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The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
Lance J. Agee
Nuclear Technology | Volume 128 | Number 2 | November 1999 | Pages 131-138
Technical Paper | RETRAN | doi.org/10.13182/NT99-A3020
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
An overview is presented of the important RETRAN related events that have occurred since the previous International RETRAN Conference, which was held in October 1995. First, an overview is given of the general state of the industry, focusing on problems with the implementation of new reactor fuels and the formation at the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) of the Robust Fuel Program. Second, the conclusion from the EPRI-sponsored design review of RETRAN-3D is given, as well as the status of RETRAN related licensing submittals to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the current status of the RETRAN-3D licensing submittal. Third, GPU Nuclear Corporation's use of RETRAN-3D and a cross-comparison of RETRAN-02 licensing analyses for all Three Mile Island Chapter 14 (Chapter 15 for most plants) events are summarized. Fourth, a vision of the future is outlined, which includes the evolving integration of EPRI codes into interactive suites similar to CPM-3, CORETRAN, and RETRAN-3D. Also outlined are the evolution of RETRAN for balance-of-plant analysis, supporting CHECWORKS leak applications, and the use of the thermal-hydraulic engine in operator training simulators.