L-3 MAPPS to Modify Koeberg Simulator Software Architecture
03 June 2008
L-3 MAPPS announced today that it has obtained an order from Eskom Holdings Limited to modify the Koeberg operator training simulator to support the interface of new OPC XML-compliant devices via Ethernet. In recent years, the OPC XML specification has gained increasing support in the field of industrial automation. With new applications in the power generation industry, OPC XML could soon play a major role in the communication interfaces of the future.
As part of ongoing upgrades at Koeberg Power Station, Eskom is replacing the rod control display system with Siemens MP277 touch-screen flat-panel displays configured as OPC hosts. To accommodate the inclusion of identical flat-panel displays on the simulator, Eskom has engaged L-3 MAPPS to configure the simulator with OPC XML connectivity.
L-3 MAPPS completed a previous upgrade on the Koeberg simulator in May 2004, which involved updating the simulation server and replacing the reactor, reactor coolant system, reactor coolant pump, pressurizer, pressurizer relief tank and steam generator models.
Eskom Holdings generates, transports and distributes approximately 95 percent of South Africa’s electricity—making up 60 percent of the total electricity consumed on the African continent. Eskom is the world’s eleventh-largest power utility in terms of generating capacity, ranks ninth in terms of sales, and boasts the world's largest dry-cooling power station. Koeberg Power Station is the only nuclear power station on the African continent.
It is situated at Duynefontein, 30 km. northwest of Cape Town in South Africa on the Atlantic coast. Koeberg, with two pressurized water reactor units that supply 1,800 megawatts, ensures a reliable supply of electricity to the Western Cape, one of the fastest growing regions in South Africa. It has operated safely and efficiently for more than 21 years and has a further active life of 20 to 30 years.
