Uprating of CANDU Reactors - A Feasibility Study

Abstract

A feasibility study was undertaken to determine if Pickering B reactors could be uprate to provide extra power without any major equipment modifications or replacements. The power uprating for the study phase has been defined as 103% of the normal full power output achieved by changing to operating flux in the reactor the power distribution towards the core periphery is both flattened and increased, which mainly affects the thermal conditions in the reactor. The paper provides an overview of the. key systems and components reviewed for the uprating parameters. Although the main focus of this study was to qualify the existing design and equipment for the uprated power conditions (103% of full power), the program did make- in-depth assessment of the important safety considerations for jurisdictional approval. The results of the study phase indicate that the power uprating of the Pickering B reactors to 103% power is feasible without any major design changes to the key-systems and components. It is also shown that there are no safety related impediments to uprating, and that this uprating can be accomplished with the present safety system equipment. The study does indicate the need for same additional assessment for a few highly stressed components before this program is implemented.