A course which discusses the characterization of insulation types, those factors which affect equipment qualifications, and the performance methods for condition assessments of insulation.
Many nuclear power plants 25 to 35 years old are undergoing rehabilitation programs to extend plant life up to 60 years. Instrumentation and control cables are identified as major components to be examined in life extension programs. Cable insulation is exposed to radiation, thermal, and moist environments during normal operation in addition to extraordinary radiation and thermal conditions in a postulated design basis accident event. Aged insulation is prone to embrittlement and cracking, which leads to shorting when moisture is present.
This course covers the following topics:
- Techniques used to characterize the insulation types
- Factors affecting the equipment qualification process
- How to perform condition assessment of the insulation using visual, destructive, and non-destructive techniques.
Low-voltage installed cables, insulated with PVC, XLPE, EPR, and EPR-bonded with Hypalon, are considered. The techniques discussed allow plant personnel to extend cable life without additional qualification tests.
Download Course Outline
