Michael Louis Nusbaum

US Patent:

40000370, Dec 28, 1976

Filed:

Nov 28, 1973

Appl. No.:

5/419746

Inventors:

Michael S. Nusbaum - Placentia CA
Vincent P. Buscemi - Pittsburgh PA
George J. Silvestri - Morton PA

Assignee:

Westinghouse Electric Corporation - Pittsburgh PA

International Classification:

G21C 1700

US Classification:

176 19R

Abstract:

A control system for a pressurized water reactor power plant. The control system comprises temperature sensing means having flow interruption means connected thereto. The temperature sensing means monitors the temperature levels within the reactor element and sends a predetermined signal to the flow interruption means upon a predetermined change in reactor temperature. The flow interruption means is disposed within an associated steam turbine loop including a steam generator element which transforms secondary water into steam to act as motive fluid within the turbine loop. The flow interruption means initiate one or more flow interruption activities which either produce an increased temperature differential between the secondary water and the steam produced therefrom or increase the rate of flow of steam within the associated steam turbine loop. Utilization of the control system permits extensive operation of the reactor element past the end of the normal fuel cycle life. In addition, the control system provides improved reactor load follow capability.