Canada-based L-3 MAPPS is to upgrade the full-scope operator training simulator at unit 2 of the US Fermi NPP in Michigan under contracts signed with operator DTE Energy. Fermi 2 is a 1,198MWe General Electric boiling water reactor that started operating in 1985.
The simulator's plant models will be updated to account for FLEX modification. The "diverse and flexible coping capability" (or FLEX) strategy was an industry initiative announced in February 2012 to implement the NRC's Fukushima task force recommendations. The FLEX update on the simulator includes the addition of an alternative source of cooling water and an external compressor to drive the non-interruptible air supply system. The simulator's off-gas control system will also be modified to reflect updates performed at the plant.
The simulator's audio-visual system – which includes analogue cameras and microphones – will be replaced with digital equipment. The audio-visual system is used to monitor and record operators in the full-scope simulator control room environment during training and for instructors to debrief trainees following training sessions. A separate contract covers the supply of a classroom simulator with three bays, each equipped with four large touchscreen monitors to display and operate enhanced virtual panel graphics of the simulated control room. The projects are scheduled to be completed in early 2017.
L-3 performed a comprehensive refurbishment of the Fermi 2 simulator's computers, instructor stations and simulation models in September 2006. Under a contract awarded in 2012, the company updated all of the simulation computers to the latest generation, as well as migrating the models and simulator maintenance tools from the previous generation of its software to its newer Orchid simulation environment. L-3 also provided DTE Energy with an additional simulator to train staff on emergency diesel generator operations.
