SPND Operating Experience at Oconee Nuclear Station

This paper presents a comparative performance summary of the incore self-powered neutron detectors (SPND´s) used at Oconee through September, 1978. Data reported includes SPND replacement costs, detector failure records, background signal variations, and detector insulation current leakage resistances. The effects of SPND performance upon core power distribution measurements with the plant computer are discussed. Problems associated with concurrent use of SPND´s of different designs and irradiation times are addressed. The information presented should be useful to designers and users for selection and deployment of SPND´s.