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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.
Li Wu, Jian Xiao, Hong Chen, Jia Li, Songzhi Jiang, Tongmin Wang
Nuclear Technology | Volume 188 | Number 1 | October 2014 | Pages 78-82
Technical Paper | Thermal Hydraulics | doi.org/10.13182/NT13-127
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Main steam isolation valves are used in nuclear steam supply systems. Their sole function is to close, in the improbable event of a rupture in the steam piping. Computational analysis of the valve enables the study of system responses that are otherwise difficult to obtain. In this paper, transient behavior during the valve closing was simulated by static analysis with five typical runs of valve openings. One-way fluid-structure coupling simulations were conducted to investigate the flow patterns and to estimate the deformation and stress of the valve. Results show that the main pressure drop of flow occurs in the throat path. All the deformation and stress of the valve are within allowed limits to ensure safety.