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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.
Brett J. Menaker, Russell E. Allen, Harry E. Painter
Nuclear Technology | Volume 91 | Number 1 | July 1990 | Pages 75-80
Technical Paper | Safety of Next Generation Power Reactor / Nuclear Safety | doi.org/10.13182/NT90-A34442
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Containment cooling using natural convection and radiation is a key passive safety feature studied for a 600-MW(electric) advanced small pressurized water reactor. A free-standing cylindrical steel containment vessel is surrounded by a reinforced concrete shield building configured as a chimney. Various methods to enhance natural-convection cooling were evaluated. The evaluation and selection process considered effectiveness, constructibility and effect on schedule, cost, degree of passivity, inspection and maintenance requirements, operational problems, and simplicity. As a result of these evaluations, a combination of fins and convection from the dome in addition to the cylinder is selected.