Olkiluoto 3 surge line vibration is resolved

23.5.2019

​ The cooling circuit’s pressurizer surge line vibration detected in hot functional testing of OL3 EPR plant unit in the first half of 2018 will be eliminated by liquid absorbers. The material used in absorbers is bitumen which has been approved by the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Authority (STUK).

Bitumen’s behaviour has been studied by a series of tests in Lappeenranta–Lahti University of Technology LUT. Areva has also conducted tests by its research equipment. Based on the research performed STUK has approved the use of bitumen as absorber material.

Installation of absorbers has been started and will be completed during spring. STUK will audit the installed structures before the loading of nuclear fuel.