Condensate pumps provide the motive force to deliver condensate from the hotwell to the deaerator storage tanks. Advanced Power Reactor 1400 (APR1400) is comprised of three 50% capacity motor driven condensate pumps with control performed by level control valves (LCVs). This configuration presents a challenge since the flow of condensate water is controlled by LCVs only. These LCVs are in throttled position in the pipeline where throttling of valves causes the loss of system efficiency by increasing the resistance to the flow. Generally, Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) allow to operate motors and pumps at the precise speed needed for the process and energy saving. This paper investigates if there are any advantages when VFD is used to control the CPs and check the possibility of eliminating LCVs. Therefore, the NPP model was developed using Electrical Transient Analysis Program (ETAP) software and was benchmarked to APR1400. The analysis was performed with VFD installed and without VFD. The new approach for CP energy saving calculation using VFD was introduced and the results were confirmed by the ETAP model simulation results. The conclusion was drawn from the results whether the application of VFD for CPs has advantages for energy savings and economic benefits.

Lead-acid batteries are currently the most popular for direct current (DC) power in power plants. They are also the most widely used electric energy storage device but too much space is needed to increase energy storage. Lithium-ion batteries have a higher energy density, allowing them to store more energy than other types of batteries. The purpose of this paper is to elaborate on the factors affecting the capacity design of lithium-ion stationary batteries. Factors that need to be considered in calculating the capacity of stationary lithium-ion batteries are investigated and reviewed, and based on the results, a method of calculating capacity of stationary lithium-ion batteries for industrial use is proposed. In addition, the capacity and area required for replacing the lead-acid batteries for nuclear power plants with lithium-ion batteries are reviewed as part of this case study.

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CO2 net neutralization by 2050 is a global target. Renewable energy and nuclear power generation are emerging as major power sources for CO2 net neutralization. Therefore, this paper comprehensively reviews the load-following operation method of nuclear power plants as a method to compensate for intermittency, which is the biggest weakness of renewable energy. First, this paper looks at the types of SMRs and elaborates the concept and necessity of load following. The comprehensive requirements for the load-following operation of an SMR, i.e., planned operation, automatic generation control, governor-free operation, cooperative control of the reactor and turbine generator, unit control of a multiple-module SMR, cogeneration, etc., are studied. Finally, the interaction between an SMR and the power grid during load-following operation and other technical issues are also reviewed. This paper can be used as a guide for load-following operations or as a guide for requirement analysis when developing a comprehensive control system of load following in SMR fleets.

In nuclear power plants, plant management systems are not only very important for operation and maintenance of the facilities, but also play a very important role in analyzing and reporting the events to the authorities when a failure or accident occurs in the facility. In addition, it is also important to ensure that event records are managed transparently so as not to cause any attempt to cover up events. Therefore, this paper proposes a tamper free plant operation system by applying blockchain technology to the integrated plant management system of Korea hydro and nuclear power (KHNP). As a result, this paper will contribute to improving public acceptance by eliminating distrust in safe operation of nuclear power plants.