Safe Operating Envelope Development

Candesco staff have extensive experience in the establishment of the Safe Operating Envelope (or Tech Specs) for a diverse array of nuclear facilities

Candesco led the development of the Tech Specs for the special safety systems for Bruce A in support of the restart of Bruce A Units 3 and 4.

Candesco staff participated on a team led by Ontario Power Generation to develop the Tech Specs for several process systems, including the heat transport system and moderator system for the Darlington, Pickering A, Pickering B and Bruce B stations. Of particular challenge was the establishment of Tech Specs for the Pickering A moderator system, given its complex relationship with a number of other process systems and the special safety systems

Candesco staff participated on a team led by Atomic Energy of Canada in the development of the Tech Specs for the MAPLE (medical isotope) reactor. While this reactor is radically different from a power reactor, techniques established for the establishment of Tech Specs for CANDU reactors facilitated the establishment of Tech Specs for the MAPLE reactor

Developing Tech Specs requires the detailed knowledge of the analysis of the nuclear facility – in particular an understanding of the key parameters and the impact of variations in these key parameters. It also requires an in?depth understanding of the operation and design of the plant – in particular an understanding of the degree to which key parameters can vary during operation and the degree to which these can be monitored and controlled by operational staff. Safety can never be compromised. The establishment of effective Tech Specs is therefore a balance between maintaining safety at all times, and providing margins that permit the plant to operate effectively. Candesco has this expertise.