AREVA and AEG Power Solutions have jointly developed and qualified Profitec SN1, a new battery-charging rectifier which ensures the continuous availability of the internal power supply of the key parts of nuclear power plants. Battery-charging rectifiers ensure that a sufficient power level of the batteries is maintained permanently for an uninterrupted supply of all safety-related systems.
Profitec SN1 relies exclusively on analog technology. Therefore, it responds more quickly and is more robust than comparable products. It also doesn't require a costly and time-consuming certification, as often needed for a software-controlled device.
In addition, the newly-developed rectifier reliably protects the connected safety systems against overvoltages, which can notably be initiated by power transients, and thus avoids possible damage to the supplied systems.
Rectifiers such as Profitec SN1 not only supply power to I and C systems and control equipment in nuclear power plants and other industrial installations; they also contribute to the uninterrupted power supply of switching devices, motors and actuators.
Philippe Samama, Executive Vice President of AREVA's Installed Base Business Unit, said: "New developments, such as the Profitec SN1, offer a clear added value to our customers due to their improved performance.
Continuously innovating, AREVA keeps its competitive edge and continues to support utilities in ensuring the highest safety of their nuclear fleet worldwide".
For decades, a huge number of battery-charging rectifiers have been installed in nuclear power plants and must now be replaced.
However, as the supply of components and spare parts is becoming increasingly difficult due to their long period of use, many operators decide to install new devices.
Not simply replacing older systems, Profitec SN1 allows utilities to further increase the safety level of their plant.
