Semantic search

Jump to navigation Jump to search
 Start dateTitleDescriptionTopic
ENS 5640914 March 2023 14:00:00High Pressure Core Injection Inoperable

The following information was provided by the licensee via email: At 1000 EDT on March 14, 2023, during valve diagnostic testing, the high pressure core injection (HPCI) lube oil cooling water supply isolation valve did not stroke open. This failure resulted in the Unit 2 HPCI system being inoperable. This is being reported as a loss of an entire safety function condition in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM BOB BINGMAN TO BILL GOTT AT 2208 EDT ON 04/02/2023 * * *

The following information was provided by the licensee via email: The purpose of this notification is to retract event notification (EN) 56409 reported on 03/14/2023. On March 09, 2023, Susquehanna Unit 2 entered a routine high pressure core injection (HPCI) maintenance outage. In support of this system outage, Technical Specification (TS) 3.5.1, Condition D was entered for an inoperable HPCI system. On March 14 as reported in EN 56409, the HPCI lube oil cooling water supply isolation valve did not electrically stroke open following engagement of manual clutch lever. Specifically, to support the maintenance evolution, electricians declutched the valve actuator to move it from the motor/electric operational mode to the manual operational mode as part of planned valve diagnostic data collection. In this testing configuration (i.e., manual operational mode), an attempt to electrically stroke the valve was made, resulting in the valve failure to stroke. Prior to this maintenance evolution, the HPCI lube oil cooling water supply isolation valve was found in the expected full-closed position with the motor/electric operational mode enabled, meaning prior to the HPCI maintenance outage, the affected valve was operating as designed and capable of performing all design functions. The described condition was therefore determined to be the result of the maintenance activity. NUREG-1022, Section 3.2.7, states: 'reports are not required when systems are declared inoperable as part of a planned evolution for maintenance or surveillance testing when done in accordance with an approved procedure and the plant's TS (unless a condition is discovered that would have resulted in the system being declared inoperable).' Following completion of investigation and repair, Susquehanna determined that, per NUREG-1022, Section 3.2.7, the event was not reportable. HPCI was declared inoperable as part of a maintenance evolution which was done in accordance with an approved procedure and the TS. The described condition was not a pre-existing condition that would have resulted in the system being declared inoperable prior to the planned maintenance activity. Notified R1DO (Schroeder)

ENS 5255215 February 2017 18:37:00Loss of Secondary Containment Differential Pressure

On February 15, 2017 at 1337 (EST), Secondary Containment Zone 1 (Unit 1 Reactor Building) differential pressure lowered to 0 inches WG (Water Gauge) due to a trip of the running Unit 1 B Filtered Exhaust Fan. Required differential pressure per SR (Surveillance Requirement) 3.6.4.1.1 could not be maintained. Zone 1 differential pressure recovered to greater than 0.25 inches WG less than one minute later after start of the standby Zone 1 Filtered Exhaust Fan. Zone 2 (Unit 2 Reactor Building) and Zone 3 (Common Areas of Unit 1&2 Reactor Buildings) ventilation remained in service and stable. This event is being reported under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C) and per the guidance of NUREG-1022, Rev 3 section 3.2.7 as a loss of a Safety Function. There is no redundant Susquehanna Secondary Containment System. Post-maintenance testing was underway when the fan tripped. While the investigation is on-going to determine the cause, the licensee does not believe the maintenance or testing caused the fan to trip The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM RONALD FRY TO DONALD NORWOOD AT 0833 EDT ON 4/12/2017 * * *

The Unit 1 B Filtered Exhaust Fan trip that resulted in loss of secondary containment differential pressure occurred during post maintenance testing (PMT). The PMT was being performed following replacement of a flow controller associated with the Unit 1 B Filtered Exhaust Fan. In support of the PMT, Technical Specification (TS) 3.6.4.1 Condition A had been entered and was in effect at the time of the fan trip. The maintenance and the associated PMT were performed in accordance with approved work instructions/procedure. Subsequent to the initial report, Susquehanna troubleshooting determined that the fan trip was the result of an internal leak in the newly installed controller that prevented the new controller from functioning properly. The condition was therefore determined to have been the result of the completed maintenance. NUREG-1022, Section 3.2.7, includes the following guidance: '...reports are not required when systems are declared inoperable as part of a planned evolution for maintenance or surveillance testing when done in accordance with an approved procedure and the plant's TS (unless a condition is discovered that would have resulted in the system being declared inoperable).' Following completion of the troubleshooting, Susquehanna determined that, per NUREG-1022, Section 3.2.7, the event was not reportable. Secondary Containment was declared inoperable as a part of a planned evolution for maintenance which was done in accordance with an approved procedure and the Susquehanna TS. The discovered condition was not a pre-existing condition that would have resulted in the system being declared inoperable prior to the planned maintenance activity. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Jackson).

ENS 5226627 September 2016 20:44:00Secondary Containment Leakage Exceeding Requirements

On September 27, 2016 at 1644 (EDT), damaged ductwork was identified in the secondary containment boundary associated with reactor building zone 3 (Units 1 and 2) recirculation plenum. The size of the hole in the secondary containment boundary was determined to be 22.5 square inches. Due to exceeding allowable total leakage in the current secondary containment isolation configuration, a violation of SR 3.6.4.1.5 (occurred). Action to establish a tested configuration with sufficient inleakage margin to restore compliance with SR 3.6.4.1.5 was completed September 27, 2016 at 2115 hrs. This event is being reported under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C) and per the guidance of NUREG 1022, Rev 3, Section 3.2.7 as a loss of a Safety Function. There is no redundant Susquehanna Secondary Containment System. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION AT 1444 EST ON 11/23/2016 FROM MANU SIVARAMAN TO MARK ABRAMOVITZ * * *

Following the 8 hour 10 CFR 50.72 notification made on September 27, 2016 (EN 52266), further engineering analysis determined that the as-found tear in the Zone 3 ductwork did not impact the ability of Secondary Containment to perform its safety function and that Secondary Containment was not inoperable as a result of the condition. To support the determination, a drawdown test was conducted in a limiting configuration (i.e. least inleakage margin). No substantial change in drawdown testing results were observed over the last three tests. These tests spanned over seven years. Additionally, repairs were promptly made to the affected area. As a result, this event notification is being retracted as it is not reportable pursuant to 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified the R1DO (Dwyer).

ENS 5135527 August 2015 17:47:00Brief Loss of Secondary Containment Due to Both Airlock Doors Open Simultaneously

On 8/27/2015 at 1347 (EDT), a cart and personnel were being traversed through an airlock in the Unit 2 reactor building and both airlock doors were inadvertently opened at the same time for a brief period of time (approximately one minute). Secondary Containment differential pressure was maintained throughout the time period that the doors were opened. The doors serve as a Secondary Containment boundary and at least one in series is required to be closed at all times for Secondary Containment Operability. This event is being reported under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v) and per the guidance of NUREG 1022 Rev 3 section 3.2.7 as a loss of a Safety Function. There is no redundant Susquehanna Secondary Containment System. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTED ON 10/22/15 AT 1645 EDT FROM ALEX MCLELLAN TO DONG PARK * * *

NUREG-1022, Revision 3, Section 3.2.7, 'Event or Condition that Could Have Prevented Fulfillment of a Safety Function,' states, in part, that 'events covered in paragraph (b)(3)(v) of this section may include one or more procedural errors, equipment failures, and/or discovery of design, analysis, fabrication, construction, and/or procedural inadequacies.' The level of judgment for reporting an event or condition under this criterion is a reasonable expectation of preventing fulfillment of a safety function. A SSC (System, Structure, and/or Component) that has been declared inoperable is one in which the SSC capability has been degraded to the point where it cannot perform with reasonable expectation or reliability. For SSCs within the scope of this criterion, a report is required when: - There is a determination that the SSC is inoperable in a required mode or other specified condition in the TS (Technical Specification) applicability, -The inoperability is due to one of more personnel errors, including procedure violations; equipment failures; inadequate maintenance; or design, analysis, fabrication, equipment qualification, construction, or procedural deficiencies, and -No redundant equipment in the same system was operable. Subsequent to the reporting of this condition, Susquehanna Nuclear, LLC performed an investigation of the event. Below are the results. When the airlock doors were opened at the same time, they were being operated as designed. Each individual had a 'green' light, which allowed them to open each door. Based on the investigation, the doors were open at the same time for approximately one second. In summary, the inoperability of Secondary Containment was not due to personnel error or a procedure violation. At the time of the event, both airlock doors were operable. No equipment failures, inadequate maintenance, or design, analysis, fabrication, equipment qualification, construction, or procedural deficiencies were identified. In summary, based on the above, the identified condition is not reportable in accordance with 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v), for an event or condition, that at the time of discovery, could have prevented the fulfillment of a safety function. As such, this 8-hour event notification is being retracted. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Gray).

Time of Discovery
ENS 496136 December 2013 17:48:00High Pressure Coolant Injection System Inoperable

At 1248 EST, Unit 2 High Pressure Coolant Injection (HPCI) system was being tested for routine quarterly flow verification using surveillance test procedure SO-252-002. When HPCI turbine speed was lowered to approximately 2400 RPM, oscillations on turbine speed, flow and discharge pressure were observed. HPCI turbine speed was raised to approximately 2700 RPM and the oscillations stopped. Unit 2 HPCI system had been declared inoperable and LCO 3.5.1 entered at 1200 EST for the surveillance test. (This is a 14 day LCO.) Review by Engineering determined that cause of the oscillations warrant further evaluation and HPCI remains inoperable. HPCI is a single train Emergency Core Cooling Safety system. This event results in the loss of an entire safety function which requires an 8 hour ENS notification in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v).

There are no other ECCS systems presently out of service. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM DARVIN DUTTRY TO JOHN SHOEMAKER AT 1201 EST ON 1/17/14 * * *

NUREG-1022, Revision 3, states, 'if the retraction or cancellation of a report under this criterion is due to a revised operability determination, the retraction or cancellation should discuss the basis for why the operability determination was revised, and why it is believed that system operability was never lost (i.e., in lieu of the initial determination).' As indicated in the initial report, Engineering determined that the cause of the oscillations required further evaluation and HPCI remained inoperable. Additional evaluation by Engineering resulted in a conclusion that HPCI was OPERABLE with the observed oscillations at the low flow conditions. Details are as follows: HPCI speed/flow oscillations at low flow conditions can occur due to inherent instability at these conditions. This phenomenon is understood and documented in industry OE (Operating Experience), EPRI (Electric Power Research Institute) maintenance guidelines, and station procedures. HPCI system operation and control during the surveillance were as expected and demonstrated proper response and stable operation, with the only exception being the described oscillations at the low flow condition. This was confirmed by a review of the system response on the start-up traces. A system walkdown confirmed no abnormality with the control system equipment or governor setting. No tuning adjustments were considered to be necessary based on the low magnitude of the oscillations and their negligible impact on system operation. Unit 2 HPCI was declared OPERABLE and LCO 3.5.1 was cleared at 2308 (EST) on December 6, 2013. Based on the above additional information, PPL (Pennsylvania Power and Light) is retracting this report. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified the R1DO (Rogge).

ENS 4953113 November 2013 07:26:00Secondary Containment Zone II Differential Pressure Lost During Recovery from Ventilation Drawdown Test

On November 13, 2013 at 0226 (EST), Secondary Containment Zone II (Unit 2 Reactor Building) differential pressure was lost during restoration of a ventilation drawdown test. During restoration Unit 2 'A' Train Reactor Building Ventilation fans tripped. The 'B' Train fans were placed in service and secondary containment was restored. Zone I (Unit 1 Reactor Building) and III (Common Refuel Floor Area) ventilation remained in service and stable. Zone II differential pressure recovered within a few minutes and was verified to be stable. LCO 3.6.4.1 was exited for both units at 0257 (EST). Tech Spec Secondary Containment Operability requires a negative pressure of at least 0.25 inches water gauge. There have been no further perturbations in differential pressure and secondary containment remains operable. This event is being reported under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(c) and per the guidance of NUREG 1022 Rev 3 section 3.2.7 as a loss of a Safety Function. There is no redundant Susquehanna Secondary Containment System. The cause of the Unit 2 "A" Train Reactor Building ventilation fans tripping is still under investigation. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION ON 1/10/14 AT 1657 EST FROM DOUG LAMARCA TO NESTOR MAKRIS * * *

NUREG-1022, Revision 3 states, ' reports are not required when systems are declared inoperable as part of a planned evolution for maintenance or surveillance testing when done in accordance with an approved procedure and the plant's TS (unless a condition is discovered that would have resulted in the system being declared inoperable).' The event reported in this event notification occurred during a pre-planned evolution for surveillance testing that was done in accordance with an approved procedure and the Susquehanna Technical Specifications. The loss of differential pressure occurred during restoration from the surveillance test and occurred prior to completing the planned evolution and declaring the system OPERABLE. Specifically, the trip of the fans occurred when restoring the Reactor Building normal ventilation after a Zone 1, 2, and 3 isolation (returning back to normal ventilation from the Standby Gas Treatment System). The secondary containment boundary and standby gas treatment system were unaffected. This event occurred as a result of the testing process and would not have occurred during normal operation of the system. There was no discovered condition that would have resulted in the safety function of the system being declared inoperable under normal, non-testing conditions. Based on the above additional information, PPL is retracting this report. Susquehanna was in a planned evolution and did not discover a condition that could have prevented performing a safety function. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified the R1DO (Schmidt).

ENS 488117 March 2013 06:35:00High Pressure Coolant Injection Declared Inoperable

At 0135 EST, Unit 2 High Pressure Coolant Injection (HPCI) system was declared inoperable, and LCO 3.5.1 entered, due to its turbine steam exhaust valve failing in the closed position during the quarterly valve exercising surveillance. The supply breaker tripped when the opening stroke was attempted. The valve was verified to have remained fully closed via the manual operator. HPCI will not automatically start with this valve closed. HPCI is a single train Emergency Core Cooling Safety (ECCS) system. This event results in the loss of an entire safety function which requires an 8 hour ENS notification in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v) and the guidance provided under NUREG-1022, rev. 2. There are no other ECCS systems presently out of service. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

* * * RETRACTION FROM TODD CREASY TO PETE SNYDER ON 5/3/13 AT 1401 EDT * * * 

The reported condition, described above, was further evaluated by PPL Susquehanna, LLC (PPL). The following is additional information concerning the condition: The HPCI Turbine Exhaust valve (HV255F066): 1) is a DC motor operated valve with no design features which cause automatic valve actuation, 2) is manipulated by remote Operator action to open or close the valve, 3) is designed as a normally open valve to support the HPCI function, and 4) is manually closed for long-term containment isolation. When the HPCI turbine exhaust valve was stroked, the valve successfully closed; however, position indication was lost when attempting to re-open the valve. Troubleshooting identified a faulty relay contact that in conjunction with the operator repositioning the key lock switch from CLOSE to OPEN caused a direct short in the circuit. NUREG-1022, Revision 2, Section 3.2.7, provides the following example of a condition that is not reportable under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v): Removal of a system or part of a system from service as part of a planned evolution for maintenance or surveillance testing when done in accordance with an approved procedure and the plant's TS (unless a condition is discovered that could have prevented the system from performing its function). When the failure of the HV255F066 occurred, HPCI was properly removed from service for planned quarterly valve exercising in accordance with an approved surveillance procedure and LCO 3.5.1. Since HV255F066 is a normally open valve, a failure to open does not impact the safety function to provide a flow path for HPCI exhaust since routine valve stroking or maintenance that might close the valve would not be conducted in an accident scenario where HPCI would be required to start and closure associated with long-term containment isolation would only occur after the HPCI function is complete (i.e., the failure to open was introduced by the testing activity and would not occur in a scenario in which the valve is required to perform its safety function to open). With regard to the long-term containment isolation function, the faulty relay contact failed in a manner that prevented the valve from opening but did not prevent the valve from closing. Based on closure of the valve during the test, there was no pre-existing operability issue associated with its safety function to close. Furthermore, even without credit for HV255F066, the containment isolation safety function would be maintained by Check Valve 255F049 and Drain Isolation Valve 255F013. Based on the above additional information, PPL is retracting this report. Susquehanna was in a planned evolution and did not discover a condition that could have prevented performing a safety function. The licensee will notify the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Hunegs).

ENS 4852520 November 2012 11:45:00Condition That Could Have Prevented Automatic Isolation of Reactor Water Cleanup System

Susquehanna Unit 2 discovered a condition that could have prevented the primary containment isolation valves for the reactor water cleanup (RWCU) system from automatically isolating on a high differential flow instrumentation signal. The RWCU system high differential flow signal was found to be indicating downscale due to an instrument failure. Both divisions of the RWCU high differential flow isolation logic utilize the same differential flow instrument loop. Thus, this single instrument failure would have prevented automatic isolation of the RWCU inboard and outboard primary containment isolation valves on a high differential flow signal. The other RWCU primary containment isolation instrumentation functions remained operable and the associated RWCU system primary containment isolation valves were capable of being remotely closed by the control room operators. At the time of discovery, Unit 2 was in Mode 2 due to an unplanned shutdown and all control rods had already been fully inserted as part of a soft shutdown sequence. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM DUTTRY TO KLCO ON 1/11/13 AT 2155 EST * * *

Following the ENS report (EN 48525), Susquehanna determined that although the RWCU high differential flow isolation instrumentation would have prevented automatic isolation of the RWCU inboard and outboard primary containment isolation valves on a high differential flow signal, the RWCU high flow isolation instrumentation would detect a high flow condition and generate an isolation signal that would close the isolation valves. The RWCU high differential flow instrumentation is downstream of the RWCU pumps and it calculates the difference (delta) in flow between the inlet and the outlet of the RWCU heat exchangers. The SSES (Susquehanna Steam Electric Station) Technical Specification (TS) Bases Section 3.3.6.1 states that the RWCU Differential Flow signal is to detect a break in the RWCU system (pipe severance and separation). Engineering analysis determined that the RWCU pumps would run-out if a break occurs downstream of the pumps and the RWCU system flow rate would be approximately 1000 gpm, with one RWCU pump in operation. The flow rate would be higher for two RWCU pumps in operation. Therefore, RWCU isolation would occur from the RWCU Flow - High isolation signal due to a flow rate that is greater than 472 gpm (TS Table 3.3.6.1-1). This high flow isolation does not rely on the RWCU high differential flow instrumentation. The above analysis is consistent with the FSAR discussion in section 7.3.1.1a.2.4.1.9.3. Based on the above, Susquehanna has determined that the RWCU isolation function would still be completed if a pipe break occurred downstream of the RWCU heat exchangers and the RWCU high differential flow instrumentation is inoperable. Since there was no loss of safety function of structures or systems that are needed to control the release of radioactive material, this ENS report is retracted. The licensee will notify the NRC Resident Inspector.

Time of Discovery
ENS 4829310 September 2012 14:25:00Both Units Entered Technical Specification 3.0.3 Due to Inoperable Control Structure Chillers

Unit 1 and Unit 2 entered LCO 3.0.3 due to both Control Structure (CS) chillers 'A & B' concurrently inoperable. At 1025 (EDT), the control room was notified that the 'B' CS Chiller was not running. There were no control room alarms due to this condition. Review of indications on control room panel 0C681 noted that the loop circ pump and all three CS fans remained in service. Indication of CS loop flow and loop temperature remained normal, approximately 600 gpm and 44 degrees. The 'B' CS Chiller restarted at 1027 (EDT) and normal system parameters were observed. Work on the 'A' CS Chiller was released at 0928 (EDT) on 9/10/2012 for scheduled maintenance, LCO's 3.7.3 and 3.7.4 were entered, however no work had actually commenced or was performed. The 'A' CS Chiller remained available and in standby during the entire evolution. Since the cause of the 'B' CS Chiller to shutdown has not been determined, the 'B' CS Chiller was declared inoperable. Inoperability of both CS chillers 'A & B' required immediate entry into LCO 3.0.3 per TS 3.7.4 Condition D. Both chillers were inoperable from 1025 (EDT) until 1042 (EDT) (17 minutes), when the 'A' CS Chiller was restored to operable status. This condition is being reported as an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function per 10CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee informed the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM LICHTNER TO CROUCH AT 2008 EDT ON 10/08/12 * * *

This event was reported as a condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function per 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D) because the 'A' Control Structure (CS) chiller was released for scheduled maintenance (LCO's 3.7.3 and 3.7.4 were entered), although no physical work had begun on the 'A' CS chiller. Concurrent with the 'A' chiller being in the aforementioned status, the 'B' CS chiller shutdown for approximately 2.5 minutes before automatically restarting. Following the ENS report, Susquehanna determined that although it had shutdown, the 'B' CS chiller remained operable and capable of fulfilling all its design functions. The chiller shutdown was not due to operation of a safety trip. Under safety trip conditions, automatic restart of the chiller would have been prevented and alarms would have been received in the control room. Rather, the event was due to chiller load recycle operation during which the chiller is designed to shutdown at approximately 5 degrees F below the normal operating chilled water temperature and automatically restart. Troubleshooting did not detect any faulty components and the chiller has remained in operation for greater than 48 hours since the shutdown, without a repeat event. Additionally, although the 'A' CS chiller was declared inoperable due to entry into LCO's 3.7.3 and 3.7.4 to perform routine maintenance, no physical action had been taken to disable the 'A' chiller. Therefore, the 'A' CS chiller was capable of auto-starting and performing its safety function for all design conditions while in the LCO's. Based on the above information, Susquehanna has determined that since both the 'A' and the 'B' CS chillers were available and capable of performing their design safety functions, there was no loss of safety function therefore this ENS report is retracted. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Trapp).

ENS 4784417 April 2012 19:40:00Unit 2 Secondary Containment Affected by Violation of Unit 1 Secondary Containment Integrity During Outage

At 1540 (EDT) on 4/17/12, with Unit 1 in mode 5 and Unit 2 in mode 1, the Work Control Center was notified that the U1 #2 Main Stop Valve (MSV) was disassembled. The U1 #2 MSV was required to be intact to maintain Unit 1 Secondary Containment. Ongoing work on the D Main Steam Line Outboard Valve created a pathway that violated Unit 1 secondary containment integrity. Unit 1 Secondary Containment is required to be operable for Unit 2 while Unit 1 Zone 1 is aligned to the Recirculation Plenum. Unit 1 Zone 1 was isolated from the recirculation plenum and Unit 2 Secondary Containment was restored at 1643 (EDT) on 4/17/12. Unit 2 Secondary Containment differential pressures were maintained throughout the event. This is considered a loss of an entire safety function and requires an 8 hour report per 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(C). The licensee is still investigating the cause but it appears to be associated with recent administrative changes to the Reactor Vessel draining definition and work process procedures. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

      • RETRACTION FROM RON FRY TO S. SANDIN ON 6/7/12 AT 0205 EDT ***

The licensee is retracting this report based on the following: On April 17, 2012, work on the Unit 1 'D' Main Steam Line Outboard Valve with the Unit 1 #2 Main Stop Valve disassembled created a pathway that violated Unit 1 secondary containment integrity. Since Unit 1 Secondary Containment is required to be operable for Unit 2 while Unit 1 Zone 1 would be aligned to the Recirculation Plenum in the event of a secondary containment isolation signal, the condition impacted Unit 2 Secondary Containment. Susquehanna considered the impact a loss of safety function and reported the impact in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(C). Following the ENS report, Susquehanna analyzed the impact of the opening. Calculations were performed that show secondary containment would have maintained the dose consequences to the public and control room operators within regulatory limits (10 CFR 50.67) assuming a Unit 2 design basis accident (Unit 1 was in a refueling outage at the time of the condition). Based on the above information, Susquehanna has determined that there was no loss of safety function and this ENS report is retracted. The licensee informed the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO(Cahill).

ENS 478147 April 2012 17:54:00Transport of Potentially Contaminated Worker

On 04/07/2012 at 1354 (EDT), Susquehanna Steam Electric Station requested an offsite ambulance via the 911 system for medical assistance. The individual was in the radiologically controlled area and was treated as contaminated. An offsite ambulance arrived on site at 1413 hrs. and the ambulance departed the site at 1424 hrs. enroute to the Berwick Hospital. This is considered a transport of a contaminated individual requiring an 8 hour ENS Notification per 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xii). Licensee health physic technicians accompanied the individual to the hospital. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM DARVIN DUTTRY TO JOHN SHOEMAKER ON 04/18/2012 AT 1522 EDT * * *

On 04/07/2012, PPL Susquehanna reported that a potentially contaminated individual was transported offsite via ambulance for medical assistance. The individual had been in the radiologically controlled area when the event occurred, and for medical reasons could not be completely surveyed for radioactive contamination prior to transport to the hospital. Therefore the event was considered transport of a contaminated individual. Health Physics personnel accompanied the individual to the hospital and conducted surveys of the individual, ambulance and hospital equipment and facilities. The results of these surveys indicated that no contamination was detected and the individual, ambulance and all hospital facilities and equipment were non-contaminated. Based on the above information, reporting pursuant to 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xii) described in the referenced Event Notification is retracted. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Joustra).

ENS 469254 June 2011 20:14:00Both Control Structure Chillers Out of Service

On 06/04/2011, personnel observed the temperature control valve for the 'B' control structure chiller not operating properly. To investigate control valve operation, the controller was taken to the manual mode (from automatic) at 1614 (EDT). The control valve stem was lubricated, and the valve was operated with the controller in the manual mode. The 'B' control structure chiller was inoperable in this condition until control valve responsiveness was validated (total of 35 minutes, until 1649 (EDT)). The 'B' chiller continued to operate during this period. The 'A' control structure chiller was out of service during this timeframe to perform maintenance activities. Hence, neither chiller was operable. The control structure chillers provide control building habitability during unit operation. The control structure chillers also provide cooling water for emergency switchgear room cooling on unit one only. This condition is being reported as an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function per 10CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION ON 7/22/2011 AT 1519 FROM LONNIE CRAWFORD TO MARK ABRAMOVITZ * * *

On June 4, 2011, Susquehanna reported the simultaneous inoperability of both control structure (CS) chillers as an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function in accordance with 10CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). After further investigation, Susquehanna has concluded that the 'A' and 'B' CS chillers were not inoperable at the same time. On June 3, 2011 at 1608, fluctuating amperage was observed on the 'A' CS chiller and the chiller was declared inoperable. As a result, the 'B' CS chiller was placed in service with the 'A' CS chiller placed in standby. Subsequent troubleshooting of the 'A' CS chiller included replacing the chiller temperature controller with a spare while the original controller was evaluated in the shop. The original controller was re-installed on June 4, 2011 at approximately 1030 but did not resolve the issue. The 'A' CS chiller was later shutdown and removed from standby on June 4, 2011 at 1727. Originally, Susquehanna believed that the fluctuating amperage on the 'A' chiller was an operability issue. Subsequent engineering evaluation has determined that the observed oscillations were not rapid enough and did not have sufficient amplitude to cause damage to the chiller motor and were within design limits. The conclusion is that the 'A' control structure chiller was operable and would continue to operate for its 30 day mission time with the observed current oscillations. Although the 'A' chiller was inoperable as a result of troubleshooting at various times on June 3 and 4, the 'A' chiller was available and operable during the short period of time on June 4 when the 'B' chiller was inoperable. . Based on the above information, this ENS report is retracted. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified the R1DO (Dentel).

Mission time
ENS 4626822 September 2010 12:30:00High Pressure Coolant Injection System Inoperable Due to a Minor Lube Oil Leak

At 0830 (EDT) on 09/22/2010, the Unit 2 High Pressure Coolant Injection (HPCI) system was determined to be inoperable due to a minor lube oil leak on the 'A' supply filter. LCO 3.5.1 for the HPCI system was entered at 0830 (EDT) on 09/22/2010. The leak on the 'A' filter could not be immediately corrected. The 'B' filter was placed in service and leak checked satisfactorily. The LCO 3.5.1 action statements were closed at 1454 (EDT) on 09/22/2010. This incident is being reported as an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function required to mitigate the consequences of an accident in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM RONALD FRY TO DONG PARK AT 1609 EST ON 11/18/10 * * *

At 1501 on September 22, 2010, PPL Susquehanna, LLC reported that the Unit 2 High Pressure Coolant Injection (HPCI) system was inoperable due to a minor lube oil leak on the 'A' supply filter. Subsequent investigation and evaluation determined that HPCI was capable of performing all of its safety functions with the identified oil leak. The operability determination was based on the following: Investigation of the leak identified that the installed filter housing cover o-ring was undersized and had to be inappropriately stretched to fit in the o-ring groove in the housing cover. The cover is torqued to 75 ft-lbs by four bolts on the outer diameter of the cover, enclosing the o-ring in a metal to metal connection. There is no concern for the o-ring to extrude from the cover under this configuration. The worst case that can be postulated as a result of the undersized o-ring is a leak in which the drops break into a small stream. This type of leak is expected to result in less than 10 gallons of oil loss during the system's 6 hour mission time. The vendor recommended oil reserve level is approximately 124 gallons. The lube oil sump has a 155 gallon capacity and the remaining oil (approximately 145 gallons) is sufficient to support operability. As a result, the worst case leakage is not expected to affect operability of HPCI or result in system failure during the HPCI mission time. Operations verifies oil level weekly and prior to any planned run. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Gray).

Mission time
ENS 4507316 May 2009 22:01:00Failure of High Pressure Coolant Injection Steam Supply Valve to Close During Test

At 1801 on 5/16/2009, the HPCI turbine steam supply valve (HV255F001) failed to close during shutdown of the system following performance of its quarterly flow surveillance. The auxiliary oil pump was de-energized to prevent an inadvertent start of HPCI and the HPCI system was declared inoperable. LCO 3.5.1 for the HPCI system being inoperable was entered at 1720 on 5/16/2009 at the start of the HPCI surveillance. An investigation is in progress to determine the nature of the problem. This is being reported as an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function required to mitigate the consequences of an accident in accordance with 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION ON 7/16/09 AT 1543 FROM TODD CREASEY TO CHARLES TEAL * * *

On May 16, 2009, the HPCI system was declared inoperable at 1720 hours and LCO 3.5.1 was entered to support the planned quarterly HPCI flow surveillance test. During the surveillance test, at 1801 hours, the HPCI turbine steam supply valve (HV255F001) failed to close during shutdown of the system. It was also identified that neither the open nor closed indication lamp in the control room were lit. Troubleshooting was performed by cycling the valve's breaker in an attempt to restore power to the HPCI steam supply valve. No movement of the valve was observed. Because the position of the HPCI steam supply valve was unknown, Operations secured HPCI by opening the auxiliary oil pump breaker for the purpose of conducting additional troubleshooting (maintenance) of the failure of the HV255F001 valve to close. On 5/16/09 at 2004 hours EDT, Susquehanna made an 8-hour ENS notification (45703) to the NRC, due to HPCI being declared inoperable when HV255F001 failed to close during performance of the quarterly surveillance. Subsequent investigation concluded that the HPCI turbine steam supply valve (HV255F001) did close as expected, but did not indicate closed due to a loss of position indication. It was determined that the closed indicating lamp had burned out. Upon replacement of the lamp, the valve was successfully stroked open and closed and HPCI was declared operable at 0800 EDT 5/17/2009. Because a condition did not exist at the time of discovery that could have prevented the fulfillment of a safety function in accordance with 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), EN #45073 is hereby being retracted. It should be noted that the subsequent action to disable HPCI by opening the auxiliary oil pump break does not preclude retraction of the ENS notification. This action did not create a new reportable condition since HPCI was already inoperable for planned surveillance testing. This action was taken as part of troubleshooting activities (maintenance) on the HV255F001 valve and to prevent an inadvertent start of HPCI. The NRC Resident has been notified. Notified R1DO (Gray)

Time of Discovery
ENS 4450318 September 2008 22:48:00Hpci Inoperable Due to Missing Insulation

At 1848 on 09/18/2008, the control room was notified by system engineering that insulation was missing from the bottom of the HPCI turbine that could result in nearby electronic components being subjected to higher than design temperatures. This could challenge the ability of the HPCI system to perform its design function for the prescribed mission times. The condition does not prevent the high pressure coolant injection system from automatically starting and injecting during an accident. The longer term ability of the system to continue to inject is challenged by the existing condition. The HPCI system was immediately declared inoperable while engineering continues to evaluate the condition to determine if an actual loss of design function has occurred. This is being reported as an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function required to mitigate the consequences of an accident in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION ON 11/12/2008 AT 1616 FROM MARTIN LICHTNER TO MARK ABRAMOVITZ * * *

On September 18, 2008, PPL Susquehanna LLC reported a potential loss of the HPCI safety function under the provisions of 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The report was made when it was discovered that insulation was missing from the bottom of the Unit 2 HPCI turbine. This situation raised concerns that increased area temperatures could adversely affect nearby electronic equipment needed to support long-term HPCI operation. A subsequent investigation has determined that all potentially affected components were rated for operation at temperatures greater than those anticipated during HPCI operation with the missing insulation. An additional physical inspection confirmed that there was no abnormal discoloration or visible signs of accelerated thermal aging on the components and wires in question. It has therefore been concluded that HPCI operability had not been impacted by the missing insulation. Accordingly, the loss of safety function reported on September 18th under ENS # 44503 is being retracted. The insulation has since been restored to the HPCI turbine. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified the R1DO (Trapp).

Mission time
ENS 413909 February 2005 14:20:00Both Trains of the Control Structure Emergency Outside Air Supply System Inoperable

At 09:20 am, on February 9th, the control room declared both trains of Control Structure Emergency Outside Air Supply System (CREOASS) inoperable. The control room was notified of an inoperable boundary door that was not closed and latched and therefore would not have allowed CREOASS to perform its safety function of maintaining the Control Structure at a positive pressure if required. The door was closed and locked (at 11:15) to restore the habitability boundary. The door has since been repaired (adjustment of latch mechanism). Initial investigation determined that the door had been unlocked at approximately 09:20 this morning by an elevator vendor to perform maintenance. This is being reported as an event or condition that could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function required to mitigate the consequences of an accident. CREOASS was not called upon to function during the period that the door was not operable. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM LICENSEE (ROBINSON) TO NRC (HUFFMAN) @ 1328 EDT ON 4/8/05 * * *

The following information was provided by the licensee (licensee text in quotes): On 2/9/2005, PPL Susquehanna LLC reported a loss of safety function for the Control Room Emergency Outside Air Supply System (CREOASS) based on one of the Control Structure Habitability boundary doors being found partially open. Positive air pressure generated by the Control Structure HVAC System prevented the door closure mechanism from maintaining the door closed. The door was closed to restore the habitability boundary. The event was reported as a condition that could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function required to mitigate the consequences of an accident. The Safety Function of the CREOASS is to provide adequate radiation protection to permit occupancy of the Control Room under accident conditions for the duration of the accident. The CREOASS accomplishes this by: 1) filtering the outside make-up air supply and 2) maintaining a positive pressure in the control structure habitability boundary to limit unfiltered air in leakage into the boundary. A subsequent engineering evaluation concluded that with the door closure mechanism providing a resistive force, CREOASS would have been able to maintain a positive pressure within the boundary and perform its safety function as described above. In conclusion, the reported condition did not result in a loss of safety function under 10CFR50.72 (b)(3)(v)(D) and is therefore being retracted. The NRC Resident Inspector and R1DO (Noggle) have been notified.

ENS 406465 April 2004 15:40:00Loss of Safety Function for Emergency Diesel Generators During Surveillance Testing

At 1040 hrs during setup for Unit 1 Division 1 LOCA/LOOP Surveillance testing, the controlling procedure required making the Loss of Power instrumentation for the 1A and 1C ESS buses inoperable. The specification has a 1 hour time limit for restoration, or the associated Diesel Generators must be declared inoperable. Due to delays during the setup of equipment the time requirements were not met, and the 'E' (Substituting for 'A') and 'C' Diesel Generators were declared inoperable at 1140 hrs. The Loss of Power instruments were restored, and the Diesel Generators declared operable at 1206 hrs. Unit 1 is in Mode 5 requiring only 2 diesel generators operable, therefore not impacted by the Loss of Power instrumentation inoperability. Also during the surveillance, two pump start timers failed to meet the required acceptance criteria. The 'A' ESW Pump timer actuated at 47.86 seconds (criteria; 36 sec. to 44 sec) and the 'C' ESW Pump timer actuated at 50.38 seconds (criteria: 39.6 sec. to 48.4 sec). With failure of the timers, proper loading on the Diesel Generators is not assured, and they were declared inoperable until the associated pump control breakers were opened. The 'E' Diesel Generator was declared inoperable at 1448 hrs, when the data analysis identified that the 'A' ESW pump timer did not meet acceptance criteria. The 'E' Diesel Generator was returned to operable at 1453 hrs when the DC Knife switches for the 'A' ESW pump were open. The 'C' Diesel Generator was declared inoperable at 1524 hrs, when the data analysis identified that the 'C' ESW pump timer did not meet acceptance criteria. The 'C' Diesel Generator was restored to operable at 1706 hrs after supported systems were realigned to prevent further loss of safety function and the DC Knife switches for the 'C' ESW pump were open. The Susquehanna safety analysis requires three operable Diesel Generators to safely shutdown the plant. Therefore with only two operable Diesel Generators, the condition requires an 8 hr ENS notification in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)and (vi). All times referenced above are EDT. The licensee informed the NRC Resident Inspector.

* * * RETRACTION FROM R. FRY TO M. RIPLEY 1419 ET ON 05/27/04 * * * *

The following is a retraction of ENS Notification #40642 AND #40646: On April 5, 2004, PPL Susquehanna, LLC reported three events to the NRC associated with Unit 1 Division 1 LOCA/LOOP surveillance testing. In each case, the safety function of two (out of 4) emergency diesel generators was brought into question during the testing. In two of these events, the E (substituting for A) and C diesel generators were administratively declared inoperable per Technical Specifications. This was necessary because Loss of Power instrumentation for the 1A and 1C buses, rendered inoperable in support of the test procedure, was not restored within 1 hour. In the third event, the E (for A) and C emergency diesel generators were, again, declared inoperable when two ESW pump start timers failed to meet acceptance criteria thus bringing the proper start sequencing of emergency loads into question. Because the Susquehanna Safety Analysis requires three diesel generators to safely shutdown an operating unit, the potential compromise of the diesel generator safety function was a concern for Unit 2 in each instance. (NOTE: Unit 1 was in Refueling Mode 5 and was, therefore, not impacted by these events.) Accordingly, Control Room personnel conservatively initiated ENS reporting under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v) in response to the apparent loss of safety function for Unit 2. Subsequent engineering analysis has concluded that, although the declaration of diesel generator inoperability was correct and in accordance with Technical Specifications, fulfillment of these administrative actions did not result in an actual loss of safety function during any of the above described events. Details of the analysis show that the diesel generators were available to supply emergency power to the ESS buses and/or that sufficient redundant equipment was available to fulfill the safety function needs of Unit 2. These analysis conclusions provide the basis for retraction of the ENS reports made on April 5, 2004." The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (R. Conte)

ENS 406425 April 2004 05:30:00Loss of Safety Function for Emergency Diesel Generators During Surveillance Testing

At 0030 (ET) during setup for Unit 1 Division 1 LOCA/LOOP Surveillance testing, the controlling procedure required making the Loss of Power instrumentation for the 1A and 1C ESS buses inoperable. The specification has a 1 hour time limit for restoration, or the associated Diesel Generators must be declared inoperable. Due to delays during the setup of equipment the time requirements were not met, and the associated Diesel Generators were declared inoperable at 0130. The Susquehanna Safety Analysis requires three operable Diesel Generators to safely shutdown. Therefore, this condition is reportable for Unit 2 under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v). Unit 1 is in Mode 5 and therefore not impacted. The Loss of Power instruments were restored, and the Diesel Generators declared operable at 0223. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * * RETRACTION FROM R. FRY TO M. RIPLEY 1419 ET ON 05/27/04 * * * *

The following is a retraction of ENS Notification #40642 AND #40646: On April 5, 2004, PPL Susquehanna, LLC reported three events to the NRC associated with Unit 1 Division 1 LOCA/LOOP surveillance testing. In each case, the safety function of two (out of 4) emergency diesel generators was brought into question during the testing. In two of these events, the E (substituting for A) and C diesel generators were administratively declared inoperable per Technical Specifications. This was necessary because Loss of Power instrumentation for the 1A and 1C buses, rendered inoperable in support of the test procedure, was not restored within 1 hour. In the third event, the E (for A) and C emergency diesel generators were, again, declared inoperable when two ESW pump start timers failed to meet acceptance criteria thus bringing the proper start sequencing of emergency loads into question. Because the Susquehanna Safety Analysis requires three diesel generators to safely shutdown an operating unit, the potential compromise of the diesel generator safety function was a concern for Unit 2 in each instance. (NOTE: Unit 1 was in Refueling Mode 5 and was, therefore, not impacted by these events.) Accordingly, Control Room personnel conservatively initiated ENS reporting under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v) in response to the apparent loss of safety function for Unit 2. Subsequent engineering analysis has concluded that, although the declaration of diesel generator inoperability was correct and in accordance with Technical Specifications, fulfillment of these administrative actions did not result in an actual loss of safety function during any of the above described events. Details of the analysis show that the diesel generators were available to supply emergency power to the ESS buses and/or that sufficient redundant equipment was available to fulfill the safety function needs of Unit 2. These analysis conclusions provide the basis for retraction of the ENS reports made on April 5, 2004." The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (R. Conte)

ENS 4027223 October 2003 20:40:00Nonemergency Notification Due to Failure to Maintain Control Structure Habitability Envelope

During routine monitoring, Control Room personnel noted control structure pressure differential was below the 1/8" (inches of water pressure) required to maintain the Control Structure Habitability Envelope. A walkdown of the Control Structure and initial investigation has revealed no obvious problems that would cause the low positive pressure condition. Due to the inability of the Control Structure HVAC to maintain a positive pressure, both trains of Control Room Emergency Outside Air Supply system were declared inoperable. This is considered a Loss of Safety Function in accordance with 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * * RETRACTION FROM A. FITCH TO M. RIPLEY 1343 ET 12/12/03 * * * *

At the time of the original 8-hour ENS notification was made, both trains of the Control Room Emergency Outside Air Supply (CREOAS) system were declared inoperable due to the failure of the Control Structure HVAC system to maintain the control structure habitability envelope at a pressure greater than + 1/8" w.g. (water gauge) with respect to outside atmosphere. Subsequent to this event, an evaluation was performed which determined that the requirement to maintain the control structure habitability envelope at a pressure greater than + 1/8" w.g. is only applicable during emergency operating conditions. Under emergency conditions, the CREOAS system, in conjunction with the Control Structure HVAC system, is required to maintain control structure pressure greater than + 1/8" w.g. in accordance with Technical Specification 3.7.3. However, during normal plant operation, the design function of the Control Structure HVAC system is to maintain the habitability envelope at a positive pressure above atmospheric. No specific value is required. Differential pressure readings for the control structure indicated that pressure was maintained above atmospheric at the time of this event. On October 24, 2003, surveillance testing successfully demonstrated that the Control Structure HVAC and CREOAS systems were capable of maintaining the control structure habitability envelope at a pressure greater than + 1/8" w.g. As such, there was no loss of safety function. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (A. Della Greca)

ENS 401345 September 2003 13:33:00High Pressure Coolant Injection (Hpci) Declared Inoperable.

At 09:30 EDT, Unit 1 was performing the HPCI Quarterly Flow verification surveillance. Shortly after the initiation of the system an abnormally loud bang was heard. System flow of approximately 5200 gpm and discharge pressure of approximately 1300 psi was achieved at approximately 09:33. Approximately 4 seconds after reaching rated system flow HPCI discharge pressure increased to approximately 1675 psi and system flow dropped to approximately 2700 gpm. HPCI had been declared inoperable at 08:35 EDT to perform the surveillance and will remain inoperable until the cause of the loss of system flow is corrected. Because HPCI is a single train ECCS (Emergency Core Cooling System) safety system, this event results in the loss of an entire safety function which requires an 8 hour ENS notification in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v) and the guidance provided under NUREG-1022, rev. 2. There are no other ECCS systems presently out of service. Reactor Core Isolation Cooling (RCIC) is fully operable and HPCI entered Tech Spec 3.5.1 (14 day Limiting Condition of Operation). All other ECCS systems are fully operable. The NRC Resident Inspector was notified of this event by the licensee.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM WALSH TO CROUCH ON 10/02/03 @ 1548 EDT* * *

On 09/05/2003, PPL Susquehanna LLC made an ENS notification per 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v) in response to an apparent loss of the HPCI (High Pressure Coolant Injection) safety function. In the event, results of HPCI Quarterly Flow Surveillance testing did not meet acceptance criteria established for the system. Investigation into the cause of the failed HPCI surveillance revealed a 360-degree weld crack on the HPCI Test Line to Condensate Storage Tank (CST) Valve, HV155F008. HV155F008 is not in the reactor vessel injection flowpath. The impact of this crack, which was located between the valve seat cage assembly and the valve body, was that the HPCI Test Line to CST valve was not capable of throttling over the full range of HPCI system flows. Valve performance became erratic at higher flows because the valve seat cage was lifted out of the valve body into the flow path, increasing system resistance, and preventing attainment of design flow in the HPCI test loop. While the ability to effectively test the HPCI system using the test return path to the CST was compromised, the HPCI injection flowpath to the reactor vessel was not adversely affected by the damaged valve. Accordingly, the HPCI system maintained full capability for providing sufficient coolant to the reactor vessel in the event of a small break loss-of-coolant accident. Because the HPCI safety function was not compromised by the identified test path obstruction, this ENS notification is being retracted. The Licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Cobey).