I'm not particularly familiar with japanese BWRs (boiling water reactors) as I work at a US PWR (pressurized water reactor) site, but in any event, high vibration trips are not an uncommon occurrence. Oftentimes it is due to worn bearings or misalignments after maintenance. I don't know what the report means by "turbulence in the turbine." Possibly there was a void in the steam line or something. In the end, the protection systems did their job and the plant shutdown safely (which is the important thing).

Really, it's not that exciting. It's unfortunate that the RSOE is making this event out to be more than it probably is. I wouldn't lose any sleep over it.

Originally posted by subz
The timing has me very suspicious indeed.

I agree.

Otherwise, what an odd coincidence.

other than the odd coincidence...
dont you think it is wierd that it says japan has been plagued by accidents and violations? not something you would want on your resume


Cheerio!
Digitalgrl

yeah, it could be retalliation against the Kyoto conference.

sorry i usually dont live under a rock but can you tell me what happened at the kyoto confrence?

i get that we dont want iran having nuclear tech and everything but i also dont think it is a good idea for there to be a country having nuclear tech that is being plagued by violations and accidents ....i mean intentially nuking someone is bad enough but doing it on accident isnt great either ya know. but obviously the world isnt going to go to japan and say hey "you guys suck at this..so stop using it" lol
plus i like japan despite their nuclear weaknesses lol


Kind Regards,
digitalgrl

Steam is made by the reactors to turn a turbine or turbines which in turn rotate generators for making electricity.

These turbines have built in safety devices...one being a overspeed trip. These are automatic trips with a preset tripping point. If you get outside of these preset points in performance the turbines will shut down.
What you do not want is vibration so ...runaway ..type bad that it causes a massive steam leak in these generating areas. This would be a really bad situation.

These turbines and generators are spin balanced for a certain performance envelope. Intresting to watch vendors perform this balancing operation.

Thanks,
Orangetom