Evaluation of events involving unplanned boron dilutions in nuclear power plants

Journal Article · · Nucl. Saf.; (United States)

OSTI ID:5870247

Hagen, E W

This article reviews and evaluates events concerned with the inadvertent dilution of boron concentrations to the reactor coolant system of pressurized-water-cooled thermal reactors in commercial service. The safety concern is the unplanned addition of reactivity. Results from information obtained were collated and analyzed for significance and impact on power plant safety performance. Several operating experience events are reviewed. This study revealed no boron dilution incidents resulting in a reactivity excursion or transient that scrammed a unit, nor was a reactor protection system challenged by any of the events. The most common cause for unplanned boron dilutions was human error, of which one was a common-mode/common-cause failure.

• OSTI ID: 5870247
• Journal Information: Nucl. Saf.; (United States), Journal Name: Nucl. Saf.; (United States) Vol. 24:3; ISSN NUSAA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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