Use of engineering design models to aid construction of nuclear power plants

The necessity of preplanning for efficient construction of nuclear power plants has increased greatly with the continuing regulatory refinements and escalating capital requirements. Engineering design models aid in the effort to ensure optimal expenditure of construction capital and manpower. Unlike many models which are used as conceptual tools and displays, the engineering design model is an exact comprehensive miniature of the completed power plant that is used to develop and control the design. Design relationships are more easily visualized when portrayed in three dimensions on the model. Its appropriate use facilitates designing for constructability and improving the quality of the communication between engineer and constructor