Enhancement and comprehensive testing of interlock protection systems of high heat flux test facility at IPR

This paper introduces the safety and protection measures implemented in the High Heat Flux Test Facility (HHFTF). The interlock system has been enhanced and integrated into HHFTF to ensure the protection of the facility and the safety of personnel, thereby mitigating risks during operations. The primary purpose of these interlocks is to secure the entire facility under well-defined conditions to prevent accidents.

The safety and interlock protection system constitute integral components of HHFTF's overall control system, providing the capability to manage various subsystems, many of these systems are operated reliably close to their performance limits in order to achieve the desired goals. The overall safety, interlock protection and the control system encompasses both hardware components and software, employing Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), along with wired logic based on relays and special logic cards. Three different types of architecture have been developed: (1) Slow Architecture based on PLCs, for functions where response time of longer than 20 ms is adequate; (2) Fast Architecture based on FPGAs, for functions requiring fast response time beyond the capabilities of the PLC; and (3) Hardwired Architecture for critical functions.

The paper showcases the successful testing and outcomes of an enhanced interlock protection system, encompassing both software and critical hardwired interlocks, within the HHFTF. Key parameters monitored include the maximum allowable job threshold temperature, flow rates (for coolant loss detection), and chamber pressure. Activation times of interlocks were observed within a range from 100 microseconds to 116 milliseconds.