General Electric Systems Technology Manual

Chapter 2.3

Control Rod Drive System

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

2.3 CONTROL ROD DRIVE SYSTEM ........................................................................... 1

2.3.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................... 2

2.3.2 System Description.............................................................................................. 2

2.3.3 Component Description ....................................................................................... 3

2.3.3.1 Water Sources ............................................................................................. 3
2.3.3.2 CRD Pumps and Related Components ....................................................... 4
2.3.3.3 Drive Water Filters and Strainers ................................................................ 4
2.3.3.4 Reactor Recirculation and RWCU Pump Cooling ........................................ 4
2.3.3.5 Flow Control Station .................................................................................... 4
2.3.3.6 Drive Water Pressure Control Station ......................................................... 5
2.3.3.7 Charging Water Header............................................................................... 6
2.3.3.8 Exhaust Water Header ................................................................................ 6
2.3.3.9 Hydraulic Control Units ................................................................................ 7
2.3.3.10 Scram Discharge Volume ............................................................................ 8
2.3.3.11 Control Rod Drive Mechanism..................................................................... 9
2.3.3.12 Position Indicating Probe ........................................................................... 12

2.3.4 System Features ............................................................................................... 12

2.3.4.1 Normal System Operation ......................................................................... 12
2.3.4.2 Scram Operation ....................................................................................... 13
2.3.4.3 Drifting Control Rod ................................................................................... 15
2.3.4.4 Uncoupled Control Rod ............................................................................. 15

2.3.5 System Interfaces .............................................................................................. 15

2.3.6 Summary ........................................................................................................... 16

LIST OF TABLES

2.3-1 Control Rod Position Indication .................................................................... 19

Rev 09/11 2.3-i USNRC HRTD

 LIST OF FIGURES

2.3-1 Control Rod Drive Hydraulic System

2.3-2 Hydraulic Control Unit
2.3-3 Scram Discharge Volume
2.3-4 CRDM
2.3-5 Enlarged Cutaway of Lower CRD
2.3-6 Control Rod Velocity Limiter and Coupling Mechanism
2.3-7 Control Rod Position Indication
2.3-8 Control Rod Drive Hydraulic System Insert Operation
2.3-9 CRDM Operation (Insert)
2.3-10 Control Rod Drive Hydraulic System Withdraw Operation
2.3-11 CRDM Operation (Withdraw)
2.3-12 Control Rod Drive Hydraulic System Reactor Scram
2.3-13 CRDM Operation (Scram)
2.3-14 Scram Pilot Air Header
2.3-15 Scram Time vs. Reactor Pressure

Rev 09/11 2.3-ii USNRC HRTD

2.3 CONTROL ROD DRIVE SYSTEM

Learning Objectives:

1. Recognize the purposes of the control rod drive (CRD) system.

2. Recognize the function and operation of the following:

a. Strainers and filters
b. CRD pumps
c. Reactor recirculation pumps purge and cooling
d. Reactor water cleanup (RWCU) pumps purge and cooling
e. Flow control station
f. Drive water pressure control station
g. Charging water header
h. Exhaust water header
i. Hydraulic control units (HCUs)
j. Directional control valves
k. Scram valves
l. Scram accumulator
m. Scram discharge volume

3. Recognize the function and operation of the following control rod drive (CRD)
mechanism components:
a. Outer tube and inner cylinder
b. Collet assembly
c. Index tube
d. Drive piston
e. Control rod drive coupling device (SPUD)
f. Piston tube
g. Position indicating probe

4. Recognize the following CRD system flow paths:

a. Cooling and purge flow
b. Accumulator charging flow
c. Withdrawal flow
d. Insertion flow
e. Scram flow
f. Settle flow

5. Recognize the purpose and function of the following CRDM components as they
relate to coupling:
a. Blade socket
b. Spud
c. Lock plug

Rev 09/11 2.3-1 USNRC HRTD

6. Recognize the indications of:
a. a drifting control rod
b. an uncoupled control rod

7. Recognize how the Control Rod Drive system interfaces with the following systems:
a. Condensate and Feedwater System (Section 2.6)
b. Deleted
c. Service and Instrument Air System (Section 11.6)
d. Fuel and Control Rods System (Section 2.2)
e. Reactor Manual Control System (Section 7.1)
f. Reactor Protection System (Section 7.3)
g. Recirculation System (Section 2.4)
h. Reactor Water Cleanup System (Section 2.8)

2.3.1 Introduction

The purposes of the control rod drive (CRD) System are to:

• make changes in core reactivity by positioning control rods in response to the

reactor manual control system (RMCS) signals.
• rapidly insert all control rods to shutdown the reactor in response to the reactor
protection system (RPS) signals.
• provide cooling water to recirculation and reactor water cleanup (RWCU) pump
seals

The functional classification of the CRD System is that of a safety related system
because of the automatic shutdown (scram) capability. Portions of the CRD System not
related to the scram function are classified as power generation equipment.

2.3.2 System Description

The CRD System (Figure 2.3-1) primarily consists of:

• Control rod drive mechanisms (CRDMs)
• CRD pumps
• Hydraulic control units (HCUs)
• Pressure and flow control valves
• Directional control valves
• Stabilizing valves
• Filters and Strainers

The CRD source water is normally taken from the condenser hotwell reject line. It can
also be taken from the condensate storage tank (CST). Normally one of the two CRD
pumps is in operation while the other pump is maintained in standby. A portion of the
pump discharge flow is diverted through a minimum flow bypass line to ensure pump

Rev 09/11 2.3-2 USNRC HRTD

cooling. A flow control station downstream of the pumps maintains a constant system
flow.

A drive water pressure control station is used to establish the pressure for normal CRD
movement. When no rod movement is underway about 47 gpm of CRD flow is used to
cool the CRD mechanisms. The CRD system also provides cooling water to the
recirculation system pump seals and to the RWCU pump seals.

Control rods are inserted, withdrawn and scrammed using hydraulic control units
(HCUs). Provisions for inserting, withdrawing, and scramming of each CRD mechanism
is accomplished with the use of an individual HCU for each control rod. Each HCU
(Figures 2.3-1 & 2.3-2) consists of:
• directional control valves
• scram valves
• a scram accumulator

2.3.3 Component Description

The major components of the CRD System are discussed in the following paragraphs
and illustrated in Figure 2.3-1.

2.3.3.1 Water Sources

The normal water supply to the CRD system is taken from the condensate system
demineralizer effluent, off the hot well reject line. The condensate filter/demineralizer
effluent provides high quality, low oxygen content water. This minimizes the problems
with intergranular stress corrosion cracking of the CRDM collet housing. When the
condensate and feedwater system is shutdown, the CST provides an alternate suction
source.

2.3.3.1.2 Suction Filters

Suction filters are provided at the inlet to each CRD pump. The filters remove foreign
particulates from the water prior to usage by the CRD pumps. Removing foreign
particulates protects the pump seals, impellers, and other pump internals from
excessive wear and damage.

2.3.3.1.3 Suction Bypass Strainer

The bypass strainer is a replaceable cartridge Y type strainer used when the normal
suction paths are not available. The bypass strainer protects the pumps from particles
when the suction filters are isolated.

Rev 09/11 2.3-3 USNRC HRTD

2.3.3.2 CRD Pumps and Related Components

The CRD System utilizes two fully redundant motor driven centrifugal pumps rated at
200 gpm. Only one pump is normally in service, providing approximately 47 gpm flow.
The remaining pump is in standby status and requires operator action to start.

The CRD pumps are cooled by the reactor building closed loop cooling water
(RBCLCW) system.

A minimum flow line is provided for each CRD pump upstream of the discharge stop
check valve. A restricting orifice limits the minimum flow to 20 gpm. The minimum flow
line returns water to the CST. The 20 gpm is sufficient to prevent pump damage if the
system flow is inadvertently stopped.

The pump motors receive power from the 4160V Emergency AC Power System.
• CRD Pump A from EDG “A” (Bus 101)
• CRD Pump B from EDG “B” (Bus 102)

2.3.3.3 Drive Water Filters and Strainers

Two drive water filters are installed in parallel downstream of the CRD pumps to remove
particulate prior to usage by the CRD system. The filters are redundant, with one filter
normally in service at a time. Drive water strainers downstream of the filters protect the
system should a filter cartridge fail.

2.3.3.4 Reactor Recirculation and RWCU Pump Cooling

The recirculation system pump seals are supplied with cool, clean water from the CRD
system to minimize the possibility of seal damage by foreign material. A flow of
approximately 4 gpm is routed from downstream of the drive water filters to each
recirculation pump.

The RWCU pumps are supplied with cool water from the CRD system to minimize seal
failure on initial starting of the RWCU system.

2.3.3.5 Flow Control Station

The flow control station consists of:

• a venturi flow element
• a transmitter
• a flow controller
• two air operated flow control valves (FCVs).

Only one of the two FCVs is in service at a time. A venturi flow element measures the
system flow and develops a signal sent to a locally mounted flow transmitter. The flow

Rev 09/11 2.3-4 USNRC HRTD

transmitter converts the hydraulic signal to an electrical signal. The electrical signal is
transmitted to a flow controller and flow indicator in the control room. The flow controller
can be operated in either the automatic or manual mode. In automatic operation the
flow controller positions the FCV to maintain system flow at 47 gpm. In manual
operation the operator adjusts flow using the manual pushbuttons on the flow controller.

The charging header connection is downstream of the flow element. Water supplied to
the charging header during a scram or accumulator charging creates a high flow signal.
This causes the flow control valve to automatically close and divert water to the
charging water header.

2.3.3.6 Drive Water Pressure Control Station

The drive/cooling water pressure control station consists of:

• a manually adjusted motor operated valve
• two sets of stabilizing valves
• a manual bypass valve

The pressure control valve is a manually adjusted motor operated valve. It is adjusted
from the control room to produce a drive water pressure of approximately 260 psig
above reactor pressure.

The cooling water flow passes through the drive water pressure control valve and the
stabilizing valves to the 137 hydraulic control units. From the HCU's the flow is sent to
the CRD mechanisms.

Two stabilizing valve assemblies are installed in parallel. Each assembly consists of
two solenoid operated valves. One of the two assemblies is in operation while the other
remains in standby. Selection of the operational assembly is made from the control
room via a pushbutton switch.

Both of the solenoid valves in the operating assembly are energized and open. Flow
through open stabilizing valves bypasses the drive water pressure control valve. The
flow through the insert stabilizing valves is set to correspond with the flow required for
control rod insertion (approximately 4 gpm). Flow through the withdraw stabilizing valve
corresponds to the flow required for withdrawal (approximately 2 gpm). Thus total flow
is 6 gpm through both valves with no rod movement.

The solenoid valves are interconnected with the RMCS. The insert stabilizing valve de-
energizes and closes when an insert signal is given to any control rod. The withdraw
stabilizing valve de-energizes and closes when a withdraw signal is given. The flow
through the stabilizing valves compensates for the flow through the drive water header.
Maintaining drive flow constant allows the drive water pressure to be stable during
control rod movement. This allows control rod speed to be maintained constant.

Rev 09/11 2.3-5 USNRC HRTD

A manual valve installed in parallel with the motor operated drive water pressure control
valve. This manual valve permits isolation and maintenance of the motor-operated
valve and/ or its controller.

2.3.3.7 Charging Water Header

The charging water header takes water from the main water header between the flow
element and the flow control valves. This water is then distributed to the water side of
the 137 scram accumulators. The 137 scram accumulators normally "float" at the
discharge pressure of the CRD pumps, approximately 1400 psig. During a scram
condition the scram accumulators supply the initial motive force to push the control rods
into the core. The resulting pressure decrease in the charging water header establishes
a high flow condition for the CRD pump. The flow sensing element upstream of the
charging water header detects this high flow and closes the flow control valve. This
maximizes flow through the charging water header.

Several orifices connected in series, limits the flow in the charging water header during
scram conditions to approximately 155 gpm. This feature coupled with the
automatically closing of the FCV protects the CRD pump from runout. Total pump flow
in a scram will be approximately 183 gpm broken down as follows:
• 155 gpm to the charging header
• 8 gpm to the recirculation seals
• 20 gpm minimum flow

Charging water header pressure is monitored by a pressure transmitter and displayed in

the control room.

2.3.3.8 Exhaust Water Header

The exhaust water header (Figure 2.3-1) provides a flow path for water expelled from
the control rod drive mechanism during CRDM movement.

Water from normal control rod movement is sent to the non-moving control rod drive
mechanisms via DCV 121. As a control rod is moved, the water is sent to the exhaust
header via DCV 121 or 120. When the exhaust header pressurizes DCV 121 for the
non moving control rods opens slightly. This relieves water from the exhaust header in
to the 136 control rods that are not moving.

During a scram water is discharged from the CRDM through the scram outlet valve to
the scram discharge volume. This creates a high differential pressure between the
exhaust water header and the scram discharge header. This will cause the 121
directional control valves in other HCUs to slightly unseat and depressurize the exhaust
header to well below drive water header pressure. This condition will cause a high
differential pressure between the drive and exhaust pressure. Subsequent rod
movement would have a large differential pressure across the CRDM drive piston that

Rev 09/11 2.3-6 USNRC HRTD

would create excessive rod speeds. To prevent this, two pressure equalizing relief
valves between the exhaust and cooling water header open to facilitate the rapid re-
pressurization of the exhaust water header. This ensures the operation of the CRDMs
at normal differential pressures after a scram signal is reset.

2.3.3.9 Hydraulic Control Units

There are 137 HCUs, one for each control rod drive mechanism. They are located in
the reactor building, divided into two approximately equal sets. Each HCU (Figure 2.3-
2) contains the hydraulic, electrical, and pneumatic equipment necessary to perform
three specific functions:
• store the hydraulic energy in the accumulators and route that energy through the
scram valves to insert the control rod
• route drive water through the solenoid operated directional control valves for normal
control rod movement
• provide the cooling water flow path to the control rod drive mechanism

2.3.3.9.1 Directional Control Valves

The purpose of the directional control valves (Figure 2.3-1 and 2.3-4) is to direct drive
and exhaust water to allow for control rod movement. The directional control valves are
solenoid operated valves that open and close on command from the RMCS. These
RMCS signals provide the proper valve sequencing and duration for normal control rod
movement.

2.3.3.9.2 Scram Valves

The purpose of the scram valves is to control the flow of water necessary for rapid
control rod insertion. The scram inlet and scram outlet valves are held in the closed
position during reactor operation. The scram valves open by removing the air pressure
from the valve operator and allowing spring force to push the valve open. When both
scram valves open, the position switches illuminate a blue scram light, associated with
that rod on the full core display in the main control room. The Reactor Protection system
(Section 7.3) controls the solenoid valves that open to remove the air pressure from the
scram valves.

2.3.3.9.3 Scram Accumulator

The scram accumulator (Figure 2.3-3) is a piston type water accumulator pressurized
with nitrogen. Each HCU has one scram accumulator. Scram accumulators provide an
independent source of stored energy to rapidly insert its associated control rod.

During normal operations the charging header pressure is approximately 1400 psig.
The charging water supply line to the scram accumulator has an in line check valve.

Rev 09/11 2.3-7 USNRC HRTD

This check valve helps maintain accumulator pressure for a limited time if charging
water header pressure is lost.

Upon initiation of a scram, the scram inlet and outlet valves open and the control rods
are rapidly inserted into the core. The water side of the accumulator contains twice the
amount of water needed to scram a control rod. A rupture disc in the instrument block
set at 2000 psig protects the accumulator from over pressure.

The accumulator provides annunciation in the control room for accumulator trouble. The
alarm is actuated if accumulator pressure is too low (940 psig) or if leakage (60cc) is
sensed beneath the accumulator. An illuminated orange lamp on the full core display is
provided for each control rod to indicate the affected accumulator(s). Visual inspection
of the accumulator and checking the local alarm indications is done to determine which
problem caused the alarm.

2.3.3.10 Scram Discharge Volume

There are two scram discharge volumes (Figures 2.3-1 &3) located on opposite sides of
the drywell. Each scram discharge volume consists of header piping connected to
receive exhaust water from the HCUs. The purpose of the scram discharge volume is
to receive and contain the exhaust water from the control rod drive mechanisms during
a reactor scram. The scram discharge volume is sized to receive and contain
approximately twice the volume of water discharged by the control rod drive
mechanisms during a scram.

During normal operation, the scram discharge volume is empty (drained) and vented.
Both the vent and drains are connected to the reactor building equipment drain tank
(RBEDT).

During scram conditions, the solenoid valves de-energize removing air pressure from
the vent and drain valve operators. This allows the valves to close under spring
pressure. When the vent and drain valves shut, scram discharge water accumulates in
the scram discharge volumes and instrument volumes. The vent and drain valves will
become part of the reactor coolant pressure boundary and remain shut until the scram
is reset.

Each instrument volume is equipped with multiple level instruments to monitor for water
accumulation: The first level switch alarms to inform the control room operator that the
instrument volume is filling from leakage of the scram outlet valves. If instrument
volume water level increases to half full a second level switch actuates. This sends a
rod withdraw block signal to the RMCS. Should water level continue to increase a
scram signal is sent to the RPS system. This scram ensures a reactor scram while the
discharge volume has sufficient capacity to accommodate the scram exhaust water.

Rev 09/11 2.3-8 USNRC HRTD

2.3.3.11 Control Rod Drive Mechanism

A control rod drive mechanism (CRDM) is a hydraulic locking piston assembly that uses
water as the operating fluid (Figures 2.3-4 & 2.3-6). The CRDMs are mounted on the
hemispherical bottom head of the reactor vessel. Each CRDM is directly coupled to its
control rod by a coupling assembly. Movement of the CRDM is accomplished by
applying drive water to one side of a piston and exhausting water from the other side.
The basic parts of a CRDM consist of:
• an outer tube
• an inner cylinder
• a collet locking mechanism
• a position indicating probe.

2.3.3.11.1 Outer Tube and Inner Cylinder

The CRDMs (Figures 2.3-4 and 2.3-5) are connected to the reactor bottom head by a
welded stub tube and flange assembly. A flange provides the means for mounting the
CRDM to the CRD housing flange and connecting external piping.

Drilled passages in the flange route the drive water, cooling water and charging water
utilized by the CRDM. When the CRDM is stationary, cooling water enters through the
insert line attached to the flange. Cooling water flows through a cooling water orifice up
between the thermal sleeve and outer tube and up past the seals in the drive piston.
The cooling water flow, approximately 0.25 - 0.34 gpm per drive, protects the various
graphitar seals from high temperatures.

On control rod insertion drive water enters and follows the same porting path as the
cooling water. The insert passages direct the driving water to the chamber below the
drive piston. The withdraw passages channel water from the annulus formed by the
outer tube and inner cylinder as well as the inside of the piston tube.

A ball check valve, located between the two water supply passages, ensures normal
drive insert water is channeled to the bottom of the drive piston. The ball check valve
also allows the reactor to supply a source of motive force to scram the CRDM, if normal
scram pressure falls below reactor pressure.

2.3.3.11.2 Collet Assembly

The collet assembly (Figure 2.3-4) is located in the collet housing in the upper annulus
section between the outer tube and inner cylinder. The collet assembly consists of a:
• collet piston
• collet spring
• collet fingers
• guide cap.

Rev 09/11 2.3-9 USNRC HRTD

The purpose of the collet assembly is to lock and hold the index tube at a selected
position for an indefinite period of time. Six collet fingers are attached to the piston. The
collet fingers engage the notches on the index tube. The guide cap provides a fixed
camming surface. This surface guides the collet fingers upward and away from the
index tube when pressure is applied under the collet piston.

A preload is placed on the collet piston by the collet spring. This preload must be
overcome before the piston can be moved upward. Additionally, the weight of the
control rod blade and CRDM moving parts must be overcome to allow the collet
assembly to be actuated.

A brief insert signal is applied to move the index tube upward to relieve the weight on
the collet fingers. This cams the collet fingers outward against the sloping lower surface
of an index tube locking notch. Immediately a withdraw signal is applied. This applies
pressure to the bottom of the collet piston overcoming the spring pressure. This will
open the collet fingers outward against the guide cap. When the withdraw signal is
removed spring pressure forces the collet piston assembly downward off the guide cap.
As the index tube settles downward the collet fingers snap into the next notch and lock
the CRDM in place.

Unlocking is not required for CRDM insertion. The collet fingers are forced out of the
locking notch as the index tube moves upward. The fingers grip the outside wall of the
index tube and snap into the next lower locking notch for single notch insertion.

For scram insertion, the fingers ratchet into and out of each locking notch as the index
tube moves upward to its inward travel limit. When scram pressure is removed, the
index tube settles back from the limit of travel and locks to hold the control rod in the
fully inserted position.

2.3.3.11.3 Index Tube

The stainless steel index tube (Figure 2.3-11) is threaded at the top to accept the
control rod coupling device (spud). The bottom of the index tube is threaded to the
drive piston. The circumference of the index tube contains 25 machined notches.
Twenty-four of the twenty-five notches are spaced at equal intervals of 6 inches.

The uppermost surfaces of these notches are machined to engage the collet fingers,
providing 24 increments (notches) at which a control rod may be positioned. The lower
surfaces of the locking notches are beveled such that the collet fingers are forced
outward during control rod insertion. The uppermost notch (fully withdrawn) on the
index tube does not provide a locking surface. It serves only as an indentation for the
collet fingers when the control rod is withdrawn to the backseat position.

When backseated, the control rod sits in the base of the control rod guide tube and the
index tube/collet fingers are not supporting the weight of the CRD blade. When the

Rev 09/11 2.3-10 USNRC HRTD

CRD is uncoupled from the CRDM, the index tube withdraws a small additional distance
until the drive piston reaches its lower end stop.

2.3.3.11.4 Drive Piston

The drive piston (Figure 2.3-4 and 2.3-7) provides the required surface area to apply
drive or scram water pressure to accomplish rod movement. The drive piston is
threaded to the lower end of the index tube and is contained within the annular space
between the inner cylinder and piston tube. Travel of the drive piston is limited by
positive end stops on both ends, with an additional hydraulic cushion provided at the
upper end by a series of buffer orifices in the piston tube.

The effective area under the drive piston is greater than the effective area above the
drive piston. This difference in piston areas provides for an insert force greater than a
withdraw force under all operating conditions. Because of this difference in area,
different flow rates for insertion and withdrawal of the CRDM are required. The required
flow rates are approximately 2 gpm for withdrawal and 4 gpm for insertion.

Embedded in the lower end of the drive piston is a permanent magnet used to trigger
position indicating reed switches that will be covered later in this chapter.

2.3.3.11.5 Control Rod Coupling Device (Spud)

The control rod coupling device is most frequently referred to as a “spud”. The spud is
threaded to the upper end of the movable index tube. The spud is a six-fingered
cylindrical male fitting that connects to the control rod female fitting below the velocity
limiter (Figure 2.3-6). A lock plug fits into the six-fingered spud to lock the spud and
control coupling.

Uncoupling of a CRDM from the control rod is accomplished from above or below the
core with the aid of special tools. Moving the lock plug upward allows the spud fingers
to be compressed. This allows removing the physical connection between the control
rod and the CRDM index tube.

2.3.3.11.6 Piston Tube

The piston tube (Figure 2.3-4) performs three functions:

• Channels water to or from the top of the drive piston.

• Provides a hydraulic buffer during control rod scram insertion.
• Supports the upper and lower limit drive piston stops.

During rod withdrawal, water from the withdraw annulus is forced through orifices to
move the drive piston downward. During normal rod insertion or scram, the flow is
reversed through these orifices. During a scram the upward travel of the drive piston

Rev 09/11 2.3-11 USNRC HRTD

closes off these orifices trapping water between the top of the drive piston and the
bottom of the stop piston. This water creates a buffer action, decreasing the rate of
drive piston travel as the upward movement closes off the orifices.

The stop piston is threaded to the top of the outer cylindrical section. It provides a seal
between reactor vessel pressure and the area above the drive piston. It also functions
as a positive end stop at the upper limit of the drive piston travel.

2.3.3.11.7 Indicator Tube

The indicator tube (Figure 2.3-4) forms the innermost cylinder wall of the CRDM and
forms the drywell to reactor vessel pressure boundary for the position indicating probe.

2.3.3.12 Position Indicating Probe

The position indicating probe (Figure 2.3-8) consists of a dry cylindrical tube sealed at
the top. This tube houses 53 position indicating reed switches and one thermocouple.
The reed switches are activated by the permanent magnet enclosed in the lower end of
the drive piston. When the magnet encircles a reed switch, the switch closes to provide
digital rod position information. This information is sent to the control room and to the
process computer. Even numbered readouts (from 00 to 48) are provided at each
latched drive position. Odd numbered readouts (from 01 to 47) are provided at the
midpoints between latched positions. Thus indication is provided for each 3 inches of
rod travel and whenever the CRD travel limits are reached. Table 2.3-1 provides the
relationship between CRD probe switches, CRD position, and display information.

2.3.4 System Features

A short discussion of system features and interfaces this system has with other plant
systems is given in the following paragraphs.

2.3.4.1 Normal System Operation

During normal power operation the CRD system is providing the following flow rates
• minimum flow for the pump (20 gpm)
• cooling water flow (47 gpm) to the 137 CRDM
• seal purge flow to the recirculation pump seals (8 gpm total)

The pumps maintain the drive header pressure at 260 psid and charging header
pressure at approximately 1400 psig.

Rod movement is accomplished through the RMCS and the directional control valves.
These direct drive water to and exhaust water from the CRDM.

To insert a control rod (Figures 2.3-8 & 9), the RMCS first signals Directional Control
Valves (DCVs) 121 and 123 to open. This places drive water pressure on the CRDM

Rev 09/11 2.3-12 USNRC HRTD

under piston area and vents the top of the drive piston to the exhaust water header.
The RMCS also signals the insert stabilizing valve to close, redirecting 4 gpm of cooling
water flow through DCV 123.

The exhaust water header is connected to DCVs 120 and 121 of all the CRDs. The
shut 121 DCVs on the non moving HCUs act as relief valves. When the exhaust water
header pressure increases exhaust water is routed to the above piston area of the non-
moving drives.

The CRDM being inserted now has approximately 260 psid across its drive piston, and
the control rod inserts into the core. The index tube moves upward so that the collect
fingers are just below the next lower index tube notch position. The RMCS then closes
DCVs 121 and 123, opens the insert stabilizing valve, and DCV 120. This vents the
under piston area allowing the drive to settle downward onto the collet fingers. The
water vented from the under piston area pressurizes the exhaust header and is relieved
through the DCV 121 valves. After a time period sufficient to allow the drive to settle on
the collet fingers RMCS closes the DCV 120.

Withdraw motion (Figures 2.3-10 & 11) is more complicated because of the latching
nature of the drive. The withdraw motion begins as an insert movement to lift the index
tube of the CRDM off the collet fingers. This also cams the collet fingers out as they
ride along the index tube. The RMCS then closes insert DCVs 121 & 123 and opens
the insert stabilizing valve. Then the withdraw DCVs 120 and 122 are opened and the
withdraw stabilizing valve is closed. DCV 122 valve opening applies pressure to the
collet piston moving it upward forcing open the collet fingers against the guide cap. The
drive is now moving out of the core. RMCS times the open condition of the withdraw
DCVs until the drive has moved downward just past the original latch then closes DCV
122. After a time period sufficient to allow the drive to settle on the collet fingers RMCS
closes the DCV 120.and the withdraw stabilizing valve is opened.

As on the insert movement, all water vented to the exhaust header is relieved to the
over piston area of non-moving drives via their 121 valves.

2.3.4.2 Scram Operation

RPS initiates CRD system scram operation (Figures 2.3-12, 2.3-13 and 2.3-14) upon
detection of a potentially unsafe condition. The controls and valves used for normal
CRDM movement are not required for the scram function. When a reactor scram is
initiated by the RPS the scram pilot air header is isolated and depressurized. Spring
pressure opens the inlet and outlet scram valves on each HCU and closes the scram
discharge volume vent and drain valves. Pressure from the scram accumulator is
applied to the area below the drive piston. The area above the piston piped to the scram
discharge volume headers. The large differential pressure applied to the drive piston
area drives the index tube and control rod rapidly in to the core. As the index tube
nears the top of its stroke, the drive piston seals close off the piston tube buffer holes.

Rev 09/11 2.3-13 USNRC HRTD

The number, size and spacing of the buffer holes in the CRD piston tube provide a
gradual deceleration of index tube movement. Bellville washers in the top of the
cylinder absorb the final inertia.

The scram discharge volume fills and pressurizes to reactor pressure within several
seconds. This is due to the water displaced from the above piston area and the flow of
water from the charging header. With the scram discharge volume vent and drain
valves closed the scram discharge volume becomes part of the reactor vessel.

In addition to the 137 sets of scram pilot solenoid valves there are two backup scram
solenoid valves. These valves are normally deenergized 125VDC valves. They
energize at the same time the 125VAC valves deenergize. The backup scram valves
control the air supply to the entire scram pilot air header. When energized the valves
reposition isolating and venting the header. If any individual scram pilot valve fails to
open venting of the scram air header should open them. This provides a redundant
means of venting the scram air header and causing rod insertion. The overall time to
insert the control rods will be longer as this method takes longer to vent the scram air
header. Either backup scram valve can perform this function.

Each CRDM requires approximately 3 gallons of water for a scram. The water side of
the scram accumulator holds approximately twice this volume. Thus the accumulator
provides an adequate capacity for each CRD to complete a scram stroke regardless of
reactor pressure. At high reactor pressures the accumulator provides the initial surge of
water. As the accumulator discharges the pressure at the CRD will decrease to below
reactor pressure. This causes the ball check valve (built into the CRDM) to shift its
position and admit reactor water under the drive piston. Reactor pressure will supply
the force required to complete the scram stroke.

In addition to both of the above methods used to vent the scram pilot header there is
another totally independent RPS system. This system is called the Alternate Rod
Insertion System (ARI) and it can isolate and depressurize the scram pilot air header.
ARI is a redundant reactivity control system required for all plants in accordance with
10CFR50. The system monitors reactor water level and pressure as trip inputs. The
equipment used (sensors, valves, power supplies etc.) for ARI are totally independent
from those used by RPS. When water level decreases to Level 2 (-38") or reactor
pressures increases to 1120 psig, the following actions occur:
• two 125 VDC solenoid valves in the scram pilot air header open
• four dump valves isolate and vent the scram air header

This will depressurize the scram air header, causing the insertion of all 137 control rods.
ARI can also be initiated manually by the reactor operator in the control room.

Three of the six ARI valves are powered from Div 1, 125VDC supply, and the other
three from Div 2, 125VDC supply.

Rev 09/11 2.3-14 USNRC HRTD

2.3.4.3 Drifting Control Rod

A drifting control rod is a rod moving without being commanded to move by the reactor
operator via the RMCS. When this occurs, a rod drift alarm is received in the control
room. This circuit is described in the RMCS chapter.

A control rod and index tube may drift out if the collet fingers have not properly engaged
in the notch of the index tube. A drift inward may be caused by a leaky inlet or outlet
scram valve or too high a cooling water pressure.

2.3.4.4 Uncoupled Control Rod

A control rod may be uncoupled due to either a failure to correctly couple it initially or
due to a mechanical coupling failure. The operator detects an uncoupled control rod by
attempting to withdraw it past the full out position. If the control rod drive mechanism is
withdrawn far enough to actuate the over travel reed switches, it is not coupled to the
drive mechanism. When the over travel reed switches are actuated they generate an
alarm in the control room.

2.3.5 System Interfaces

Interfaces the Control Rod Drive System has with other plant systems are discussed in
the following paragraphs.

Condensate and Feedwater System (Section 2.6)

The Condensate and Feedwater System reject line provides the preferred source of
high quality water for the CRD System.

Condensate Transfer and Storage System (Section 11.6)

The Condensate Transfer and Storage System provides a backup supply of high quality
water (the condensate storage tank) for the CRD System.

Station and Instrument Air System (Section 11.8)

Instrument air from the Service and Instrument Air System supplies high quality air to
the CRD System air operated components.

Control Rods and Fuel System (Section 2.2)

The control rods are positioned within the reactor core by the CRD System.

Rev 09/11 2.3-15 USNRC HRTD

Reactor Manual Control System (Section 7.1)

The RMCS controls the directional control valves (DCVs) to direct the hydraulic water
forces of the CRD System to cause control rod motion. The RMCS controls the CRD
System stabilizing valves to allow constant flow through the CRD System.

Reactor Protection System (Section 7.3)

The RPS provides signals to hold the scram valves shut. As long as the RPS is
energized, both the Inlet and outlet scram valves remain closed.

Recirculation System (Section 2.4)

The Recirculation System receives cool, clean water from the CRD System for
recirculation pump seal purge.

Reactor Water Cleanup System (Section 2.8)

The CRD system supplies cool, clean water to the reactor water cleanup pump seals for
initial system startup.

Emergency AC Power System (Section 9.2)

The Emergency AC Power System supplies power to the CRD pumps A and B.

2.3.6 Summary

Purposes:

1. To make changes in core reactivity by positioning control rods in response to RMCS

signals.

2. To rapidly insert all control rods to shutdown the reactor in response to RPS signals.

Control rods are inserted, withdrawn and scrammed using hydraulic control units
(HCUs). Provisions for inserting, withdrawing, and scramming of each CRD mechanism
is accomplished with the use of an individual HCU for each control rod. Each HCU
(Figures 2.3-1 & 2.3-2) consists of:
• directional control valves
• scram valves
• a scram accumulator

Rev 09/11 2.3-16 USNRC HRTD

 Table 2.3-1 Control Rod Position Indication

CRD Probe Inches From Full Rod Position Rod Position

Switch number Insert Readout Display

S51 - 1¼ Green Light*, No Over travel

readout beyond full in
S52 -⅜ Green Light* Normal full in,
latched
S00 0 00 Readout Normal full in,
latched
S01 3 01 Readout ** Half way
between 00 and
02
S02 6 02 Readout Latched at 02
S48 144 48 Readout Normal full out,
latched
S49 144 Red light* Normal full out,
latched
S50 146 Red light*, No Over travel
readout, beyond full out
Over travel
annunciator

* Individual Red and Green lights are provided for each rod on the P-603 vertical
section’s full core display. Red and green backlighting is also provided in the P-603’s
four rod display.

** All odd position readouts are displayed as “- -“ in the P-603’s four rod display.

Rev 09/11 2.3-17 USNRC HRTD

Rev 09/11 2.3-18 USNRC HRTD
Figure 2.3-1 Control Rod Drive Hydraulic System
 ISOLATION VALVE (EP 116) CHARGING WATER RISER
SCRAM VALVE PILOT AIR
ISOLATION VALVE (EP 102)
ISOLATION VALVE (EP 105) WITHDRAWAL RISER
EXHAUST WATER RISER
ISOLATION VALVE (EP 103)
DRIVE WATER RISER
ISOLATION VALVE (EP 101)
INSERT RISER SCRAM PILOT VALVE ASSEMBLY
(EP 117, 118)
ISOLATION VALVE (EP 104)
COOLING WATER RISER OUTLET SCRAM VALVE AND
ACTUATOR (EP 127)

ISOLATION VALVE (EP 112)

SCRAM DISCHARGE RISER

INLET SCRAM VALVE AND DIRECTIONAL CONTROL VALVE

ACTUATOR (EP 126) (EP 122) (WITHDRAW)

DIRECTIONAL CONTROL VALVE

DIRECTIONAL CONTROL VALVE (EP 123) (INSERT)
(EP 121) (INSERT)
WIRING TROUGH ASSEMBLY

MANIFOLD
SHUTOFF VALVE (EP 107)
DIRECTIONAL CONTROL VALVE WATER ACCUMULATOR DRAIN
(EP 120) (WITHDRAW AND SETTLE)

SCRAM ACCUMULATOR N2
CYLINDER (EP 128)
SCRAM WATER ACCUMULATOR
(EP 125)

ACCUMULATOR N2 PRESSURE
INDICATOR (EP 131)
FRAME
CARTRIDGE VALVE (EP 111)
ACCUMULATOR N2 CHARGING

ACCUMULATOR INSTRUMENTATION
ASSEMBLY

Figure 2.3-2 Hydraulic Control Unit

Figure 2.3-3 Scram Discharge Volume
 SPUD BOTTOM OF
REACTOR VESSEL

STOP PISTON GUIDE CAP

COLLET FINGERS COLLET SPRING

COLLET PISTON
PISTON TUBE

INDEX TUBE BUFFER ORIFICES

INNER CYLINDER HOUSING

OUTER TUBE

DRIVE PISTON

WITHDRAW INSERT
LINE LINE
COOLING
ORIFICE
BALL
CHECK
VALVE

REACTOR
PRESSURE
EXHAUST
DIRECTIONAL HEADER
CONTROL
VALVES
121 120

SCRAM SCRAM
OUTLET 122 123 INLET COOLING
VALVE VALVE WATER
DRIVE
WATER
SCRAM HEADER CHARGING
DISCHARGE WATER
VOLUME HEADER

Figure 2.3-4 CRDM

 PISTON TUBE
INDICATOR TUBE INNER TUBE
POSITION INDICATOR PROBE OUTER TUBE

HOUSING

INSERT PORT

COOLING WATER
ORIFICE

CYLINDER, TUBE,
& FLANGE

BALL CHECK
VALVE

WITHDRAW
PORT

PISTON TUBE

INDICATOR TUBE

O-RING,
PISTON TUBE CYLINDER, TUBE,
& FLANGE

RING FLANGE

POSITION INDICATOR PROBE

NUT,
PISTON TUBE

RECEPTACLE

PLUG

Figure 2.3-5 Enlarged Cutaway of Lower CRD

 CONTROL
ROD
ASSEMBLY
UNLOCKING
HANDLE
CONTROL ROD
VALVE DISC SEAT

LOCK PLUG

SPUD UNLOCKING TUBE

INDEX TUBE-DRIVE

ACTUATING SHAFT

VELOCITY
LIMITER

LOCK PLUG
RETURN SPRINGS
SOCKET

Figure 2.3-6 Control Rod Velocity Limiter and Coupling Mechanism

Figure 2.3-7 Control Rod Position Indication
Figure 2.3-8 Control Rod Drive Hydraulic System Insert Operation
 SPUD

BOTTOM OF
REACTOR VESSEL

STOP PISTON
HOUSING
COLLET FINGERS

PISTON TUBE COLLET SPRING

INDEX TUBE
COLLET PISTON
INNER CYLINDER

OUTER TUBE

DRIVE PISTON

WITHDRAW INSERT
LINE LINE

BALL
CHECK
VALVE

REACTOR
PRESSURE
(P R)

EXHAUST
HEADER

121 120

SCRAM SCRAM
OUTLET 122 123 INLET
VALVE VALVE
DRIVE
W ATER
HEADER
SCRAM
DISCHARGE CHARGING
VOLUME WATER
HEADER
Figure 2.3-9 CRDM Operation (Insert)
Figure 2.3-10 Control Rod Drive Hydraulic System Withdraw Operation
 SPUD
BOTTOM OF
REACTOR VESSEL

STOP PISTON
HOUSING
COLLET FINGERS
PISTON TUBE COLLET SPRING
INDEX TUBE
COLLET PISTON
INNER CYLINDER
OUTER TUBE

DRIVE PISTON

WITHDRA INSERT
W LINE
LINE
BALL
CHECK
VALVE

REACTOR
PRESSURE
(P R)

EXHAUST
HEADER

121 120

SCRAM SCRAM
OUTLET 122 123 INLET
VALVE VALVE
DRIVE CHARGING
WATER WATER
HEADER HEADER

Figure 2.3-11 CRDM Operation (Withdraw)

Figure 2.3-12 Control Rod Drive Hydraulic System Reactor Scram
 SPUD
BOTTOM OF
REACTOR VESSEL

STOP PISTON
HOUSING
COLLET FINGERS
COLLET SPRING
PISTON TUBE
COLLET PISTON
INDEX TUBE

INNER CYLINDER

OUTER TUBE

DRIVE PISTON

WITHDRAW INSERT
LINE LINE
BALL
CHECK
VALVE

REACTOR
PRESSURE
(PR)

EXHAUST
HEADER

121 120

SCRAM SCRAM
OUTLET 122 123 INLET
VALVE VALVE
DRIVE
WATER CHARGING
SCRAM HEADER WATER
DISCHARGE HEADER
VOLUME

Figure 2.3-13 CRDM Operation (Scram)

Figure 2.3-14 Scram Pilot Air Header
5.5

5.0

4.5
VESSEL PRESSURE ONLY
(ACCUMULATOR DISCHARGED)

4.0

3.5

ACCUMULATOR PRESSURE ONLY

(VESSEL PORTS PLUGGED)
(CHARGING WATER VALVED OUT)
3.0

2.5

TYPICAL DRIVE

2.0

1.5
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200

REACTOR VESSEL PRESSURE (psig)

Figure 2.3-15 Scram Time vs. Reactor Pressure