RE: submarines and Norm

["Kent, Michael D." <Michael.Kent@nmcco.com>]

Kent, the reason they may never be refueled, is the robust fuel elements,

unique geometry, and the fact they used highly enriched fuel.  Fifteen years

and they still have nearly half of their fuel left.  Also, because cost is

no problem, they can build and equip them with high integrity materials.

Also, try and build a steam generator with the same material processes and

specs the Navy uses, and see what it costs.  Steam generator chemistry, as

many, commercial PWRs found out is not just basic chemistry and periodic

evaluation.





1.   The reason the 688's will never be refueled is because of cost and cost alone.  In the post cold war era, the fleet has been reduced from >100 subs to ~60 subs.   The core was designed to last ~20 years without refueling.  But the subs are being decommissioned before that time even arrives.  The sub as a whole is not obsolete, and has plenty of life left, it is just about cost.  The Navy cannot afford to keep so many around.



2.  The Steam Generator Chemistry used in the Civilian world looks at chemical contaminant levels 10-1000 time lower than the Navy.  Maybe it is something to do with the construction, the Navy spent the money up front in construction, so they would not have to down the line, you pay the piper some time.  Maybe in the Navy it is taught the first assumption in reactor protection analysis is that chemistry is in spec at the beginning of the casualty, so keep in spec all the times no matter what.  People are correct in one area, the Navy does not put production or cost ahead of properly operating the plant.  "Well we will correct that chemistry problem down the line.  It really isn't affecting me now."  That sort of mentality has lead to things 10 years later biting Commercial Plants in the behind.



Michael D. Kent

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