nuclear-news

FANC update on Belgium nuclear reactor cracks

Doel 3/Tihange 2: new update After a large number of flaw indications was discovered in the walls of the reactor pressure vessels (RPVs) of Doel 3 and Tihange 2 during a scheduled maintenance in the summer of 2012, the Belgian nuclear safety authorities (FANC and Bel V) decided that Electrabel had to submit a Safety Case to justify the restart of both reactors. Electrabel had to demonstrate specifically and convincingly in its Safety Case that the flaw indications in the walls of the RPVs do not compromise its structural integrity….

In carrying out tests related to theme 2 during the spring of 2014, a fracture toughness test revealed unexpected results, which suggested that the mechanical properties of the material were more strongly influenced by radiation than experts had expected. As a precaution both reactors were immediately shut down again. Electrabel launched a test campaign to find an explanation for the unexpected test results. …

Electrabel provides the FANC and Bel V with results of ongoing tests and analyses on a regular basis. The Belgian security authorities need time to look into this new information and will continue their analysis during the first months of 2015. …

In April 2015, the FANC will organize a new meeting of the international panel of experts to obtain their advice on the results of the new material tests and on the new data provided by Electrabel.

http://www.fanc.be/nl/news/doel-3/tihange-2-new-update/745.aspx  (Update published 13/2/15)

February 23, 2015 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | EUROPE, safety