EXCEL participates in NEI’s Accident Tolerant Fuel (ATF) Working Group and in the ATF Licensing Task Force. The large-scale deployment of ATF, along with higher enrichment and burnup limits could result in significant improvements in Light Water Reactor (LWR) fuel performance. These performance improvements could make much longer fuel cycles (30+ months) viable for both PWRs and BWRs in the U.S. In addition, the significant impacts on the units’ Safety Analyses would mean a significant increase in the number licensing and Technical Specifications that would need to be made. EXCEL is recognized as the premier supplier of licensing, regulatory compliance, and Technical Specifications (TS) services, and has extensive experience in successful negotiation regarding licensing and TS issues.
ATF presents new and unique technical issues that may not be readily addressed with the current guidance, review plans, and regulatory criteria for zirconium/UO2based nuclear fuel. EXCEL is ready to support clients with innovative solutions and strategic assistance to implement the technology, licensing, and process changes needed, helping our clients achieve their business goals.
