CCI Delivers Superior Technology Solutions For Nuclear Customers

 To maintain adequate long-term reactor core cooling, a major nuclear power facility, which is owned and operated by a North Carolina-based utility,contracted CCI in April of 2005 to design, fabricate, test and install advanced ECCS Sump Screens at their three unit PWR Seneca, SC site. This action was taken to mitigate concerns for strainer blockage and resultant adverse effect on head loss.

In response to the Generic Letter (NRC 2004-02), implementation of advanced strainers was to be complete for all three units by December 2007. After lengthy evaluation of various strainer designs, CCI’s “Pocket Cassette” technology was selected for its superior suction surface area to space consumption ratio, flexible design features for accommodating obstructions and ease of installation. From release of order to completion of the first Unit, CCI performed design work, extensive validation flow testing, fabrication and installation within a short six month period.

CCI Engineering in Winterthur, Switzerland developed a unique configuration to optimize the available sump space by providing for the maximum achievable screen surface area. The design requirements included a maximum head loss of 0.1 feet across the strainer following postulated build-up of insulation debris on the strainer face. CCI’s exclusive “Pocket Cassette” design satisfied this challenging requirement. CCI followed the delivery of new Strainers by providing on-site Project Management and Technical Oversight to assure proper installation and adherence to a tight schedule. Shaw’s Stone & Webster provided plant modification engineering and downstream effects analysis in close support of the aggressive schedule. Regulator review and comments for CCI’s test procedures and hardware installation have been positive.

CCI has installed advanced Pocket Cassette Strainers in commercial nuclear power plants around the world. Since this contract award, thirteen additional U.S. nuclear units have specified CCI Strainers and Services to date for resolution of GL 2004-02. CCI remains committed to the success of commercial nuclear power and providing innovative solutions for improved performance and response for emerging issues.

Published in SOLUTIONS Summer 2006