Electromagnetic Compatibility in Nuclear Power Plants
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) has long been a key element of qualification for mission critical instrumentation and control (I&C) systems used by the U.S. military. The potential for disruption of safety-related I&C systems by electromagnetic interference (EMI), radio-frequency interference (RFI), or power surges is also an issue of concern for the nuclear industry. Experimental investigations of the potential vulnerability of advanced safety systems to EMI/RFI, coupled with studies of reported events at nuclear power plants (NPPs) that are attributed to EMI/RFI, confirm the safety significance of EMC for both analog and digital technology. As a result, Oak Ridge National Laboratory has been engaged in the development of the technical basis for guidance that addresses EMC for safety-related I&C systems in NPPs. This research has involved the identification of engineering practices to minimize the potential impact of EMI/RFI and power surges and an evaluation of the ambient electromagnetic environment at NPPs to tailor those practices for use by the nuclear industry. Recommendations for EMC guidance have been derived from these research findings and are summarized in this paper.
- Research Organization:
- Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research, NRC
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC05-96OR22464
- OSTI ID:
- 7434
- Report Number(s):
- ORNL/CP-103297; 41 W1 95 1L 1; ON: DE00007434
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Global '99, International Conference of Future Nuclear Systems, Jackson, WY, August 29-September 3, 1999
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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