Post Fukushima safety assessment of FBTR - salient observations, strategies and retrofits

Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR) is India's first liquid metal cooled fast reactor (LMFBR). FBTR uses mixed carbide of U and Pu as driver fuel and rated for a nominal power of 40 MWt. Heat transport system comprises two sodium coolant loops with pumps and intermediate heat exchangers (IHX). A turbo alternator with associated steam plant for generating about 13 MW electrical power. The main issues of safety assessment were the effects and implications of the revised flood level, including the effect of extended station black out on reactor safety. Summary of review, recommendations and action plan for ensuring safe shutdown followed by DHR and containment integrity is given in this paper. (author)