[en] Considering the various health and safety related electrical equipments and control systems in the reprocessing plant, it is essential that the design of distribution network ensures safety and reliability of the highest order. On the basis of first hand experience gained during construction, operation and maintenance of the existing reprocessing plants, it has been possible to formulate a design criteria and a quality assurance programme for development of the distribution network. The paper deals with the following steps of development and construction of the distribution network : design criteria, design tools, technical specifications, and quality surveillance programmes. (author). 5 refs

[en] Electrical cable fire is a common problem in industries. 24% industrial fires are reported to have initiated from electrical circuits, in which about one third are said to be the cable fires. There have been a number of cases where the cable fires have not only caused huge material and financial losses, but have also resulted in loss of human lives. As most of the cables contain PVC insulation, sheaths etc., they also produce large amounts of gases, which are highly toxic. The problem is discussed in the context of Narora Atomic Power Station and other cases

[en] Fuel charging facility is another application of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) in fuel reprocessing plants, that involves automatic operation of fuel cask dolly, charging motor, pneumatic doors, clutches, clamps, stepper motors and rod pushers in a pre-determined sequence. Block diagram of ACF system is given for underlining the scope of control and interlocks requirements involved for automation of the fuel charging system has been provided for the purpose at KARP Plant, Kalpakkam

[en] The spent fuel elements from nuclear reactors are received and stored in the spent fuel pool for further cooling at the Reprocessing Plants. Since these fuel assemblies are highly radioactive, all operations such as unloading from the transport cask, storage and reloading into charging cask etc. are carried out under water by remote handling equipments. In order to execute these operations safely and efficiently, adequate illumination has to be maintained uniformly throughout the fuel pool which is achieved by underwater flood lights. In the existing instalations at Plutonium Plant, Trombay and PREFRE, imported under water fittings have been used. For KAPP Plant, an attempt has been made to develop these underwater flood lights indigenously. This is an effort to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. The other advantage of indigenisation is the shortening of delivery periods, lower costs, effective follow-up and an overall development of Indian industries. (author)