What not use a proportional relief valve?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the use of proportional relief valves in nuclear systems, highlighting the consensus within the nuclear industry that existing systems are preferable. Douglas E. True, president of ERIN Engineering, emphasizes the potential risks of rupture disks, particularly in scenarios where loss of electricity prevents valve closure, leading to permanent venting. The conversation also references historical use of pressure release valves in Idaho test reactors, raising questions about their current application and effectiveness, especially in light of the Fukushima disaster.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear engineering principles
  • Familiarity with pressure relief systems and their mechanisms
  • Knowledge of the Fukushima disaster and its implications
  • Awareness of historical nuclear reactor testing practices
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the design and function of rupture disks in nuclear applications
  • Explore the operational principles of pressure release valves
  • Investigate the safety protocols following the Fukushima disaster
  • Study advancements in nuclear venting technologies and their effectiveness
USEFUL FOR

Nuclear engineers, safety analysts, and professionals involved in reactor design and safety protocols will benefit from this discussion, particularly those focused on pressure management and disaster response in nuclear facilities.

tsutsuji
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There is this talk in the New York Times about venting valves :

But the consensus in the nuclear industry supports the existing systems. Douglas E. True, the president of ERIN Engineering and Research of Walnut Creek, Calif., said: “In some cases you can argue it might be better to have a rupture disk. In other cases, it would certainly be better to have a manually controlled system.” For example, he said, the disk is backed up by a valve that is normally in the open position. If the disk ruptured and there was no electricity, it might be impossible to close the valve, and the venting would be permanent.
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/19/science/earth/19nuke.html?partner=rss&emc=rss

What not use a proportional relief valve ?
 
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I Found the following comment :
John Neely Ft. Collins said:
I don't know what happened to pressure release valves. They are opened by excessive pressure and close themselves when the pressure drops. You will find them on your water heater and even simpler versions on a pressure cooker. They were used on the test loops at the Idaho test reactors in the late 60's and presumably still are.
(...)
I'm curious why they aren't used.
http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2011...eatens-to-blow-its-stack/?partner=rss&emc=rss

So am I.
 
Very interesting article Tsutsuji, thanks!

All this venting subject is totally unclear in this Fukushima disaster, obviously it's not the primary cause of the disaster but it revealed that a lot of things didn't work as expected ALSO in this department... which ended up making things worse i think.

We will need time and torough expertise to clarify what really happened...