Instrumentation and Control Systems for Sizewell B

Abstract

Sizewell B is the first nuclear power station to be built in the UK using the pressurized water reactor system. Although the design is based on that of pressurized water reactor stations constructed in the United States, many changes and new features have been introduced to suit British practice and licensing requirements. Among the novel features of Sizewell B are entirely new designs for the man-machine interfaces in the main control and auxiliary shutdown rooms, and for the control and instrumentation systems. These new designs incorporate lessons learned by Nuclear Electric as an electrical utility and nuclear power station operator. This paper describes the development of the designs for the control rooms, and instrumentation and control systems, explaining some of the thinking that lay behind the design decisions. It also contrasts the practices employed on Sizewell B with some of the latest thinking coming out of the United States.