Safety requirements for steam turbines in nuclear power plants

To prevent radioactive matter being released from nuclear power plants in the event of disturbances, all the components must meet the highest safety requirements. This applies also to the steam turbines, which differ from machines for conventional power plants with regard to their dimensions, material behaviour and steam properties. As set out in the article, systems and components must satisfy strict quality requirements in order to conform to the high safety standard. In addition proof must be submitted of the resistance of the turbine rotor to bursting, so that the reactor is in no way endangered even in the hypothetical case of failure of the multiple safety equipment. The turbine must be able, further, to withstand the effects of earthquakes without putting the safety of the plant at risk, and be designed in accordance with fire safety regulations. (Auth.)