Utility Week

UTILITY WEEK | 28TH SEPTEMBER - 4TH OCTOBER 2018 | 17 Operations & Assets In a time when nuclear power is under the micro- scope in the UK, it is more important than ever for builders and utility compa- nies alike to analyse compo- nent selection in both new builds and refurbishment projects. Even seemingly small-scale components can have a significant impact on total cost of ownership and overall safety. In nuclear power plants, smooth operation and overall safety are dictated by the sum of the durability and longevity of all parts. However, not all components in nuclear power plants are capable of deliver- ing long-term performance and withstanding potential severe accident conditions. Component failure in a severe accident scenario can have catastrophic consequences, especially in the instrumenta- tion and control (I&C) chain. What should be done to establish best practices and make sure nuclear power plants incorporate the safest and most robust components possible? In July 2017, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) issued TECDOC report #1818 detailing recommendations for the "establishment of an international technical basis to be considered when assessing the electrical and I&C equipment's reliable performance under severe accident conditions". Such a basis would alleviate the potential issue of components being subject to conditions exceeding original design basis assumptions in severe accidents. The good news is there are superior components already available. Glass-to-metal sealed electrical penetrations, which represent a far more robust alternative to polymer- sealed counterparts, are one example. Glass-sealed penetra- tion assemblies have a 60-year qualified lifetime, require no maintenance, and have been tested to withstand extended exposure to high temperature and pressure levels observed in severe accidents. The ability of glass-sealed penetrations to match or even exceed the reactor lifetime results in lower cost of ownership by eliminat- ing the need for replacements, contrary to polymer seals which can wear out in just 15-25 years. Greater safety and longev- ity, reduced maintenance, and lower cost of ownership are a few of the key benefits that are realised when utilising the most robust materials and components available in nuclear power plants. In a time of new-build focus for nuclear projects, the UK has the opportunity to become a world leader in nuclear power with the right steps and mindful component selections. Thomas Fink, General Manager, Nuclear Safety Division: SCHOTT For more information, visit: www.schott.com/ nuclear-safety EXPERT VIEW THOMAS FINK, SCHOTT Small components with big benefits: higher safety and lower cost of ownership for nuclear power plants time this innovative technology has been used on the GB trans- mission system. This resulted in a far smaller footprint on the land and a less visually intrusive impact than both steel lattice towers and twin trident wooden poles would have had. In order to install the innova- tive technology in the tight time- scales required to meet the grid connection date, a specialist air crane helicopter was deployed to fly the poles into position. All 140 composite poles required for the grid connection were safely and successfully installed in just five days – far less time than conventional crane installation methods would have taken. If you have an asset or project you would like to see featured in this slot, email: paulnewton@ fav-house.com.

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