Electric Power Research Institute. Water Chemistry. Program Overview

Transcription

1 Water Chemistry Program Description Program Overview Water chemistry conditions at nuclear power plants can impact corrosion rates, fuel performance, and radiation management. In light of increasing demands on chemistry staff and reductions in the number of staff, nuclear power plants are challenged to maintain effective water chemistry control. Improved water chemistry can reduce the frequency of transient fault conditions and overall impurity concentrations. However, continued improvements are needed to optimize water chemistry and balance the resulting impacts and improvements on system materials corrosion, fuel performance, and radiation fields. The Water Chemistry Program develops and updates water chemistry guidelines for nuclear reactors based on industry research and plant experience. The program also develops water chemistry optimization tools to mitigate corrosion, achieve and maintain design fuel performance standards, and minimize plant radiation fields. Research Value The Water Chemistry Program develops technical guidance that can be incorporated into the day-to-day duties of nuclear plant chemists. Research results help nuclear plants create strategic water chemistry plans for maximizing plant availability and cost efficiency in a manner consistent with safety and regulatory requirements. Water Chemistry Program members gain access to the following: Cost-effective chemistry optimization tools and techniques to improve plant availability and safety. New chemistry applications through first-of-a-kind technology demonstrations. For example, field demonstration of a polyacrylic acid dispersant showed a 50% reduction in corrosion product fouling, increasing steam generator availability. Software-enabled improvements in chemistry control, diagnostic capabilities, and staff productivity. Enhanced technology transfer through plant-specific collaborations. On-site assessment support to benchmark plant chemistry controls and identify opportunities to optimize chemistry protocols. The Water Chemistry Program combines basic and applied research with industry operating experience to develop guidance and technologies tailored to the needs of the nuclear power industry. The Program provides a comprehensive suite of water chemistry tools, including guidelines, new operating and monitoring technologies, chemistry control and assessment software, user groups, and on-site assessments. Conduct research to improve the understanding of water chemistry impacts on nuclear plant performance and related impacts on equipment and systems. Develop scientifically and technically based water chemistry guidelines to minimize operational risks to plant materials, maintain design fuel performance standards, and mitigate plant radiation fields. Conduct first-of-a-kind technology demonstrations targeting improved water chemistry control. Design and deploy software tools that can accurately and cost-effectively monitor and assess water chemistry. Water Chemistry - Program p. 1

2 Accomplishments Electric Power Research Institute's (EPRI s) Water Chemistry Program supports nuclear power industry efforts to improve water chemistry control and minimize water chemistry impacts on other plant systems and components. Water chemistry research provides members with the guidance and technologies to improve operational flexibility, reduce operations and maintenance costs, reduce dose, and reduce material degradation risks. Completed recent updates to water chemistry guidelines: Pressurized Water Reactor Primary Water Chemistry Guidelines (2007), Boiling Water Reactor Water Chemistry Guidelines (2008), and Pressurized Water Reactor Secondary Water Chemistry Guidelines (2009). Conducted first-of-a-kind plant demonstrations of dispersant application to mitigate steam generator fouling and of zinc injection to mitigate stress corrosion cracking and reduce radiation fields. Improved the scope, functionality, and technical content of ChemWorks and SMART ChemWorks software tools to optimize water chemistry. Maintained close collaboration with nuclear plant personnel through user groups to drive continuous water chemistry improvements. Current Year Activities Water Chemistry Program R&D for 2010 will focus on technology developments and assessments to continually improve guidance and tools for optimized chemistry control. Specific efforts will include the following: Review all three water chemistry guidelines (boiling water reactor, as well as primary and secondary pressurized water reactor guidelines) to evaluate gaps related to industry initiatives (Nuclear Energy Institute and 03-08). Complete a two-year assessment to better understand and mitigate extended activity releases during pressurized water reactor shutdowns. Define chemistry guidance for new plants in collaboration with EPRI s Advanced Nuclear Technology program. Develop boiling water and pressurized water reactor monitoring and assessment tools to benchmark the industry and evaluate chemistry improvement opportunities. Begin revision of the condensate polishing guidelines for boiling water and pressurized water reactors. Coordinate field implementation of a pressurized water reactor elevated hydrogen program at a lead plant. Continue software enhancements to ChemWorks and SMART ChemWorks. Estimated 2010 Program Funding $3.9 million Program Manager Keith Fruzzetti, , kfruzzet@epri.com Water Chemistry - Program p. 2

3 Summary of Projects Project Number Project Title Description P P P g P n SMART ChemWORKS Development Technology Demonstrations PWR Dispersant Application Support BWR Feedwater Iron Optimization Support Continued development of Smart ChemWorks application to incorporate industry operating experience and apply research and technology advances. Development and application of new technology supporting longrange operational goals focused on equipment reliability. Plant-specific support for successful dispersant application, which can reduce steam generator fouling by as much as 50% based on plant trials. This project supports efforts to improve the performance assessment accuracy of individual condensate filtration/demineralizer vessels for iron optimization. Support at a given plant includes the following: Temporary corrosion product sampler setup Baseline evaluation of current sampling/analysis program Consultation with station personnel for execution of site-specific sampling program Site-specific sampling program and sample analysis (lab analysis generally performed on-site by site personnel) Compilation and evaluation of results Site-specific recommendations regarding septa, precoated material and operating conditions to achieve feedwater iron control goals (electronic report included) P P a Chemistry User Groups and Specific Applications BWR Condensate Filter Users Group The Smart ChemWorks, ChemWorks, and Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) Zinc User Groups provide a communication forum for users to share lessons learned and identify functional improvements that would expand the applicability of the software tools at nuclear power plants. Participation in the BWR Condensate Filter User Group includes participation in an annual conference, electronic reports, newsletters, and industry alerts. Current issues addressed within the User Group include the following: Pleated septa experience and septa quality control Septa and precoated materials optimization Use of specialty resins for cobalt removal Equipment upgrades and related issues and resolutions Optimization of iron and soluble species removal Control of sulfate releases due to pleated septa age and attachment hardware failure Minimization of radwaste generation P b ChemWorksTM Users Group The ChemWorks Users Group continues to grow and expand participation in the US and international communities. Significant improvements to the applications were based on utility feedback and participation in the Users Group. Water Chemistry - Program p. 3

4 Project Number Project Title Description P c P d P e P r P t PWR Primary Zinc Application Users Group SMART ChemWORKS Users Group - Maintenance and Support SMART ChemWorks Users Group-New Installation PWR Primary and Secondary Resins and Filters Users Group BWR Reactor Water Cleanup Users Group The PWR Primary Zinc Application User Group provides members access to the following: An annual electronic newsletter updating members on the industry operating experiences and upcoming activities. An annual meeting to update members and share experiences. A common database for users to update based on cycle performance in radiation exposure and zinc injection. There are currently 24 SMART ChemWorks users including 2 from the BWR fleet. The project requires the data transfer tool to be installed on-site and application setup on the EPRI servers. After setup is complete, plant personnel will have access to the SMART ChemWorks technology and application of EPRI technologies through a web interface. Additional site specific customizations are required over the first 3 months as the model is developed and adjusted based on site specific information. Installation of SMART ChemWorks requires a coordinated effort between the EPRI engineers and plant team members. A one time on-site meeting is required between team members to establish project scope and time lines to ensure a successful implementation plan. The PWR Primary and Secondary Resins and Filters User Group provides a forum for collecting industry best practices that can be utilized by member utilities to optimize operations with regard to demineralizer and filter performance. The RWCU User Group shares experiences and drives excellence in performance of water purification operations and systems. RWCU systems at BWRs include both filtration systems and deep bed demineralizers. A variety of septa types, precoated materials, bead resins, vessel designs, backwash, and precoating methods and application challenges across the fleet are significant. Plant chemists and RWCU system managers are key contributors and beneficiaries of this group. Issues currently being addressed by this group include the following: Removal efficiency maximization of Co-60 and other isotopes during operation and outages Precoating process optimization Backwash process performance Resin and precoating material selection Use of specialty bead and powdered resins for cobalt removal Septa performance and design Equipment upgrades, issues, and resolution Optimization of iron and soluble species removal Radwaste generation minimization RWCU system temperature control issues Planning for system maintenance (outage vs. online) Water Chemistry - Program p. 4

5 Project Number Project Title Description P v BWR Zinc Users Group Zinc injection has become a key technology for minimizing drywell dose rates under the highly reducing chemistry conditions established by Moderate-HWC (hydrogen water chemistry), NMCA (noble metals chemical application) and OLNC (Online NobleChemTM). While more zinc can be better for dose control, chemistry guidelines limit feedwater zinc concentrations to control the buildup of tenacious crud on the fuel cladding. The BWR Zinc User Group enables plants to accomplish the following: Share plant experiences and lessons learned with zinc application Review the BWR chemistry monitoring database for trends and updates Monitor zinc performance results based on available chemistry, radiation field, and fuel surveillance data Communicate issues and improvement plans for active and passive zinc injection systems Identify needed research involving zinc addition P Water Chemistry Guide EPRI can provide expert support to optimize plant chemistry programs. To date, EPRI has assisted a number of utilities in the evaluation of cycle and shutdown chemistry programs, Strategic Plan reviews focused on implementation of new water chemistry guidelines, and the resolution of chemistry-related issues associated with these plans and programs. P h P i P j P k Strategic Water Chemistry Plan Review Chemistry & Materials Optimization Program PWR Secondary Cycle ph Optimization PWR Cycle Chemistry Evaluations EPRI will provide a detailed comprehensive review of the primary and secondary optimization plans focused on meeting the EPRI guidelines while optimizing site specific concerns. The Chemistry and Materials Optimization Program provides plant operators with an assessment tool that can be administered by EPRI or other trained individuals. The raw data results are then evaluated using Spider software to identify cross-cutting issues and administrative or managerial weaknesses. To assist utilities with minimizing corrosion in the secondary cycle, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has developed a process to aid in evaluating plant ph optimization programs. EPRI experts help plant managers evaluate the status of their corrosion-product transport and local phs throughout the secondary cycle. EPRI recommends an optimum amine selection and operation by performing the following evaluations: A mass balance of corrosion products around the secondary cycle in order to determine the corrosion source Calculation of amine concentrations and local ph values at major locations in the secondary cycle using the EPRI Plant Chemistry Simulator Calculation of feedwater iron concentrations Estimation of polisher run length as a function of feedwater amine concentrations Economic analysis comparing the use of different potential amines This project performs a complete primary and secondary chemistry review of the key systems related to the long term operation and reliability of the plant. The evaluation reviews startup, operational, and shutdown chemistry and long term trends. Water Chemistry - Program p. 5

6 Project Number Project Title Description P p P q P s P u Implementing EPRI PWR Chemistry Guidelines Primary-to-Secondary Leakage Program Assistance BWR Cycle Chemistry Evaluation BWR Startup Hydrogen Injection Evaluation On-site training addressing the following, as a minimum related to the EPRI Guideline Review process, EPRI Guideline hierarchy within industry documentation related to NEI, EPRI, and station procedures, EPRI Strategic Plan development expectations to meet the intent of NEI and NEI A detailed review of the site primary-to-secondary leak rate program to ensure compliance with the EPRI guidelines and the site has adequate monitoring and evaluation of data for plant operators. This project will assist plant operators in evaluating their cycle chemistry and developing a roadmap for chemistry improvements by performing the following: Reviewing the technical basis for the site chemistry trending program using Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) guidelines and other industry standards Reviewing the effectiveness and completeness of chemistryrelated corrective actions taken during previous cycles Evaluating and trending chemistry results using EPRI-developed tools to document behaviors Recommending site chemistry program improvements based on trends and observations Conducting on-site walkdowns (as needed) of sample systems to review effectiveness and protocols using established selfassessment principles Assessing laboratory operations with respect to communication, equipment operation and maintenance activities, training, and implementation of industry lessons learned This project will assist plant operators in identifying preferred locations for early hydrogen injection during BWR startup as well as support initial planning efforts for possible plant modifications to accommodate the injection process. To support these efforts, this evaluation project will provide support in the following manner: Review plant drawings and documents for injection locations Perform a plant walkdown to confirm preferred locations Identify plant modifications required for injection tie-ins and services Determine space availability should hydrogen gas cylinders be utilized Document the results of the evaluation and provide plant-specific recommendations P Chemistry Guidelines Provides up-to-date guidelines, develops leading technologies, and performs critical assessments in support of improved water chemistry tools and guidance for safe, reliable, and optimized water chemistry operation. P First-of-a-kind Technology Demonstrations This project implements new chemistry technologies at a plant site under controlled and monitored conditions and develops initial application guidance for optimized application. P Software Development In support of plant chemists, ChemWorks codes provide a consistent and reliable means for assessing chemistries that could impact component/asset management strategies. Water Chemistry - Program p. 6

7 SMART ChemWORKS Development (052420) Increasing demands on chemistry staff, coupled with reductions in the number of staff, have heightened efforts to optimize staff productivity. SMART ChemWorks is a real-time, online chemistry monitoring and advisory system that provides station chemists with improved monitoring, diagnostic, and alerting capabilities. However, continued development of the tool is required to respond to the evolving needs of station chemists and expand the basic functionality of data management systems related to water chemistry programs. This project encompasses improvement and further development of SMART ChemWorks functionality. Development includes web page upgrades, /pager alerts with increased functionality, addition of new technical analysis methods, faster run-times, and ability to handle even greater volumes of data. In addition, the project will pursue software upgrades that enable ChemWorks to support the boiling water reactor (BWR) fleet (for example, through enhanced fuel performance calculations performance). Improves chemistry application related to control and diagnostic capabilities while optimizing staff productivity Rapid data analysis capability related to application of Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) technology and science that adopts the Boiling Water Reactor Vessel and Internals Application (BWRVIA) and pressurized water reactor (PWR) / BWR fuel performance analyses Improvements are made directly to the SMART ChemWorks software by EPRI. Added functionality is automatically implemented for all SMART ChemWorks users Products Continued SMART ChemWorks Development: Continued development of SMART ChemWorks as agreed to with project funders 12/31/10 Resource Technology Demonstrations (052421) New chemistry-related technologies may not be readily implemented in the field, requiring additional support or guidance. This project supports application and performance evaluation of advanced chemistry technologies through plant demonstrations. This project involves first-of-a-kind demonstration of newly developed technologies at the appropriate point in the development process. For example, dispersant application for steam generator fouling mitigation was initially demonstrated at ANO-2 (short-term trial) and then McGuire (long-term trial) as part of the first-of-a-kind demonstration. Application of dispersant at other sites is supported via this project. Supports application of chemistry technology through plant demonstrations Members can draw on lessons learned for further, improved application Water Chemistry - Program p. 7

8 Results are delivered through a combination of application guidance and plant chemists workshops, providing improved implementation as a result of lessons learned. PWR Dispersant Application Support (061414) Steam generator (SG) deposits (fouling) can inhibit heat transfer, lead to thermal-hydraulic instabilities through blockage of tube supports, and create occluded regions where corrosive species can concentrate along tubes and in tube-to-tube support plate crevices. SG performance is compromised not only by formation of an insulating scale, but by the removal of tubes from service due to corrosion. Dispersant application is a very promising technology for significantly reducing SG fouling. A number of utilities are pursuing dispersant applications, utilizing the PWR Dispersant Application Sourcebook ( ). In addition, some utilities gain additional value from the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) in the form of plant-specific support as provided through this project. Further, EPRI is developing additional dispersant application technologies that could be included in an overall plant-specific program for dispersants. For example, dispersants can be used for increasing cleanup of corrosion products during SG wet layup or during long-path recirculation cleanup of the condensate/ feedwater piping prior to power operation. This EPRI project will support assessment and application of dispersant for SG fouling mitigation. Specific work will be determined in collaboration with all of the funding utilities, depending on need and plant-specific concerns. Assessments could involve the following: Plant-specific materials qualification assessment Chemistry operation and monitoring with dispersant injection (application plan) Evaluation of SG thermal performance, including a baseline evaluation prior to dispersant injection and customization of a thermal performance tracking spreadsheet Preparation of materials needed to support a 10CFR50.59 evaluation Successful on-line application of dispersant could reduce SG fouling by as much as 50% based on results from previous plant trials. Other applications during SG wet layup and startup could provide additional benefits. The products from this project are assessments, site-specific reports, and/or recommendations in support of application at a lead pressurized water reactor (PWR) unit. EPRI works hand-in-hand with each funding utility to identify and deliver what is needed for successful application, within funding constraint Products Dispersant application assessments: Assessments completed based on member input and need. 12/22/10 Resource Water Chemistry - Program p. 8

9 Future Year Products Dispersant application assessments: Assessments completed based on member input and needs. 12/22/11 Resource BWR Feedwater Iron Optimization Support (062736) The BWR Water Chemistry Guidelines recommend feedwater iron concentration in the range of ppb for plants operating with zinc addition and reducing chemistry conditions (hydrogen water chemistry as well as noble metal application technologies). Operation in the range of ppb is further encouraged to reduce the amount of zinc needed for dose rate control purposes. While many plants have been able to achieve these conditions, plants with non-optimized condensate filtration/demineralizer systems may need additional support to reduce feedwater iron inputs to these recommended levels. This project supports the optimization of feedwater iron by analyzing current operation and performance and providing recommendations to optimize future performance of the condensate filtration demineralizer system. The optimization of feedwater iron input results in enhanced plant operation: Reduced radwaste generation and exposure Improved fuel performance and reliability Optimized stress corrosion cracking mitigation technologies (such as hydrogen addition and noble metal injection) This project provides direct consultations with plant staff and a final electronic report detailing the project work and recommendations. Implementation of the report recommendations with regards to precoat usage and dosage on septa will be detailed. Application of these results will support optimized feedwater iron control. Chemistry User Groups and Specific Applications (052422) Chemistry staffs in the nuclear power industry continue to shrink as a result of economic pressures and the aging work force. Highly skilled personnel spend significant time completing mundane but necessary tasks, while the backlog of important, but less time-sensitive obligations continues to grow. At user group meetings, members learn about chemistry code improvements and provide essential input for the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) project manager to optimize code usage, learn how other utilities utilize the software and other technologies, and provide thoughts on future work that can utilize EPRI technology. This supplementary-funded project covers user groups and support for application of EPRI technology. Water Chemistry - Program p. 9

10 Direct support in applying EPRI chemistry technology and optimizing its effectiveness Increased efficiency and better utilization of plant personnel Opportunity to apply technology to adjust instrument calibration and verifications technology User group members receive direct support via meetings and product development. SMART ChemWorks User Group members gain access to a real-time plant water chemistry monitoring and advisory system that aids chemistry staff by completing routine chemistry analysis, identifying early indications of adverse plant chemistry, and alerting personnel to emerging issues. In addition, SMART ChemWorks User Group members can directly access EPRI engineers for specific support. ChemWorks User Group members receive direct support on application of ChemWorks codes. The EPRI-sponsored Zinc User Group provides a forum for plant personnel, EPRI, and vendors to share plant experiences related to zinc injection and challenges Products Third Annual International Users Group Meeting: The first international ChemWorks User Group meeting was hosted by Vandellos Nuclear Power Station, and the second meeting was hosted by the Spanish Association of Electrical Utilities (UNESA) in Madrid. This year's meeting is to be hosted by Electricité de France (EDF) and will continue with three days of training and discussion related to ChemWorks with a 1-1/2 day plant experience and information exchange discussion. Annual Zinc Users Group Meeting: Review of industry experience related to pressurized water reactor (PWR) zinc injection and provide input to the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) project manager (PM) related to ongoing work and research efforts. US ChemWorks / Smart ChemWorks Users Group Meeting: Continuing the successful ChemWorks training and User Group discussions over the past 3 years, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) is hosting the annual meeting focusing on future development opportunities addressing the 5-year development plan for ChemWorks. 09/01/10 10/01/10 12/17/10 Workshop, Training, or Conference Workshop, Training, or Conference Workshop, Training, or Conference BWR Condensate Filter Users Group (006388) While nuclear industry experience with condensate filtration is extensive, the variety of septa types, precoat materials, vessel designs, backwash, and precoating methods present application challenges. Open dialogue among users to share experiences can drive excellence in performance, especially with the ever-increasing emphasis on water chemistry limits and impacts on fuel performance, stress corrosion cracking mitigation, and radwaste and exposure reduction. The BWR Condensate Filter User Group supports optimization of water chemistry filtration technologies to control important chemistry parameters. Through annual User Group conferences, electronic reports, newsletters, and industry alerts, members gain access to industry experience that can be tailored to individual plant applications. A database of operational and technical information is maintained to address condensate filter system challenges. Water Chemistry - Program p. 10

11 This User Group has been successfully supporting the nuclear industry for more than 10 years. The database of operational and technical information provides extensive insight into the understanding of condensate filter system challenges. Lessons learned and implemented from the user group results in reduced radwaste and worker exposure, optimized fuel performance, and enhanced overall plant operation. Members of the BWR Condensate Filter User Group are able to apply the experience of other member's situations to their own utility. Special studies also are made available on a plant-specific basis and shared with the membership group. ChemWorksTM Users Group (006521) Economic pressures, work demand and reduced staffing require the chemist to spend more time in the field and less time evaluating changes in the chemistry programs. ChemWorks provides the user with a simple set of tools to quickly evaluate plant chemistry controls. The ChemWorks User Group uses a series of communication techniques to enhance the codes and application of the codes. Through industry forums, newsletters, annual meetings (US and International), web cast sessions and EPRI consulting or usage of the applications the EPRI technical staff can evaluate each application and enhance based on user feedback and testing / evaluations. ChemWorks use a sophisticated EPRI developed mathematical models to aid the plant chemist in the development of optimal chemistry programs. User group members receive direct support via meeting and product development as well as individual training on ChemWorks codes. PWR Primary Zinc Application Users Group (061425) Many Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) reports have been published over the years regarding the effectiveness of zinc addition for primary water stress corrosion cracking (PWSCC) mitigation (for both initiation and crack growth rate), including the development of PWR Zinc Application Guidelines in However, there remains a strong need for plant personnel to exchange information first-hand and provide focused input on future research activities. At each user group meeting, members provide an update on their plant or utility's zinc injection program status. These updates address all aspects of a zinc injection program, including planning, implementation, scheduling, and long-term strategy. The user group members also receive updates related to pressurized water reactor (PWR) reactor coolant system zinc addition. Water Chemistry - Program p. 11

12 The Zinc User Group provides an optimal forum for members to benchmark new and existing zinc injection programs throughout the industry. Sharing of lessons learned and annual updates related to EPRI research programs associated with zinc addition will provide utilities with a valuable tool for implementation, strategizing, and planning. The EPRI-sponsored Zinc User Group provides a common forum of plant personnel, EPRI, and vendors to share plant experiences related to zinc injection and challenges. SMART ChemWORKS Users Group - Maintenance and Support (007452) Chemistry staffs in the nuclear power industry continue to shrink as a result of economic pressures and the aging work force. Highly skilled personnel spend too much time completing mundane but necessary tasks, while the backlog of important, but less time-sensitive obligations, continue to grow. EPRI S SMART ChemWorks is a real-time plant water chemistry monitoring and advisory system that aids chemistry staff by completing routine chemistry analysis, identifying early indications of adverse plant chemistry, and alerting personnel to emerging issues. SMART ChemWorks uses sophisticated mathematical models and pattern-recognition techniques to identify abnormal conditions. Once installed, plant managers can look forward to increased efficiency and better utilization of plant personnel, reduced risk of plant components damage, increased chemistry monitoring coverage and early detection of chemistry problems, improved control of chemical injection systems, reduced cost due to optimization of grab sample frequencies, and reduced out of specification time or instrumentation The SMART ChemWorks system relies on continuous chemistry monitoring (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) and real-time evaluation of plant chemistry conditions, accurate and prompt diagnosis of abnormal chemistry, instantaneous alerting to adverse chemistry trends through an /paging system and web page alerts, automatic data transfer from your plant to the SMART ChemWorks program; online access to data through secure web pages, remote operation on an EPRI server and application of EPRI Guidance including BWRVIP and BWRVIA results. SMART ChemWorks Users Group-New Installation Chemistry staffs in the nuclear power industry continue to shrink as a result of economic pressures and the aging work force. Highly skilled personnel spend too much time completing mundane but necessary tasks, while the backlog of important, but less time-sensitive obligations, continue to grow. EPRI S SMART ChemWorks is a real-time plant water chemistry monitoring and advisory system that aids chemistry staff by completing routine chemistry analysis, identifying early indications of adverse plant chemistry, and alerting personnel to emerging issues. Water Chemistry - Program p. 12

13 SMART ChemWorks uses sophisticated mathematical models and pattern-recognition techniques to identify abnormal conditions. Once installed, plant managers can look forward to increased efficiency and better utilization of plant personnel, reduced risk of plant components damage, increased chemistry monitoring coverage and early detection of chemistry problems, improved control of chemical injection systems, reduced cost due to optimization of grab sample frequencies, and reduced out of specification time or instrumentation The SMART ChemWorks system relies on continuous chemistry monitoring (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) and real-time evaluation of plant chemistry conditions, accurate and prompt diagnosis of abnormal chemistry, instantaneous alerting to adverse chemistry trends through an /paging system and web page alerts, automatic data transfer from your plant to the SMART ChemWorks program; online access to data through secure web pages, remote operation on an EPRI server and application of EPRI Guidance including BWRVIP and BWRVIA results. PWR Primary and Secondary Resins and Filters Users Group (063963) Minimization of ionic and particulate impurity transport in the reactor coolant and the steam generators in pressurized water reactors (PWRs) is a major goal of plant chemistry control programs. To achieve this goal, PWR stations employ a wide variety of chemical and volume control systems, condensate polishers, and steam generator blowdown demineralizer systems and use different strategies to operate theses systems. The PWR Primary and Secondary Resins and Filters User Group will function in a manner similar to the BWR Condensate Filter User Group, which was formed in the late 1990s to address problems and optimization issues with condensate filters. Sharing of industry experience can improve and accelerate plant activities to reduce impurity transport. The user group will track operating experience and perform focused studies on specific industry issues. The technology review and comparison of plant practices will help plants improve reactor coolant system cleanup, reduce iron transport to the steam generators, and reduce low-level waste generation. Review and benchmarking activities will be performed through annual meetings, with products defined by user group members. This group will identify and improve the application of demineralizers, filters, and membrane technologies applied in PWRs by assisting in the evaluation of filter and ion exchange performance and by sharing of information concerning filter design, novel resin use, and other general operating experience. Application of the practices identified as optimal will be performed at member utilities on an as-needed basis. A key product target will be development of a demineralizer and filter sourcebook, from which users can reference for industry best-practices. Water Chemistry - Program p. 13

14 BWR Reactor Water Cleanup Users Group Reactor water cleanup (RWCU) performance in boiling water reactors (BWRs) is vital to optimized plant operation. During power operating conditions, nonvolatile impurities that enter the reactor are either removed by the RWCU or deposited within the primary reactor system. Asset preservation initiatives and aggressive goals for dose reduction and fuel reliability have placed a greater emphasis on optimizing RWCU system performance during power operation and shutdown periods. Sharing of operating experience can assist in benchmarking performance and in identifying performance optimization techniques. This User Group supports the optimization of the RWCU system, thus allowing for maximized system availability and removal efficiency of ionic impurities and soluble and insoluble activated corrosion products. Initiated in 2009, this new User Group targets RWCU optimization opportunities to support mitigation of stress corrosion cracking of susceptible components, to control chemistry during shutdown periods, to minimize radwaste generation, and to optimize the removal of impurities that may adversely impact fuel performance. Members of the RWCU User Group apply the experience of other members to their own utility situations. Special studies also are made available on a plant-specific basis and shared with the membership group. BWR Zinc Users Group Many Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) reports have been published over the years regarding plant experience with zinc injection on drywell shutdown radiation dose rates and laboratory investigations on zinc effectiveness for intergranular stress corrosion cracking (IGSCC) mitigation for sensitized Alloy 600, 304 stainless steel, and Alloy 182 weld metal. However, given the need to balance the chemistry and radiation benefits of zinc with fuel concerns regarding tenacious crud deposits and the potential effects of crud/oxide spallation, there remains a strong need for plant personnel to exchange information first-hand and provide focused input on future research activities. These activities can be supported by the formation of a focused boiling water reactor (BWR) Zinc User Group. A focused BWR Zinc User Group would enable participants to update their peers on plant/utility zinc injection programs. s would address all aspects of the zinc program, including planning, implementation, scheduling, and long-term strategy. User Group members would receive updates related to radiation field control (BRAC), reactor water and feedwater zinc data trends, reactor water Co-60(s)/Zn(s) ratio control, Co- 60 trends, and effectiveness of Zn injection following noble metal applications and reactor recirculation piping chemical decontaminations. The BWR Zinc User Group will provide an optimal forum for utilities to benchmark zinc injection programs throughout the industry. Sharing of lessons learned and annual updates related to EPRI research programs associated with zinc addition will provide utilities with a valuable tool for implementation, strategizing, and planning. Water Chemistry - Program p. 14

15 The EPRI BWR Zinc User Group will provide members with access to industry data relevant to zinc injection, data correlations, an annual User Group meeting to share and benchmark plant experiences related to zinc injection, and discussion of EPRI zinc-related projects and work prioritization. Water Chemistry Guide (061430) Nuclear power plants must continuously review and optimize chemistry controls to enable operation with highduty cores and outage timeline reductions and to meet department, site, and as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) goals. Thorough reviews require experts who understand the chemistry and operational limitations and can optimize chemistry controls. Individual members sometimes need direct one-to-one assistance from the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) in the areas of water chemistry assessments and program support. This project provides direct EPRI support to optimize chemistry, materials, and corrosion control at member nuclear power plants utilizing EPRI technology. EPRI experts use a standardized approach based on EPRI guidelines, site goals, outage schedules, and plant experience to review and optimize a plant's sound chemistry program. EPRI also applies knowledge gained through related projects, such as the Shutdown Chemistry Benchmarking project, the Fuel Crud Reaction Kinetics project, various industry User Groups, and the Pressurized Water Reactor Chemistry Monitoring and Assessment project. Access to dedicated support in applying EPRI technology on a plant-specific basis Benchmark plant chemistry controls based on the Pressurized Water Reactor Chemistry Monitoring Database Provide recommendations to optimize chemistry controls, outage schedules, and minimize chemistry impacts on outages Review the technical basis for the site-specific chemistry evaluation including application of shutdown chemistry concepts in the outage plan, optimization of amine concentrations, and possible improvements within the overall chemistry process with each evaluation Review and provide a roadmap to successful implementation of water chemistry strategic plans as mandated by the water chemistry guidelines Implementation of recommendations based on plant-specific assessments utilizing EPRI technology can lead to improved chemistry controls and enhanced chemistry strategic plans supporting cycle management goals Products Supplemental Overview and Lessons Learned: The supplemental program is to report / develop a lessons learned industry experience technical resource based on the supplemental program offerings. 12/17/10 Resource Water Chemistry - Program p. 15

16 Strategic Water Chemistry Plan Review (061413) With the January 2004 Nuclear Energy Institute Guideline for the Management of Materials Issues (NEI 03-08), every U.S. nuclear generator committed to ensuring that its management of materials degradation and aging is forward-looking and coordinated to the maximum extent practical and meeting the intent of the EPRI Water Chemistry Guidelines. Also, the intent of NEI has governed the revisions of the pressurized water reactor (PWR) Secondary, PWR Primary, PWR Primary to Secondary Leak (PSL), and boiling water reactor (BWR) Water Chemistry Guideline revisions. The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has the insight and understanding of these guideline processes and intents. EPRI reviews strategic water chemistry plans to: Review strategic water chemistry goals and align them to plant goals Address strengths and weaknesses of the plan Review technical justifications for deviations or analysis of current justifications consistent with guideline expectations Review for forward projections and historical information Enhance overall plan The January 2004 Nuclear Energy Institute Guideline for the Management of Materials Issues commits every U.S. nuclear operator to implement both the letter of the guidelines and their intents. This is a significant challenge facing every U.S. nuclear generator. The Strategic Water Chemistry Plan Review details the strengths and weaknesses of the plan which provides for an enhanced optimization plan Chemistry & Materials Optimization Program (064694) Chemistry programs can impact multiple systems and functional elements within a nuclear plant, including flow-accelerated corrosion (FAC) program evaluations, low-level waste (LLW) and radiation management programs as-low-as-reasonably-achievable (ALARA) assessments, and maintenance and work management programs. A holistic approach to evaluating the interactions among these systems can enable nuclear plants to optimize chemistry-related decisions. The Chemistry and Materials Optimization Program uses a simple, six-step process: 1. Determine the desired state. 2. Determine the current state. 3. Determine the barriers to the goals. 4. Determine the path from the current to the desired state. 5. Implement and execute the plan. 6. Review continuously. Water Chemistry - Program p. 16

17 The Chemistry and Materials Optimization Program provides plant operators with the following: Reduction in unplanned chemistry excursions, inspections, and materials and component replacements Improved management and work culture Optimized people skills and human resources Optimized engineering of specific plant systems Identification of underutilized Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) technology Optimized chemistry and materials programs to improve equipment reliability and work processes The Chemistry and Materials Optimization Program is designed to provide plant operators with an assessment tool that can be administered by EPRI or other trained individuals. The raw data results are then evaluated using Spider software to identify cross-cutting issues and administrative or managerial weaknesses. PWR Secondary Cycle ph Optimization (064149) Materials corrosion in the condensate, feedwater, and drain systems of pressurized water reactors (PWRs) generates a significant amount of corrosion products in the secondary cycle. Generally, these corrosion products are transported into steam generators (SGs) and deposited on tubing surfaces, tubesheets, and tube support plates. These corrosion products can act as sites for ionic impurity concentration in restricted areas, leading to corrosion of steam-generator tubing. This project will develop a plant-specific corrosion-products mass balance file based on current plant equipment. The mass balance results are evaluated to assess how changes in the type and concentration of amines could optimize secondary cycle ph. Local ph strongly affects corrosion of several different types, including intergranular attack and stress corrosion cracking (IGA/SCC). The right choice of amines and proper operation of a ph control additive will reduce SG fouling and deposit consideration. Secondary-cycle ph optimization aids in the selection of optimum amines for the plant, thus minimizing corrosion product transfer. Members receive a detailed report discussing the status of corrosion-product transport and local phs in the secondary cycle, along with recommendations and supporting documentation for optimum amine selection. Application of these results will support an optimized feedwater iron control. PWR Cycle Chemistry Evaluations Plant chemistry is an integral part of performance, operational excellence, and material conditions. Long-term data evaluations are instrumental in developing an integrated approach to chemistry that supports plant goals and long-range commitments. During power operation, ionic impurities or corrosion products enter systems that could accelerate corrosion or change plant thermal characteristics, compounding system performance problems. Reviewing chemistry data related to plant operations allows personnel to adjust chemistry control Water Chemistry - Program p. 17

18 programs, review long-term chemistry trends for adverse system performance, and optimize chemistry control programs to support long-range goals EPRI assists plant operators in reviewing their cycle chemistry from startup through plant shutdown by: Reviewing startup, cycle and shutdown chemistry controls, including the performance of a hideout return and trends Review the corrective actions related to primary and secondary issues during the cycle for effectiveness and completeness Evaluate and trend chemistry results using EPRI-developed tools to document behaviors Provide recommendations to improve the site program based on trends and observations Understanding the impact of ionic impurities and / or corrosion products that enter the systems during startup, power operation and shutdown chemistry can accelerate corrosion, dose rates or change plant thermal characteristics, thereby compounding system performance problems. Application the lessons learned can enhance plant trending programs and captures the longer term trends that slowly buildup contaminant levels potentially degrading performance. Implementing EPRI PWR Chemistry Guidelines (066681) NEI 97-06, Steam Generator Program Guidelines requires utilities to review and implement EPRI PWR Primary Water, Secondary Water Chemistry Guidelines and Primary-to-Secondary Leakage Guidelines and document chemistry control decisions in a plant specific strategic plan. The EPRI PWR Primary and Secondary guidelines provide utilities with the basic format and information that should be included in the plant strategic plan and allows the utilities the flexibility to build and develop the plan, but does not provide staff personnel with the background, basis or potential techniques to optimize implementation or how to take a deviation from the EPRI Guidelines. This training is intended for the staff chemist or supervisor that is responsible for implementing the EPRI Chemistry Guidelines. The Implementing EPRI Guidelines can help operating power plants improve their chemistry program basis and documentation by: reviewing the EPRI Chemistry Guidelines basis and control sections, reviewing the EPRI Primary-to-Secondary Leak Rate Guidelines basis and control sections and, provide a systematic approach to review procedures and adjust to EPRI guideline revisions and, provide a session on deviation and how to process a plant deviation to meet the intent of the EPRI Guidelines and industry, provide a systematic review process of plant strategic plan requirements. Actual hands on training / discussion and work group sessions with plant specific documentation reviewing to current industry guidance for new plant chemist or a refresher for chemist. Water Chemistry - Program p. 18