Core power monitoring system based on fixed in-core instruments

ABB/Combustion Engineering has developed a Core Power Monitoring System based on fixed in-core detectors that can replace the traveling detector system used in many PWRs. The fixed system can provide benefits in four main categories: relaxation of Technical Specification constraints; improvement in plant operation and maintenance; increase in core power output, and reduction in fuel requirements. The system has been adapted to the Westinghouse plant design from the core monitoring systems which were installed and have been operating in C-E plants since the early 1970's. The system has been operational in the Ringhals-2 plant since 1987.