Framatome has completed Zero Power Physics Testing (ZPPT) for Florida Power and Light Company’s Turkey Point unit 4, cycle 19. This marks the 100th testing sequence for Framatome using its Reactivity Measurement and Analysis System (RMAS). The sequence was completed in five hours and 35 minutes, from initial criticality to completion of rod worth, and it was the fifth consecutive startup at the station with a test duration near six hours.
ZPPT has also been completed at Beaver Valley. Following initial criticality and adjusting rod position with boron concentrate, this testing sequence was also completed in less than six hours.
Last July, ZPPT was completed at Angra (Brazil) in five hours and 25 minutes using RMAS with a sequence that used multiple bank dilution for rod worth. All three successive ZPPT testing sequences were completed in less than six hours.
According to Richard Schemmel, an consultative engineer at Framatome ANP: “Prior to using RMAS for ZPPT, 14 to 24 hours were typically required for the same testing. With RMAS experience and improved plant testing methods, we’re confident that future testing will be completed in five or fewer hours on a consistent basis.” Framatome ANP is divided into four business units: Projects and Engineering, Nuclear Services, Nuclear Fuel and Mechanical Equipment.
