Important systems and their functions in the MARIA reactor

A large nuclear facility such as the MARIA reactor requires a number of systems to work in order to operate it safely. Below is a brief listing of these systems and their functions:

Ventilation system

This system provides a controlled release of air from the reactor facilities to the environment. This release occurs through a 60m high chimney. Under normal conditions, some radioactive gases are released from the reactor (over 95% is 41Ar, a product of air activation). Under emergency conditions, releases of other radioactive gases and aerosols, such as gaseous fission products, may occur. In this case, the air is subjected to filtration.

Safety system

Includes emergency reactor shutdown, so-called safety interlocks (interlocking of reactor start-up and power ramp-up), signalling, emergency core flooding system.

Control, protection and monitoring system

Reactor control, safety and technological control system apparatus. The system ensures the correct operation of all reactor controls and safeguards and the collection of data on the course of physical and technological processes in the reactor. The main components of the system are located in the reactor control room.

Power supply system

The power supply system is an extensive power circuit with multi-stage systems to ensure continuity of power supply under normal and emergency conditions.

Storage and transport

Storage and transport of fresh and spent nuclear fuel.

Sewage systems

Low- and medium-level sewage systems at the reactor facility and the management of radioactive waste generated during reactor operation.

Dosimetric system

Includes both the monitoring of radiation fields and radiological hazards in the reactor facilities and the radiological protection of personnel. The system also includes assessments of the risks to the population resulting from the MARIA reactor operations.