April - June 2001 Contents Highlight

Armenia Bulgaria Czech Republic Hungary

Kazakhstan Lithuania Russia Slovakia

Ukraine United States Cross-Cutting Activities Planned Activities

Russia

A PNNL technical specialist traveled to Moscow in mid-May for a meeting regarding the Russian reliability database (RRDB) project. The meeting was held with the Russian Research Institute for Nuclear Power Plant Operations, the RRDB contractor, to review deliverables provided under previous contracts. The review focused on Version 1 of the RRDB and its associated unified classifier system for components and component failures, and the computer specifications for the three pilot plants (Kola, Kursk, and Balakovo nuclear plants). Following the review both activities were found to be acceptable and plans were made for moving forward with the pilot-plant portion of the project, as well as with other NNSA-funded RRDB activities. (Grigory Trosman, NNSA, 301-903-3581; Tye Blackburn, PNNL, 509-372-4092)

Novovoronezh and Bilibino staff trained in use of infrared technology

In June, technical specialists from PNNL and the U.S. firm Snell Infrared traveled to the Novovoronezh Nuclear Power Plant to train technical staff from Novovoronezh and Bilibino nuclear plants in the use of infrared cameras and in infrared technology. A total of nine staff members from Novovoronezh and one from Bilibino attended the weeklong training class. Overviews of the infrared camera and its operation, as well as infrared technology fundamentals, were provided. The infrared fundamental training provided the attendees a knowledge base to understand camera operation and correctly analyze the infrared images obtained. Additional hands-on training was conducted in the field where all class attendees had an opportunity to practice camera and survey skills. The images captured were then reviewed and critiqued in the classroom. In addition, training was provided on the use and operation of infrared analytical software. A follow-up visit is recommended within the next year to evaluate progress and provide extended instruction on camera use and program development. (Grigory Trosman, NNSA, 301-903-3581; Ray Pugh, PNNL, 509-372-4076)