Test operation experiences of Genkai Nuclear Power Station

Genkai nuclear power station began commercial operation on October 15, 1975. The reactor is that of PWR type, and generates 559 MW electrical output. During the trial operation to that day, the following items have been managed or controlled: limitation of output changing rate, maintenance of axial imbalance within the desired value, control rod application, output suppression at the initial burn-up rate, reference value of water quality control, countermeasure against sea water leakage, job management commodity control, imported goods control, and electronic parts control. The major improvements of installations carried out from the experience during trial operation or from the new information of preceding plants are as follows: automation works for the single unit operation of a condenser, addition of axial imbalance-monitoring function to the computer, automatic change-over of air extractor vent system and others, increase of monitoring TV sockets and cameras, and installation of sodium-monitoring instruments in the condensate line. The total inspections of the facilities were widely carried out to remove anxiety for further operation at the chance of shut down on June 10, 1975 due to the tube leakage in A steam generator. (Wakatsuki, Y.)