Can Westinghouse 3-loop PWRs Survive a Total Blackout?

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In summary, the plant would be able to survive a blackout for a short period of time, but would need additional feedwater sources in the event of a total grid failure.
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rmattila
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Would anybody happen to have at hand the water volume of the secondary side of Westinghouse 3 loop PWR steam generators?

Regarding the loss of external grid incident at North Anna, it would be nice to have a rough estimate of how long the plants could survive a total blackout by boiling off water from the SG:s.
 
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rmattila said:
Would anybody happen to have at hand the water volume of the secondary side of Westinghouse 3 loop PWR steam generators?

Regarding the loss of external grid incident at North Anna, it would be nice to have a rough estimate of how long the plants could survive a total blackout by boiling off water from the SG:s.
Earthquake was about 8-9 miles from the plant, although some info indicates 1 mile. They lost off-site power and the EDGs started up. Both units shutdown.

I'm sure they'll have an interesting Event Report out soon.
 
  • #3
rmattila said:
Would anybody happen to have at hand the water volume of the secondary side of Westinghouse 3 loop PWR steam generators?

Regarding the loss of external grid incident at North Anna, it would be nice to have a rough estimate of how long the plants could survive a total blackout by boiling off water from the SG:s.

With a loss of feedwater flow, PWR steam generators boil dry in minutes.

North Anna has a terry turbine (steam-powered pump) to provide feedwater flow in the case of loss of total electrical power failure, as well as a station blackout diesel (in addition to the regular backup diesels).
 
  • #4
If the steam generators are similar to Ringhals 4, which is a 935 MWe Westinghouse 3-loop PWR, their secondary side inventory would appear to be some 40 m3 or 30 t per SG, which would 1 hour after scram be enough for approximately 1.5 h, if I got the figures correct.

However, the existence of a steam driven auxiliary pump and an SBO diesel make the situation appear quite non-problematic.
 
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  • #5


I am unable to provide specific information or data on the water volume of the secondary side of Westinghouse 3-loop PWR steam generators. This information is proprietary and would need to be obtained from the manufacturer or a licensed operator. Additionally, the length of time a plant could survive a total blackout by boiling off water from the steam generators would depend on many factors, including the specific design and operating conditions of the plant. It is important for power plants to have contingency plans and backup systems in place to prevent such incidents from occurring and to ensure the safe operation of the plant.
 

FAQ: Can Westinghouse 3-loop PWRs Survive a Total Blackout?

What is a Westinghouse 3-loop PWR?

A Westinghouse 3-loop PWR is a type of pressurized water reactor used in nuclear power plants. It is designed and manufactured by the Westinghouse Electric Company and is one of the most common types of PWRs in operation today.

How does a Westinghouse 3-loop PWR work?

In a Westinghouse 3-loop PWR, pressurized water is used as a coolant and is heated by nuclear fuel to produce steam. This steam then turns a turbine to generate electricity. The three loops refer to the primary coolant loop, secondary coolant loop, and steam turbine loop.

What are the advantages of a Westinghouse 3-loop PWR?

One major advantage of a Westinghouse 3-loop PWR is its high efficiency and reliability. It also has a strong safety record and has been in operation for over 50 years. Additionally, its design allows for flexible power output, making it suitable for a variety of electricity demand levels.

What are the potential risks or challenges associated with Westinghouse 3-loop PWRs?

Some potential risks or challenges include the possibility of nuclear accidents or meltdowns, as well as the proper disposal of nuclear waste. The use of nuclear energy also raises concerns about the potential for nuclear proliferation and the environmental impact of nuclear power plants.

What is the future of Westinghouse 3-loop PWRs?

The use of Westinghouse 3-loop PWRs is expected to continue in the future as they are a well-established and proven technology. However, there is also ongoing research and development in the nuclear energy field to improve safety, efficiency, and waste management, which may lead to advancements or changes in the design of PWRs in the future.

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