Steam Leaks

Question 1

Any steam leak will cause ?

Answer 1

Localised temp rise in vicinity of the leak initially

A gradual overall compartment temp rise

Localised humidity rise in vicinity of leak

Condensation on colder areas in vicinity of leak

Lagging becomes wet or soft in vicinity of leak

ATU drains fill with water more regularly

Personnel sweat more over time

Visual steam leak

Noise

Question 2

What do you do when you see a steam leak ?

Answer 2

Raise the alarm immediately by any means and escape compartment.

Question 3

In order to be able to effectively carry out the correct actions to deal with a steam leak the propulsion watch keepers need to know ?

Answer 3

A leak exists

The location of the leak ( more precise the better)

Question 4

Once a steam leak has been identified the watch keeper will ?

Answer 4

Attempt to isolate the leak locally if possible

Carry out controlled remote isolations IAW operating documentation

Carry out emergency remote isolations IAW EOPs if required

Question 5

In a major steam leak what are the MR teams priorities ?

Answer 5

Maintain plant safety

Safeguard personnel

Provide command with maximum propulsion avaliable

Provide command with the most effective machinery line up

Question 6

In the event of a steam leak what propulsion options exist ?

Answer 6

Double main engine drive if leak doesn’t effect propulsion

Single main engine drive if leak is isolated to one side

EPS if leak has caused loss of propulsion

Question 7

In the event of a steam leak the different effects on electrical supplies would be ?

Answer 7

Both TGs avaliable if leak doesn’t effect them

Leak is isolated to one side therefore only one TG avaliable resulting in power limitations

Steam leak causes a loss of both TGs so the sub will maintain electrical supplies using the battery and MSCs (command decide if DGs should be run)

Question 8

If the MR team cannot identify where the leak is what must they do ?

Answer 8

Isolate both sides of the steam system and scram the reactor to safeguard the plant

Question 9

Steam in the system is hot and pressurised so if it comes into contact with you it can cause ?

Answer 9

• scalding
• Serious damage to you
• Kill you

Question 10

Steam can kill by suffocation if you find yourself in a steam filled compartment you must be aware of ?

Answer 10

• steam can deprive you of oxygen
• You need to evacuate and stay low, as steam will rise
• If you are having difficulties breathing, locate and put on EBS and fleet out of compartment or alternatively use EEBD

Question 11

What to do if you hear steam escaping from a pipe ?

Answer 11

• raise the alarm ( don’t assume others have heard it )
• Think of your own safety and evacuate the compartment