Invensys Process Systems recently completed a fast-track controls upgrade at Energy Northwest's Columbia Generating Station, a 1,150-megawatt BWR (boiling water reactor) nuclear power plant near Richland, Washington. Invensys supplied a Triconex TMR (triple-modular redundant) Tricon turbomachinery control system for integrated turbine protection and reactor pressure control.
In a congratulatory letter recognizing the effort, W. Scott Oxenford, vice president, Technical Services for Energy Northwest said, "Our Digital Electro-hydraulic (DEH) Pressure Control/Turbine Control Upgrade was successfully installed, and it supported Columbia Generating Station (CGS) power ascension in a world-class manner."
Regarding the fast-track completion, Mr. Oxenford said, "Most remarkable is the timeline of design and implementation. In March 2006 we issued the Limited Notice to Proceed to Invensys and had our initial on-site kick-off meeting with all present. In approximately 10 months the system was installed in the simulator to support two cycles of operator training. Six months later, the system is operating with precision."
The Tricon TMR system is also utilized for an all new turbine trip digital control scheme, including lube oil, thrust, vacuum and overspeed. The new Tricon digital systems replace older technology controls, which has greatly improved reliability.
