A thermal performance monitoring system for PWR nuclear power plants

In order to improve heat rate and availability on its PWR nuclear power plants, Electricite de France is developing a performance monitoring system to evaluate operational performance variations, localize faulty components or systems and help maintenance program. An approach is proposed, based on a heat balance model and feedback experience of acceptance test. This note describes a demonstration monitoring system that has been used to validate the approach. It has been tested at Flamanville Plant (PWR 1300 MW). This demonstration system is a mock-up of a future industrial system. Its architecture is described even though it may be different from the future industrial one. (author). 5 figs., 1 tab