Reliability of Onsite Diesel Generators at Light Water Reactors (Generic Letter 79-17)
GL79017
UNITED STATES
NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20555
April 18, 1979
Docket Nos.: 50-443/444
All Light Water Power Reactor Licensees
Gentlemen:
This letter is being sent to all licensees authorized to operate or
construct a light water power reactor and to all applicants for a
licenses to operate or construct a light water power reactor.
A review of the operating experience of the emergency onsite diesel
generators at light water reactors as reported in the licensee Event
Reports (1969-1977) indicated that their reliability could be improved.
The reliability of the diesel generator is strongly dependent on the
interaction of the following factors: design, testing and operational
requirements, operational history, inspections, maintenance, and the
personnel qualifications of operators. To assist us in identifying any
significant deficiencies, the University of Dayton Research Institute,
under our contract, prepared a report entitled "Enhancement of Onsite
Emergency Diesel Generator Reliability" (NUREG 0660) which identifies
the major problems together with recommended corrective actions for
improving reliability. We will review the report and evaluate each
recommendation for its applicability to all licensees authorized to
operate or construct light water power reactors and to all applicants
for a license to operate or construct a light water power reactor by
balancing the potential improvement in reliability versus the adverse
impact of implementing the recommendation on the plants.
Since our review and evaluation of the report has not been completed we
are enclosing a copy of NUREG 0660, the University of Dayton Research
Institute report, for your information and comments. Comments or other
factors which may be considered major problems preventing improved
onsite emergency diesel generator reliability are encouraged
.
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and should be forwarded to Fred Clemeson, Plant Systems Branch,
Division of Operating Reactor, U. S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission,
Washington, D.C. 20555.
Sincerely,
D. B. Vassallo, Assistant Director
for Light Water Reactors
Division of Project Management
Enclosure:
NUREG 0660
ccs w/o encl:
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