The IEEE 317 standard, developed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), describes the requirements for the design, construction, qualification, testing and assembly of electrical penetration assemblies in nuclear containment structures for stationary nuclear power generating stations. Requirements for external circuits connected to penetration assemblies are not covered by this standard. The standard also does not contain requirements for operation, maintenance or periodic testing after installation.
This standard provides criteria that facilitate the determination of design, construction, testing, qualification and installation characteristics of primary enclosures of nuclear facilities with respect to electrical penetration devices.
An electrical penetration assembly is an assembly of insulated electrical conductors, conductive seals, module seals, and aperture seals that provide a pressure barrier between the interior and exterior of the enclosure structure while allowing electrical conductors to pass through a single opening in the nuclear enclosure structure. The electrical penetration assembly includes terminal junction boxes, terminal blocks, connectors, and cable supports and splices designed and furnished as an integral part of the assembly. The requirements for the design, construction, qualification, testing and installation of electrical penetration assemblies in nuclear containment structures for stationary nuclear power generating stations are specified in the IEEE 317 standard.
Electrical penetrations allow the passage of any type of cable through the enclosure structure to maintain pressure boundary integrity in any operating condition (normal or accidental) while simultaneously maintaining the electrical continuity of the circuits.
Electrical penetration assemblies perform important safety-related functions in nuclear power plants, including pressure holding and electrical performance. Because these assemblies are safety-related, they must comply with nuclear power generation station safety standards. Electric penetration devices have been very reliable in nuclear power plants, although many important quality problems have arisen. In nuclear power plant safety related applications, the performance of these assemblies, especially under design-based accident conditions, depends on the seals and interfaces.
Among the numerous tests, measurements, analyses, and evaluations our organization provides for businesses in various sectors, we also offer testing services for electrical penetration groups in containment structures for nuclear power plants, in accordance with the IEEE 317 standard, thanks to our trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment.
To get an appointment, to get more detailed information or to request an evaluation, you can ask us to fill in our form and reach you.
