Core damage frequency
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Core damage frequency or (CDF) is a Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA) estimating the frequency of design-base accidents that cause damage to the nuclear reactor core. Core damage is the worst thing that can happen to a nuclear reactor, as due to damage of this structure, the operator might loose control of the nuclear reaction, possibly leading to a meltdown.
An assessment of permanent or temporary changes in a nuclear power plant is performed to evaluate if such changes are within risk criteria. Risk measures, eg: Core damage frequency and Large Early Release Frequency (LERF) determines the risk criteria for such changes.
This risk analysis allows decision making of any changes within a nuclear power plant in accordance with legislation, safety margins and performance strategies.
In a study commissioned by the European Commission, the core damage frequency of reactors in Europe is estimated to be once in 20.000 reactor years (5*10-5/a[1]).
[edit] References
- ^ CE (2003) Environmentally harmful support measures in EU Member States, J6, p. 137
[edit] See also
- Large Early Release Frequency
- Failure rate
- Nuclear reactor
- Nuclear reaction
- Nuclear power
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