Heat exchanger cleaning at French nuclear plants

摘要

French nuclear power plant MSRs, particularly the oldest ones (Fessenheim and Bugey), are subject to the build-up of magnetite deposits, resulting from steam eroding the tube system. As deposits build up on the inner surfaces of the tubes, they impede flow, and increase the pressure drop between inlet and outlet of the MSR. In some cases, the pressure drop amount has been found to be near the maximum design criterion. This effect could result in equipment damage and loss of plant productivity. Consequently, the MSR must be cleaned periodically.