AREVA digital control system completes factory acceptance testing

AREVA Inc. announced Wednesday that factory acceptance testing for its digital control rod drive control system (DCRDCS) has been completed.

This system is tasked with managing power operations of a nuclear reactor by controlling mechanisms in charge of inserting and ejecting control rods. According to the company, the system offers simplified maintenance and streamlines system configuration and operational reliability.

“Nuclear power plants are receiving licenses to operate for longer periods of time, and several operators have upgraded critical control systems and are taking advantage of the operational benefits associated with our latest digital technology,” Carl Fisher, AREVA's vice president for Hardware Modernizations and Nuclear Parts Center, said. “The double and triple redundant aspects of our pressurized water reactor rod control solutions help eliminate aging issues, improve reliability and support safe, long-term operation.”

The first DCRDCS will be installed at the Davis-Besse Nuclear Power Station in Oak Harbor, Ohio, and is expected to enter operations in the spring of 2016. The next phase for AREVA will be the completion of the system's assembly so that it can be delivered with complete documentation.

AREVA is an international company that specializes in multiple areas of the nuclear energy industry, including the design and manufacture of nuclear reactors, components and fuel rods.