I&C modernization for VVER reactors

The I&C (instrumentation and control) modernization program for the Temelin VVER 1000 plants illustrates the advantages of a modern digital distributed processing architecture in providing a flexible modular approach incorporating the latest I&C technology available in the nuclear industry. Beginning with a comprehensive safety analysis and functional design consistent with Western practice, the modernization goes beyond simply meeting Western standards of safety. Incorporation of extensive self-diagnostic capability, the use of modern high-speed data communications, and the exploitation of powerful workstations in a distributed processing environment all bring advantages in installation, operation, and maintenance over conventional system designs. For the future, the modernization provides the basis for easy adoption of new improved sensors, faster, more powerful processors, or decision support packages such as expert systems for equipment and system performance monitoring and diagnosis, predictive maintenance planning, or total plant operations optimization