Influence of Thermal Aging on the Combustion Characteristics of Cables in Nuclear Power Plants

In this study, the combustion characteristics and emission of toxic gases a non-class 1E cable in nuclear power plant were investigated with respect to aging period. A thermal accelerated method was applied using Arrhenius equation activation energy cables periods set zero, 10, 20, 30 40 years old by considering lifetime plant. According ISO 5660-1 19702, cone calorimeter Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy test performed analyze toxicity. addition, scanning electron microscopy an dispersive X-ray spectrometer used examine change surface sheath insulation according periods. To compare quantitative fire risks at early period, performance index (FPI) growth (FGI) are derived from results ignition time, peak heat release rate (PHRR) time PHRR (tPHRR). When comparing FPI FGI, decreased as period increased, which means that may be alleviated through devolatilization both cables. However, when mass loss, represent risk mid late intensity severity increased The coincided obtained rate, confirms toxicity non-aged is higher than aged From results, it can concluded significantly affects gas. Therefore, degradation should considered setting up reinforced safety codes standards for planning proper operation procedures plants.