JRTR, the first research reactor in Jordan : results of commissioning in light of safety enhancement following fukushima-daiichi accident

Abstract EN

-Jordan Research and Training Reactor (JRTR) is a multipurpose, 5 MWth upgradable to 10 MWth reactor.

Currently, the JRTR is in the operational phase.

Prior to the start of JRTR operation, a set of commissioning tests have been performed.

The IAEA safety guide NS-G-4.1 has been followed.

The commissioning process was divided into three main stages with hold points at the end of each stage.

These stages are; tests prior to fuel loading, fuel loading tests and initial criticality tests which include low power tests.

The last stage constitutes power ascension tests and power tests up to rated full power.

The performed tests proved that all design and performance parameters have been achieved.

For instance, the thermal power of 5 MW, maximum thermal neutron flux of 1.5 ×1014 (n/cm2.s) and negative reactivity feedback have been achieved.

The safety of the JRTR was under extensive inspection from all involved parties.

Particular attention has been paid to the lessons learned from the Fukushima-Daiichi accident and the recommendations made by the national regulator, the IAEA, the consultants and the owner.

For instance, all safety aspects of the JRTR fall under the category of SC-3 according to the ANSI/ANS 51.1 classification system of nuclear reactors.

As examples, the Reactor Structure Assembly (RSA), Primary Cooling System (PCS), Second Shutdown Drive Mechanism/ Control Rod Drive Mechanism (SSDM/CRDM), Reactor Protection System (RPS), Confinement Isolation Dampers, Siphon Breaking Valves and UPS have been classified as Safety Class (SC-3) components.

Design changes of systems and equipment due to the reinforced international safety norm, addition, expansion and modification of facilities have been implemented.

The quality class of several components, such as Process Instrumentation and Control System (PICS), Radiation Monitoring System (RMS), Information Processing System (IPS) and Operator Work Station (OWS), has been upgraded.

Moreover, expansion and modification of facilities to accommodate systems and equipment have been applied.

The seismic monitoring system has been improved by upgrading the quality class and by adding a function generating the automatic seismic trip signal when a seismic motion exceeds Operating Basis Earthquake (OBE).

Pool liner integrity has been also enhanced.

Furthermore, the emergency conditions have attracted special attention.

The emergency water storage capacity has been increased and two mobile diesel generators have been placed in a building of seismic category I.

This paper is divided into two main parts.

The first part presents the commissioning stage of the JRTR as well as the final results and conclusions.

The second part describes the safety aspects and the improvements made taking the lessons learned from the Fukushima-Daiichi accident into account.

Keywords: JRTR, Research reactor, Reactor commissioning, Reactor safety.