BWR Scram System (Generic Letter 80-84)
GL80084
UNITED STATES
NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20555
October 1, 1980
TO ALL BWR LICENSEES
SUBJECT: BWR SCRAM SYSTEM
On June 28, 1980, during a routine shutdown of the Browns Ferry 3 reactor, a
manual scram failed to insert all control rods. I&E Bulletin 80-17 with
subsequent supplements 1, 2 and 3 has been issued which has required system
modifications, procedural and design verifications, additional surveillance
and tests, and analyses to assure adequate short-term performance of
existing scram systems on operating plants.
However, we believe further hardware and procedural changes will be required
to assure adequate long-term scram system reliability. We are aware that the
BWR owners have formed a Sub-Group of the BWR Owners Group to address this
matter and are in the process of developing design and performance criteria.
Therefore, in order to determine whether or not your license should be
modified, please provide us in writing, under oath or affirmation, within 25
days of the date of this letter your plans for participation in this effort.
In addition, your response should include:
(1) The results of any reassessment of your present scram system to
confirm conformance with the General Design Criteria (Appendix A
to 10 CFR 50).
(2) Whether you intend to reevaluate your present scram system and
modify it as necessary to meet the additional design and
performance criteria developed by the Owners Sub-Group. If not,
what criteria will be used to judge the adequacy of your present
scram system?
(3) Whether you intend to provide by December 15, 1980, the results of
the above reevaluation (including required modifications) along
with a schedule for implementation. If not, why not.
This information is requested under the authority of 10 CFR 50.54(f) of the
Commission's regulations.
If you have any questions concerning this matter, please call your Project
Manager.
Sincerely,
Darrell G. Eisenhut, Director
Division of Licensing
cc: Service Lists
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