Stretch-out-operation in 1985/86 in the Grohnde nuclear power plant

If the situation arises that the end of the burnup cycle is reached at a time when on-load refueling would be inconvenient, the power plant can be operated in stretch-out mode, with reduced output. Stretch-out operation allows inspection shutdowns to be deferred up to a period of some months in order to achieve an optimum adjustment in time between several power plants. This type of operation is of advantage also with regard to fuel cycle costs, and yields interesting information on capacity utilization of nuclear power stations. Extension of burnup cycles is an attractive idea for all LWR-type reactors. In the Grohnde nuclear power station, the inspection shutdown in 1986 could be postponed for more than two months, and the average burnup in the core was increased by almost 2000 MWd/t. Stretch-out operation is planned for 1987, too, with the maximum possible turbine capacity. (orig./GL)