RE: DB to test for leaks

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

>The seven-day power-up test, which the company wants to do in late December, involves reloading the fuel rods, bolting down the reactor's new lid, and

>turning on the coolant-circulating pumps. The pumps' heat and the natural decay of the radioactive fuel will bring the reactor to its normal operating temperature and

>pressure

 

1)  This hydrostatic test is performed at all reactors after refueling.  This is nothing special, although in this article they may want it to appear that way.

 

2) The amount of heat added be the fuel is insignificant.  The reason the primary heats up is one reason alone.  The pumps.

 

Michael D. Kent RRPT (ss)