Improved control complex with a new digital control system for NPPs

In the mid-1970s, Hitachi Ltd began the development of a new generation of control and instrumentation (C and I) systems for use in BWR power plants, on the basis of the realization that the capability of microprocessor/computer technology as applied to the C and I systems could greatly improve their performance. For plant operation and management, Hitachi developed the Nuclear Power Plant Control Complex with Advanced Man-Machine Interfaces-80, NUCAMM-80, which has been operating successfully in several plants. We are developing a further improved control complex system for the next generation of NPPs on the basis of operating experience and new optical and electronics technology. The paper describes the experience and development of the BWR control complex system and focuses on the hardware system for the man-machine interface system and the digital network system in the latest commercial plant. (author). 4 refs, 6 figs, 4 tabs