Abstract: An automatic pump protection system is comprised of a plurality of sensors for measuring process parameters indicative of a loss of pump suction or of pump motor failure. Analysis of the parameters is performed by a microprocessor in order to determine whether conditions leading to a loss of pump suction or pump motor failure are present. The microprocessor then automatically initiates pump protective action in response to the foregoing analysis by tripping the pump or by providing an alternate suction source.

Abstract: A method for testing a normally closed check valve connected in series with an isolation valve at the outlet of a passive injection system includes adjusting pressure upstream and downstream of the check and isolation valves to an upstream pressure higher than the downstream pressure and then opening and closing the isolation valve. In order to verify proper operation of the check valve, a preoperational test is performed to provide base line data and acceptance criteria. In a typical passive injection system having an accumulator tank, pressure and level changes of liquid in the accumulator tank are recorded during the opening and closing of the isolation valve. The recorded measurements of pressure and level during each test of the check valve are compared with the acceptance criteria to determine whether the check valve operates properly.

Abstract: A passive method of adjusting the pH of the liquid used to flood the containment structure of a nuclear reactor following an accident such as loss of primary or secondary coolant. Perforated containers or baskets, which contain a pH adjusting chemical which is soluble in the flooding liquid (usually a slightly acidic solution of borated water) and which are covered or encapsulated with a plastic protective material, which is like soluble in the flooding liquid, are located in the emergency containment sumps.