Automated Control Systems Installed in Both Units of Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant

The installation of automated process control systems (APCS) has been completed in both units of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. In addition, the plant is introducing an Operator Information Support System (OISS) for the first time at a Rosatom-built nuclear power plant outside Russia. The advanced technology will help operators run the plant safely and efficiently and respond to emergencies.

The information was disclosed in a press release issued by the media wing of Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom on Tuesday, October 13. According to the press release, the automated control system supplied by Rosatom’s Automated Control Systems division, RASU, includes around 20,000 pieces of equipment across 43 systems. These will continuously monitor more than 7,000 parameters related to the plant’s operations, including reactor stability. The system is expected to improve the plant’s safety, reliability and overall efficiency.

Dr Zayedul Hasan, managing director of Nuclear Power Plant Company Bangladesh Limited, said the Operator Information Support System was one of the key components of the new technology. RASU developed the system using the digital twin technology of the power unit.

The OISS has already been integrated into the first unit and is playing a role in its start-up activities. It will be introduced in the second unit in phases. The system can analyse data from 360 process-related systems to identify potential deviations at an early stage. It will also use more than 80 guidelines to advise operators on taking timely decisions during emergencies.

Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev said, “The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant is not only one of the largest projects of cooperation between Russia and Bangladesh, but also a leading project in the use of modern automation and control technologies. This is the first time that an Operator Information Support System is being implemented at a Rosatom-built power plant abroad.”

He added that the technology would help the plant respond quickly to emergencies, reduce operating costs and support control room staff in making accurate decisions. The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant is being built with two Generation III+ VVER-1200 reactors. Rosatom’s engineering division, Atomstroyexport, is responsible for implementing the overall construction project.