Nuclear Power Plant Control Challenges

One of the biggest challenges faced by the nuclear power industry is obsolescence of C&I equipment. A lot of equipment used in many of the nuclear power stations has been designed as one-of-a-kind and replacement of such control systems is a real challenge. Engineering Division at British Energy´s HQ in Gloucester is in the process of replacing one such system at the Hinkley Point B Power Station supported by SIEMENS PG. The first part presents an example of a control system replacement project of a boiler feed control system, the half unit valve control system. It highlights typical challenges faced by British Energy from producing specification to commissioning. The second part is presentation by SIEMENS PG, which focuses on SIEMENS experience of working with British Energy on this particular project and the choice of the particular solution offered to British Energy.