On September 8 at 11:48 a.m., the N3 turbine generator of power unit No. 2 of the Armenian NPP, after the planned preventive maintenance of 2019 (PNV-2019), reached the energy level of capacity and was connected to the unified energy system of Armenia.
The radiation background in the station and its surrounding area is at the level corresponding to the normal operation of the power units and does not exceed the natural background values.
As part of planned preventive maintenance works, a large amount of work was done in the reactor workshop. Remedial repair of four passages of the reactor control and protection system (RCS) in the upper reactor block, modernization of the reactor control and protection system (RCS) (replacement of electrical equipment), modernization of the sprinkler system ensuring the integrity of the reactor department building in emergency situations was carried out. The results of these works significantly increase the safety and reliability of power unit operation.
No less large-scale works on power generation systems (in the garage) have been carried out and are planned to be carried out. The modernization works of turbine No. 3, which started last year, have been completed. These works will complete the modernization of engine room equipment in the turbine workshop, as a result of which a significant increase in the output power of the power unit (approximately 10%) is expected at the expense of the useful operation factor.
It should be noted that the successful completion of these huge plans became possible only due to the clear organization of the entire process and the goal-orientedness of the staff of the Armenian NPP to achieve the final result, as well as, what is no less important, due to mutual understanding, healthy practical relations with the involved Russian organizations, which have been formed during several years of joint work.
The main contractor for the implementation of planned preventive works and equipment modernization of the Armenian NPP is the specialized company “<a href="https://time.news/rosatom-will-again-extend-the-period-of-operation-of-the-armenian-npp-2024-04-14-014627/" title="Rosatom will again extend the period of operation of the Armenian NPP
– 2024-04-14 01:46:27″>Rusatom Service“, which is part of the structure of the state corporation ”Rosatom”.
The main goals of the life extension program of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian NPP are the restoration of resources and the extension of the plant’s operation up to 10 years, increasing the level of safety and efficiency of the nuclear plant. All works under the project will be completed by the end of 2021.
The Armenian NPP is the only nuclear power plant in the region, the 2nd power unit is in operation, which provides about 40% of the electricity consumed in Armenia.
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Expert on Armenian NPP Modernization
Editor: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. As the editor of Time.news, I’m excited to discuss the recent advancements at the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant. To help us understand the significance of these developments, we have Dr. Aram Hakobyan, a leading expert in nuclear energy safety and technology. Welcome, Dr. Hakobyan!
Dr. Hakobyan: Good morning! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. On September 8, the N3 turbine generator of power unit No. 2 reached its energy capacity level after maintenance work that began in 2019. Can you explain the importance of this achievement for the Armenian energy sector?
Dr. Hakobyan: Absolutely! This milestone is crucial for Armenia as it reinforces the stability of our energy grid. The successful re-connection of the N3 turbine generator not only contributes to energy supply but also reflects the efficiency of the preventive maintenance process that had been meticulously planned since 2019. It demonstrates our ability to manage resources effectively while ensuring that we can meet electricity demands.
Editor: That’s fascinating! You mentioned preventive maintenance. Can you elaborate on the kind of work that went into this maintenance, particularly regarding the reactor control and protection systems?
Dr. Hakobyan: Certainly. The preventive maintenance included significant repairs and upgrades to the reactor control and protection systems—essentially the heart of safe reactor operation. For instance, the remedial repairs in the reactor control system ensure that both control and safety mechanisms function optimally. Upgrading the sprinkler system enhances the integrity of the reactor building during emergencies, a critical aspect of safety protocols.
Editor: Safety is, of course, of utmost importance in nuclear energy. With the modernization efforts in the turbine workshop, including the completion of work on turbine No. 3, what kind of performance improvements can we expect?
Dr. Hakobyan: The modernization of turbine No. 3 is expected to increase output power by approximately 10%, which is significant for improving efficiency levels. This increase comes from enhancing the useful operation factor, which means we can produce more energy with the same resources, ultimately leading to a more reliable power supply for Armenia.
Editor: It’s impressive how these upgrades contribute to overall energy efficiency. I also read that the radiation background around the plant is currently within normal operational levels. How do these maintenance activities influence radiation safety?
Dr. Hakobyan: The maintenance activities directly tie into enhancing safety protocols, which in turn keeps radiation levels stable. By conducting thorough preventative maintenance, we ensure that all systems—especially those that monitor and control radiation—are functioning well. The fact that radiation levels remain within natural background values is a testament to the effective safety measures we have in place.
Editor: That’s reassuring to hear. The successful implementation of these plans seems to be attributed to the organization’s efficiency and teamwork. Could you explain how staff engagement plays a role in such large-scale projects?
Dr. Hakobyan: Certainly! The engagement of the staff is critical. The successful execution of complex projects like these requires a clear organizational structure and strong communication. The personnel’s commitment and clarity of process can make a significant difference. When everyone is aligned with the project goals and understands their roles, it not only boosts morale but also ensures that challenges are met head-on.
Editor: Dr. Hakobyan, it’s been enlightening discussing these developments at the Armenian NPP. It’s clear that these upgrades will have lasting impacts on energy production and safety. Thank you for sharing your insights with us today!
Dr. Hakobyan: Thank you! It was my pleasure to discuss these important advancements.