not Spray Startup challenged.
15.6.2 Instrument Line Pipe Break Limiting fault No impact/ Level 2 not challenged.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 15 of 20 Table 3-3 (Continued)
Evaluation of Group 1 Isolation for FSAR Transient Analysis FSAR Section Event Description Event Classification Disposition/Comment 15.6.4 Steam System Piping Break Limiting fault No impact/ MSIVs close Outside Containment on high steam flow.15.6.5 LOCA Design basis No impact on radiological accident evaluation.
See Section 3.4.2.15.6.6 Feedwater Line Break Limiting fault Potential impact remains bounded by the limiting recirculation line break LOCA.15.7.3 Postulated Radioactive Release Limiting fault No impact/ MSIV Due to Liquid Radwaste Tank operation does not impact Failure this event.15.7.4 Fuel Handling Accident Limiting fault No impact/ MSIV operation does not impact this event.15.7.5 Spent Fuel Cask Drop Accident Not required No impact/ Event not analyzed.15.8.1 ATWS -Inadvertent Control Rod Limiting fault No impact/ Level 2 not Withdrawal challenged.
15.8.2 ATWS -Loss of Feedwater Limiting fault No impact on core uncovery/level control.Additional evaluation provided in Section 3.4.3.15.8.3 ATWS -Loss of Alternating Limiting fault No impact/ MSIVs close Current Power on loss of power.15.8.4 ATWS -Loss of Electrical Load Limiting fault No impact/ MSIVs close on loss of power.15.8.5 ATWS -Loss of Condenser Limiting fault No impact/ MSIVs close Vacuum on low condenser vacuum.15.8.6 ATWS -Turbine Trip Limiting fault Potential impact on core uncovery is bounded by ATWS loss of feedwater flow event.15.8.7 ATWS -Closure of Main Steam Limiting fault No impact/ MSIVs close at Isolation Valves event initiation.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 16 of 20 Table 3-3 (Continued)
Evaluation of Group 1 Isolation for FSAR Transient Analysis FSAR Section 15.8.8 Event Description Event Classification Limiting fault Disposition/Comment ATWS -Inadvertent Opening of Relief Valve No impact/ MSIV closure on low level disabled in analysis.
MSIVs close on low steam line pressure.15.8.9 ATWS -Pressure Regulator Limiting fault No impact/ MSIVs close Failure -Open (PREGO) on low steam line pressure.5.2.2 ASME Over pressurization Special event a) MSIV closure a) No impact/ MSIVs close at event initiation.
b) Turbine governor or throttle b) Peak pressure during valve closure event occurs prior to water level approaching Level 2.6.2 Containment Analysis Design basis No impact/ The small accident delay in the MSIV isolation allows removal of more energy from the containment prior to containment isolation and reactor depressurization.
6.3 ECCS Analysis Design basis No impact/ Cycle 19 accident LOCA analysis not impacted.
See Section 3.4.2.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL I Enclosure Page 17 of 20 4. REGULATORY EVALUATION 4.1 Applicable Regqulatory Requirements and Criteria The NRC acceptance criteria for primary containment related to the proposed license amendment are based on the General Design Criteria (GDC), 10 CFR 50.36, and 10 CFR 50.46 and are summarized as follows.0 GDC-1 6, insofar as it requires that reactor containment be provided to establish an essentially leak-tight barrier against the uncontrolled release of radioactivity to the environment; 0 GDC-33, insofar as it requires that the system safety function shall be to assure that specified acceptable fuel design limits are not exceeded as a result of reactor coolant loss due to leakage from the reactor coolant pressure boundary and rupture of small piping or other small components which are part of the boundary;* GDC-35, insofar as it requires that the system safety function shall be to transfer heat from the reactor core following any loss of reactor coolant at a rate such that: o Fuel and clad damage that could interfere with continued effective core cooling is prevented and o Clad metal-water reaction is limited to negligible amounts;* GDC-50, insofar as it requires that the containment and its internal components be able to accommodate, without exceeding the design leakage rate and with sufficient margin, the calculated pressure and temperature conditions resulting from any LOCA;0 GDC-54 insofar as it requires that piping systems penetrating primary reactor containment shall be provided with leak detection, isolation, and containment capabilities having redundancy, reliability, and performance capabilities which reflect the importance to safety of isolating these piping systems;* 10 CFR 50.36, insofar as it specifies those requirements that should be included in TS; and* 10 CFR 50.46, insofar as it requires that the ECCS be designed so that its calculated cooling performance following postulated loss-of-coolant accidents conforms to the criteria set forth in paragraph (b) of 10 CFR 50.46.The objective of Item I1.K.3.16 of NUREG-0737, "TMI Action Plan Requirements," (Reference 6.1) is to reduce the potential challenges and failures of SRVs. In response to this requirement, the BWR Owners Group (BWROG) submitted the results of a feasibility study and evaluation of various actions and modifications, which might reduce the challenges and failures of SRVs. One recommendation was to lower the MSIV closure, signal from L2 to LI. The Columbia response to NUREG-0737, Item I1.K.3.16 did not include implementation of the isolation signal change from L2 to LI because Energy Northwest had installed SRVs with improved reliability.
However, the change was implemented at a number of other BWR 4 and BWR 5 plants, as described in Section 4.2 and Reference 6.2.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 18 of 20 4.2 Precedent The proposed change is similar to license amendments 50 and 33 (ML021130102), issued to Commonwealth Edison Company on May 6, 1987, for LaSalle County Station Units 1 & 2, respectively.
The 1987 amendment "revised the LaSalle County Station, Units 1 and 2 Technical Specifications to change the Group I Main Steam Isolation Valves' closure signal from Reactor Pressure Vessel Level 2 to Level 1." Like Columbia, LaSalle is a BWR 5 plant with a Mark II containment structure.
The NRC issued similar amendments to the following BWR 4 plants with Mark I containments: " Cooper Nuclear Station, Amendment 83, dated May 4, 1983 (ML021350409)" Browns Ferry, Units 1, 2, and 3, Amendments 112, 106, and 80, dated September 19, 1984 (ML013650008)
- Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station, Units 2 and 3, Amendments 111 and 115, dated October 2, 1985 (ML021570504)" Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, Unit 2, Amendment 25, dated April 1, 1986 (ML010180043) (Susquehanna has a Mark II containment.)" FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant, Amendment 103, dated December 19, 1986 (ML010610096) 4.3 SiQnificant Hazards Consideration Pursuant to 10 CFR 50.90, Energy Northwest hereby requests an amendment to the Columbia TS. The proposed changes modify TS 3.3.6.1, "Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation." The proposed change lowers the primary containment Group 1 isolation valves low RPV water level isolation signal from L2 to LI.Energy Northwest has evaluated whether or not a significant hazards consideration is involved with the proposed amendment by focusing on the three standards set forth in 10 CFR 50.92, "Issuance of amendment," as discussed below: 1. Does the proposed amendment involve a significant increase in the probabil ity or consequences of an accident previously evaluated?
Response:
No.Lowering the Group 1 isolation signal does not increase the probability of an accident, it changes only the level at which the isolation valves close. Isolation of the Group 1 valves occurs in response to lowering RPV water level during some transient events. As such, the isolation of Group 1 valves on lowering water level, which occurs in response to transients, is not an initiator of any transient or accident previously evaluated.
Because the isolation of Group 1 Valves on low water level occurs in response to some transients and is not an initiator of a transient event, lowering the level at which this isolation occurs does not impact the probability of an accident previously evaluated.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 19 of 20 During some transients, delayed closure of the Group 1 isolation valves will reduce the chances of SRV actuation following an event by allowing the main condenser to remain available longer, without increasing the dose consequences of an event. Analyses performed show that lowering of the Group 1 isolation signal to LI has no impact on the FSAR Chapter 15 events in terms of RPV limits, ability to maintain necessary coolant inventory, or fission product release. Therefore, the proposed change does not involve a significant increase in the probability or consequences of an accident previously evaluated.
- 2. Does the proposed amendment create the possibility of a new or different kind of accident from any accident previously evaluated?
Response:
No.While the proposed change is a change to the Group 1 isolation initiation signal, the other requirements (surveillance intervals, action statements, etc.)remain the same for "Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation." The methods used to test and determine operability of the instrumentation providing the low water level initiation for Group 1 isolation valves are unaffected by this change. This change does not change any equipment function, change the potential failure modes of any equipment, or alter any existing logic. Therefore, the proposed change does not create the possibility of a new or different kind of accident from any previously evaluated.
- 3. Does the proposed amendment involve a significant reduction in a margin of safety?Response:
No.The proposed change to the Group 1 isolation signal from L2 to LI allows more energy to be released to the main condenser (and reduces the amount potentially added to the suppression pool) after a reactor scram. This allows the operations staff and the turbine BPVs to control RPV pressure following the initial transient without the use of SRVs. This reduces the potential of additional challenges to the operations staff and plant equipment and therefore, reduces the probability of more risk-significant scrams. By removing this energy through the condenser rather than the suppression pool, the change requested improves reactor system safety from the standpoint of reducing SRV challenges (and the potential for stuck open SRVs). The analyses for transients and accidents that involve the Group 1 isolation demonstrate that the isolation occurs on signals other than low water level, or that adequate core cooling capability is maintained so that RPV water level does not decrease below acceptable levels. The analyses of the impacted events demonstrate that when the Group 1 isolation signal is lowered to L1, consequences of LOFF, LOCA, and ATWS-LOFF events do not result in any temperature, pressure, or LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP I PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure Page 20 of 20 water level transient in excess of the design criteria for the fuel, RPV, or containment.
Therefore barrier integrity and functions are maintained.
For these reasons, the margin of safety is not reduced for any impacted event.Implementation of the proposed amendment would improve the margin of safety, in terms of reducing the probability of risk-significant scrams and reducing the amount of energy required to be absorbed by the suppression pool for some events. Therefore, the proposed change does not involve a significant reduction in a margin of safety.Based on the above, Energy Northwest concludes that the proposed amendment does not involve a significant hazards consideration under the standards set forth in 10 CFR 50.92(c), and, accordingly, a finding of "no significant hazards consideration" is justified.
4.4 Conclusions In conclusion, based on the considerations discussed above, (1) there is reasonable assurance that the health and safety of the public will not be endangered by operation in the proposed manner, (2) such activities will be conducted in compliance with the Commission's regulations, and (3) the issuance of the amendment will not be inimical to the common defense and security or to the health and safety of the public.5. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATION The proposed amendment does not involve (1) a significant hazards consideration, (2) a significant change in the types or significant increase in the amounts of any effluent that may be released offsite, or (3) a significant increase in individual or cumulative occupational radiation exposure.
Accordingly, the proposed amendment meets the eligibility criterion for categorical exclusion set forth in 10 CFR 51.22(c)(9).
Therefore, pursuant to 10 CFR 51.22(b), no environmental impact statement or environmental assessment need be prepared in connection with the proposed amendment.
- 6. REFERENCES 6.1 "Clarification of TMI Action Plan Requirements," Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation, US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, NUREG-0737, November 1980 -TASK I1.K.3.16
-Reduction of Challenges and Failures of Relief Valves-Feasibility Study and System Modification.
6.2 "RPV Water Level Setpoint for MSIV Closure," General Electric Company, SIL No. 367, December 1981.6.3 "Columbia Generating Station, Final Safety Analysis Report," Amendment 59, December 2007.6.4 Low-Low Set Logic and Lower MSIV Water Level Trip for BWRs With Mark I Containment, NEDE-22223, September 1982.
LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 1 Enclosure, Attachment 1 Page 1 of 2 Technical Specification Page Markup Page 3.3.6.1-5 Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation 3.3.6.1 Table 3.3.6.1-1 (page 1 of 4)Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation APPLICABLE CONDITIONS MODES OR REQUIRED REFERENCED OTHER CHANNELS FROM SPECIFIED PER TRIP REQUIRED SURVEILLANCE ALLOWABLE FUNCTION CONDITIONS SYSTEM ACTION C.1 REQUIREMENTS VALUE 1. Main Steam Line Isolat ion a. Reactor Vessel 1,2,3 Water Level Low--,, Low, Level 5. Main Steam Line n Pressure -Low c. Main Steam Line Flow -High d. Condenser Vacuum -Low e. Main Steam Tunnel Temperature
-High f. Main Steam Tunnel Differential Temperature
-High g. Manual Initiation
- 2. Primary Containment Isolation a. Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low, Level 3 b. Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low Low, Level 2 c. Drywell Pressure-High 1,2,3 2 per MSL 1,2(a), 2 3(a)1,2,3 2 1,2,3 2 D SR SR SR SR E SR SR SR SR D SR SR SR SR SR D SR SR SR D SR SR SR D SR SR SR G SR F SR SR SR SR H SR SR SR H SR SR SR 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.7 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.7 3.3.6.1.1 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.7 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.3 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.3 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.1 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6* -4& inches* 804 psig* 124.4 psid> 7.2 inches Hg vacuum" 170,F" 90"F NA* 9.5 inches S-58 inches* 1.88 psig 1,2,3 1,2,3 1,2,3 1.2.3 4 I 2 (e)(continued)(a) With any turbine throttle valve not closed.(e) Also required to initiate the associated LOCA Time Delay Relay Function pursuant to LCO 3.3.5.1.Columbia Generating Station 3.3.6.1-5 Amendment No. i4,6947 LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL I Enclosure, Attachment 2 Page 1 of 3 Technical Specification Bases Page Markups For Information Only Page B 3.3.6.1-7 Page B 3.3.6.1-8 Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation B 3.3.6.1 BASES APPLICABLE SAFETY ANALYSES, LCO, and APPLICABILITY (continued) the associated device (e.g., trip relay) changes state. The analytic limits are derived from the limiting values of the process parameters obtained from the safety analysis.
The Allowable Values are derived from the analytic limits, corrected for process and all instrument uncertainties, except drift and calibration.
The trip setpoints are derived from the analytic limits, corrected for process and all instrument uncertainties, including drift and calibration.
The trip setpoints derived in this manner provide adequate protection because all instrumentation uncertainties and process effects are taken into account.Certain Emergency Core Cooling Systems (ECCS) and RCIC valves (e.g., minimum flow) also serve the dual function of automatic PCIVs. The signals that isolate these valves are also associated with the automatic initiation of the ECCS and RCIC. Some instrumentation and ACTIONS associated with these signals are addressed in LCO 3.3.5.1, "ECCS Instrumentation," and LCO 3.3.5.2, "RCIC System Instrumentation," and are not included in this LCO.In general, the individual Functions are required to be OPERABLE in MODES 1, 2, and 3 consistent with the Applicability for LCO 3.6.1.1, "Primary Cdntainment." Functions that have different Applicabilities are discussed below in the individual Functions discussion.
The specific Applicable Safety Analyses, LCO, and Applicability discussions are listed below on a Function by Function basis.1. Main Steam Line Isolation 1.a. Reactor Vessel Water Level- Low Low. Level 4 Low reactor pressure vessel (RPV) water level indicates that the capability to cool the fuel may be threatened.
Should RPV water level decrease too far, fuel damage could result.Therefore, isolation of the MSIVs and other interfaces wit L the reactor vessel occurs to prevent offsite dose limits from being exceeded.
The Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low L Low Leve .2 Function is one of the many Functions assumed to be OPE ABLE and capable of providing isolationt n The Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low Lot Level 4gF'nction associated with isolation is assumed i the analysis of the (continued)
FL ow Columbia Generating Station B 3.3.6.1-7 Revision 44*
Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation B 3.3.6.1 BASES F11/1L APPLICABLE l.a. Reactor Vessel Water Level- Low Low, Level SAFETY ANALYSES, (continued)
LCO, and APPLICABILITY recirculation line break (Ref. 1). The isolation of the MSL o supports actions to ensure that offsite dose l are not exceeded for a DBA.Reactor vessel water level signals are initiated from four differential pressure switches that sense the difference between the pressure due to a constant column of water (reference leg) and the pressure due to the actu Low level (variable leg) in the vessel. (Fr'r of Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low Low, Level -'1ltTUion are available and are required to be OPERABLE to ensure that On single instrument failure can preclude the isolati"o function.The Reactor Vessel Water Level-Low Low, Level lowe Value is chosen to be the same as the ECCS Level 4 Tllowable Value (LCO 3.3.5.1) to ensure that the MSLs isolate on a potential loss of coolant accident (LOCA) to prevent offsite doses from exceeding 10 CFR 50.67 limits.This Function isolates the Group I valves.l.b. Main Steam Line Pressure-Low Low MSL pressure indicates that there may be a problem with the turbine pressure regulation, which could result in a low reactor vessel water level condition and the RPV cooling down more than 100°F/hour if the pressure loss is allowed to continue.
The Main Steam Line Pressure-Low Function it directly assumed in the analysis of the, pressure regulator failure (Ref. 4). For this event, the closure of the MSIVs ensures that the RPV temperature change limit (100°F/hour) is not reached. In addition, this Function supports actions to ensure that Safety Limit 2.1.1.1 is not exceeded. (This Function closes the MSIVs prior to pressure decreasing below 785 psig, which results in a scram due to MSIV closure, thus reducing reactor power to < 25% RTP.)The MSL low pressure signals are initiated from four sensors that are connected to the MSL header. The sensors are arranged such that, even though physically separated from each other, each sensor is able to detect low MSL pressure.(continued)
Columbia Generating Station B 3.3.6.1-8 Revision 44 LICENSE AMENDMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSED CHANGES TO COLUMBIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3.3.6.1; CHANGE GROUP 1 PRIMARY CONTAINMENT ISOLATION VALVES REACTOR WATER LEVEL ISOLATION SIGNAL FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL I Enclosure, Attachment 3 Page 1 of 2 Retyped Technical Specification Page Page 3.3.6.1-5
/ 3.3.6.1-6 Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation 3.3.6.1 Table 3.3.6.1-1 (page 1 of 4)Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation APPLICABLE CONDITIONS MODES OR REQUIRED REFERENCED OTHER CHANNELS FROM SPECIFIED PER TRIP REQUIRED SURVEILLANCE ALLOWABLE FUNCTION CONDITIONS SYSTEM ACTION C.1 REQUIREMENTS VALUE 1. Main Steam Line Isolation a. Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low Low Low, Level I 1,2,3 2 b. Main Steam Line Pressure -Low c. Main Steam Line Flow -High d. Condenser.
Vacuum -Low 1 2 e. Main Steam Tunnel Temperature
-High f. Main Steam Tunnel Differential Temperature
-High g. Manual Initiation
- 2. Primary Containment Isolation a. Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low, Level 3 b. Reactor Vessel Water Level -Low Low, Level 2 c. Drywell Pressure -High 1,2,3 1 .2 (a)3 (a)1,2,3 1,2,3 1,2,3 1.2,3 1,2,3 1,2,3 2 per MSL 2 D SR SR SR SR E SR SR SR SR D SR SR SR SR SR D SR SR SR D SR SR SR D SR SR SR 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.7 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.7 3.3.6.1.1 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.7 3.3.6.1.2 3 .3.6.1.4 3 .3.6.1.6 3 .3.6.1.3 3 .3.6.1.4 3 .3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.3 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6> -142.3 inches 804 psig 124.4 psid> 7.2 inches Hg vacuum I 2 2"c 170'F" 90'F G SR 3.3.6.1.6 NA '2 2 (e)2 (e)F SR SR SR SR H SR SR SR H SR SR SR 3.3.6.1.1 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3 .3.6.1.6* 9.5 inches> -58 inches 1.88 psig (continued)(a) With any turbine throttle valve not closed.(e) Also required to initiate the associated LOCA Time Delay Relay Function pursuant to LCO 3.3.5.1.Columbia Generating Station 3.3.6. 1-5 Amendment No. 149,169,1ý2-Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation 3.3.6.1 Table 3.3.6.1-1 (page 2 of 4)Primary Containment Isolation Instrumentation APPLICABLE CONDITIONS MODES OR REQUIRED REFERENCED OTHER CHANNELS FROM SPECIFIED PER TRIP REQUIRED SURVEILLANCE ALLOWABLE FUNCTION CONDITIONS SYSTEM ACTION C.1 REQUIREMENTS VALUE 2. 'Primary Containment Isolation (continued)
- d. Reactor Building Vent Exhaust Plenum Radiation
-High e. Manual Initiation
- 3. Reactor Core Isolation Cooling (RCIC) System Isolation a. RCIC Steam Line Flow -High 1,2,3 2 F SR SR SR.SR 3.3 .6.1.1 3.3 .6.1.2 3 .3 .6.1.4 3.3 .6.1.6< 16.0 mR/hr 1.2,3 4 G SR 3.3.6.1.6 NA b. RCIC Steam Line Flow- Time Delay c. RCIC Steam Supply Pressure -Low d. RCIC Turbine Exhaust Diaphragm Pressure-High e. RCIC Equipment Room Area Temperature
-High f. RCIC Equipment Room Area Differential Temperature-High g. RWCU/RCIC Steam Line Routing Area Temperature
-High h. Manual Initiation
- 4. RWCU System Isolation a. Differential Flow -High 1,2,3 1,2,3 1.2.3 1,2.3 1,2,3 1.2,3 1,2.3 1,2,3 1.2.3 1 2 F SSR SR SR SR F SSR SR SR F SSR SR SR F SSR SR SR F SSR SR SR F SSR SR SR F SSR SR SR G SR F SSR SR SR SR 3.3 .6.1.1 3 .3 .6. 1.2 3 .3 .6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.2 3 .3.6.1.4 3 .3 .6.1.6 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3 .3 .6.1.2 3.3.6.1 .4 3 .3 .6.1.6 3.3.6.1.3 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.3 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3.3.6.1.3 3.3.6.1.4 3.3.6.1.6 3 .3 .6.1.6 3.3.6.1.1 3.3.6.1.2 3.3.6.1.5 3.3.6.1.6* 61 psig* 20 psig< 180'F< 60'F< 180°F NA< 67.4 gpm* 250 inches wg< 3.00 seconds l(b)1 (continued)(b) RCIC Manual Initiation only inputs into one of the two trip systems.Columbia Generating Station 3. 3. 6.1-6 Amendment No. 149,169 172