Possible damage to nuclear fuel with radiation release - SNRIU

The blackout of Zaporizhzhya NPP that occurred on the night of December 2 December, could have provoked the cessation of heat dissipation from nuclear fuel, which could result in a release of radiation into the environment. After the emergency disconnection from the power grid, ZNPP was connected to only one line. This was the This was reported on the air of the "United News" marathon by the acting head of the SNRIU Acting Chairman Oleh Korikov, reports UNN.

Details

On the night of December 2, ZNPP lost the last line that that fed the nuclear power plant from the Ukrainian power grid. It was the main 750 kV line. 750 kV line. Before that, a 330 kV line was disconnected. As a result, ZNPP was completely de-energized and switched to diesel power plants. Currently, only the 750 kV line is working, and the 330 kV line cannot be restored due to shelling

He reminded that the plant is still in operation despite the occupation. and all six of its power units are loaded with nuclear fuel.

SEE ALSO: Zaporizhzhia NPP switched from backup to normal power supply after blackout - Ukrenergo

In any case, it is dangerous because residual heat is released, which must be removed to the environment. For this purpose, a whole range of equipment and systems is designed and must be operated and maintained properly. This is not happening now. Let me give you an example: each power unit currently emits heat in the amount of approximately 700 kW. This energy needs to be dissipated, and if the heat is not removed the temperature will increase and nuclear fuel may be damaged with a probable radiation release into the environment

He emphasized that to remove these volumes of heat, pumping equipment that pumps water is used to remove these amounts of heat. This equipment has is electrically driven, so it is extremely important to maintain the electrical voltage at the NPP, to keep it running.

Reported

by Energoatom, another blackout occurred at Zaporizhzhia NPP on December 2, which poses a threat to nuclear and radiation safety. Subsequently, Ukrainian specialists restored the connection with the Ukrainian power system, namely, the 750 kV power line was restored.