Superphenix team prepare to analyze sodium leak and seek decision on repairs

Work is well under way to cope with the leak of sodium coolant in the fuel storage drum at the Superphenix FBR plant at Creys-Malville. EDF says the leak has no consequences for safety or environment. The reactor can go on operating. Unloading of the assemblies from the drum has already begun. Afterwards, the 700 tonnes of sodium will be removed from the drum in an operation taking only a few days. Then the crack will be analyzed and it will be decided if the drum can be repaired or has to be replaced. Parallel to unloading the dummy fuel assemblies, and subject to approval by the safety authorities, the space between the damaged storage and the outer safety drum will be emptied of leaked sodium