What is BS IEC 62385 – Safety system instrument channels of NPPs about?
BS IEC 62385 is an International Standard that discusses instrumentation and control important to safety of nuclear power plants (NPPs). The purpose of BS IEC 62385 is to define the requirements for demonstrating acceptable performance of safety system instrument channels through response time testing, calibration verification, and other means.
BS IEC 62385 describes test methods for ensuring that safety system instrument channels in nuclear power plants comply with specifications for accuracy, response time and other performance characteristics.
BS IEC 62385 applies to those instruments whose primary sensors measure temperature, pressure, differential pressure, liquid level, flow and neutron flux. It focuses on the test methods that can be used remotely while the plant is on-line without a need to enter the reactor containment or physically access the instruments.
Who is BS IEC 62385 - Safety system instrument channels of NPPs for?
BS IEC 62385 on safety system instrument channels of NPPs is useful for:
- Nuclear power plants
- Atomic energy agencies
- Atomic research organizations
- Nuclear power plants electrical systems and equipment manufacturers
- Operators of NPP, systems evaluators, and licensors
- Nuclear safety authorities
- Regulatory authorities
Why should you use BS IEC 62385 - Safety system instrument channels of NPPs?
The methods described in BS IEC 62385 are used to check instrument calibration for accuracy and time response. It covers direct methods used to set calibration within required tolerances and indirect methods to indicate a need for a direct calibration. The use of the indirect methods allows for longer periods between the routine direct calibrations.
The main interests to benefit from BS IEC 62385 are nuclear utilities that use online performance testing, suppliers who develop and install such systems, and regulatory authorities seeking documented industry consensus on successful practices.
BS IEC 62385 can be beneficial in providing awareness of methods and practices considered appropriate by IEC experts and from the cost savings associated with the standardization of methods and practices.
Compliance with BS IEC 62385 methods for assessing the performance of safety of I&C systems and equipment, can help you improve the performance and efficiency of safety system instrument channels, as well as providing a long service life for safety system instrument channels.