Effects of nuclear electromagnetic pulse (EMP) on nuclear power plants
The electromagnetic pulse (EMP) from a high-altitude nuclear detonation consists of a transient pulse of high intensity electromagnetic fields. These intense fields 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 report predicts the probable effects of the EMP transients that could be induced in critical circuits of safety-related systems. It was found that the most likely consequence of EMP for nuclear plants is an unscheduled shutdown. EMP could prolong the shutdown period by the unnecessary actuation of certain safety systems. 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. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-26
- OSTI ID:
- 7301891
- Report Number(s):
- ORNL-5029; TRN: 77-017422
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
ELECTROMAGNETIC PULSES
NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS
ATMOSPHERIC EXPLOSIONS
ELECTRIC CABLES
INDUCTION
NUCLEAR EXPLOSIONS
REACTOR PROTECTION SYSTEMS
TRANSIENTS
CABLES
CONDUCTOR DEVICES
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION
EQUIPMENT
EXPLOSIONS
NUCLEAR FACILITIES
POWER PLANTS
RADIATIONS
THERMAL POWER PLANTS
220900* - Nuclear Reactor Technology- Reactor Safety