EMP and nuclear plant safety

Journal Article · Sat Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1977 · Nucl. Saf.; (United States)

OSTI ID:5356098

Barnes, P R

The electromagnetic pulse (EMP) from a high-altitude nuclear detonation consists of a transient pulse of high-intensity electromagnetic fields that induce current and voltage transients in electrical conductors. Although most nuclear power-plant cables are not directly exposed to these fields, the attenuated EMP fields that propagate into the plant will couple some EMP energy to these cables. The article attempts to predict the probable effects of the EMP transients that could be induced in critical circuits of safety-related systems. It is concluded that the most likely consequence of EMP for nuclear plants is an unscheduled shutdown. In general, EMP could be a nuisance to nuclear power plants, but it is not considered a serious threat to plant safety.

• Research Organization: Oak Ridge National Lab., TN
• OSTI ID: 5356098
• Journal Information: Nucl. Saf.; (United States), Journal Name: Nucl. Saf.; (United States) Vol. 18:3; ISSN NUSAA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS
220400 -- Nuclear Reactor Technology-- Control Systems
220900* -- Nuclear Reactor Technology-- Reactor Safety
CABLES
CONDUCTOR DEVICES
CONTROL SYSTEMS
ELECTRIC CABLES
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
ELECTROMAGNETIC PULSES
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION
EQUIPMENT
EXPLOSIONS
NUCLEAR EXPLOSIONS
NUCLEAR FACILITIES
NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS
POWER PLANTS
RADIATIONS
REACTOR CONTROL SYSTEMS
THERMAL POWER PLANTS
TRANSIENTS