Maximum licensable core power rating

In summary: Some of the newer designs, such as the Hitachi ABWR-II and the AREVA EPR, have significantly higher core power than older designs, with the ABWR-II reaching 4960 MWt and the EPR reaching 4590 MWt.
  • #1
gmax137
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Back in the 1970's and 1980's I was told that the NRC wouldn't license a design over 3800 or 4000 MWth. The new designs must be considerably higher (another post mentions the Hitachi at 1700 MWe, seems like that must be approaching 5000 MWth core power). Was I given bad info way back when, or has the NRC/ACRS had a change of opinion that let's them consider such core designs? I can (almost) remember seeing the upper limit in print somewhere (SRPs??) but I can't find it now.
 
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  • #2
From IAEA the evolutionary LWRs are:

Evolutionary LWRs
  • 1380 MWe ABWR (Toshiba); 1360 or 1500 MWe ABWR (GE-Hitachi);
  • 1700 MWe ABWR-II (Japanese utilities; GE-Hitachi or Toshiba);
  • 1540 MWe APWR & 1700 MWe APWR+ (Mitsubishi)
  • 600 MWe AP-600; 1100 MWe AP-1000; and 335 MWe IRIS (Westinghouse)
  • 1550 MWe ESBWR (GE-Hitachi)
  • 1545 MWe EPR and 1250 MWe SWR-1000 (Areva)
  • 1100 MWe ATMEA1 (Areva & Mitsubishi)
  • 1000 MWe OPR and 1400 MWe APR (KHNP and Korean Industry)
  • 1000 MWe CPR (CGNPC); 650 MWe CNP (CNNC) and 600 MWe AC-600 (NPIC)
  • 1000 MWe WWER-1000 /1200 (V-392); WWER-1500; and WWER-640 (V-407) (AtomEnergoProm)

As far as I know, Hitachi offers BWRs, e.g., ABWR. The ABWR-II is a 4960 MWt / 1700 MWe NPP. It uses a larger (wider) assembly and larger (wider) water gap than current BWRs.
Ref paper from ICONE1999: http://www.jsme.or.jp/monograph/pes/1999/ICONE7/PAPERS/TRACK06/FP7426.PDF

AREVA/EdF N4 plants are rated 4270 MWt with 205 17x17 assemblies/core and 14-ft active fuel height.

Mitsubishi - US-APWR is rated 4451 MWt with 257 17x17 assemblies/core and 13.8-ft active core height.

AREVA EPR is rated 4590 MWt with 241 17x17 assemblies/core and 13.8-ft active core height.
 
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  • #3
It's possible that the information you were given back in the 1970's and 1980's was accurate at the time. The NRC's regulations and guidelines are constantly evolving and being updated, so it's possible that they have changed their stance on the maximum core power for licensed designs. It's also possible that the technology and safety measures have advanced to the point where the NRC is now comfortable with higher core power designs. It's always a good idea to double check any information you receive, especially if it's from a long time ago.
 

What is "Maximum Licensable Core Power Rating"?

"Maximum Licensable Core Power Rating" refers to the maximum amount of power that a computer's central processing unit (CPU) is licensed to use. This rating is typically determined by the manufacturer and is based on the CPU's design and capabilities.

Why is the "Maximum Licensable Core Power Rating" important?

The "Maximum Licensable Core Power Rating" is important because it helps determine the performance and capabilities of a computer system. It also affects the amount of heat generated by the CPU, which can impact the system's stability and lifespan.

How is the "Maximum Licensable Core Power Rating" determined?

The "Maximum Licensable Core Power Rating" is determined by the CPU's design and specifications, including its clock speed, number of cores, and thermal design power (TDP). It is also heavily influenced by the manufacturer's testing and quality control processes.

Is it possible to exceed the "Maximum Licensable Core Power Rating"?

Technically, it is possible to exceed the "Maximum Licensable Core Power Rating" by overclocking or modifying the CPU. However, this can void the manufacturer's warranty and may cause damage to the CPU and other components. It is generally not recommended to exceed this rating.

How does the "Maximum Licensable Core Power Rating" differ from the "Maximum Power Consumption"?

The "Maximum Licensable Core Power Rating" is the maximum power that the CPU is licensed to use, while the "Maximum Power Consumption" is the actual amount of power that the CPU can consume under certain conditions. The two may not always be the same, as the "Maximum Power Consumption" can vary depending on the workload and other factors.

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