INES-event
INES 2

SUB-COOLING OF THE REACTOR COOLANT SYSTEM DURING A TEST

A periodic test of the steam generator auxiliary feedwater system, combined with the presence of a steam valve which had failed to close fully, brought about a hence overrapid cooling of the reactor coolant system. The operator took immediate action to bring the reactor back to zero power and decided to inhibit the safety injection automatic triggering devices and the steam isolation devices, which he deemed to be useless in the circumstances. This incident was classified level 2 on the French severity scale owing to the failure to comply with the technical operating specifications and the inhibition of safeguard actions without sufficient justification.
(Please see press release.)

Location: PALUEL-2
Event date: Wed, 20-01-1993
Nuclear event report
Legenda & explanation