Computer safety display goes East to RBMKs

The Chernobyl accident in 1986 focused the world's attention on the safety of Soviet-designed nuclear power plants, particularly the RBMK reactors. Programs in numerous countries have been aimed at safety improvement of the Soviet-designed reactors. The US Dep. of Energy (DOE), acting through Pacific Northwest National Laboratories is sponsoring programs vital for the RBMK safe operations. One of their most important and largest programs is the design and installation of a Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) for the Soviet-designed RBMK nuclear power plants. Westinghouse Electric Corp. was selected as the principal designer for this program. The program is directed at enhancing the capability of RBMK plant operators to evaluate the safety status of the plant. The design will address internationally accepted codes, standards and methodology. (author) 1 fig., 11 refs