Application of a Digital Speed Governing System for Nuclear Emergency Diesel Generators

The advent of the microprocessor has revolutionized technology worldwide with digital (microprocessor based) systems found throughout industry. While digital systems have been used in nuclear safety-related applications, uniform methodology has not been followed, precipitating regulatory guidance. While acknowledging the advantages of digital technology, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has noted that potential failure modes not previously considered are introduced with its application. Adapting traditional supply methodology is necessary to address design and quality assurance issues related to the common mode failure potential of computer software and electromagnetic interference.

A participatory approach is described to apply a digital speed governing system to nuclear emergency diesel generators. This governing system is a proposed replacement for existing mechanical and analog electronic governing technology.