Preventing Nuclear Reactor Shutdowns with Full Exclusion Netting
Each year, Pickering Nuclear Facility faced costly reactor shutdowns. The culprit? Algae and debris clogging its cooling water intakes. That’s when Pacific Netting Products (PNP) stepped in.
The plant’s owner and engineer reached out for help. Together, we formed a team to tackle the issue. Our goal was simple: create a reliable, cost-saving barrier to keep algae and debris out.
Engineering a Reliable Barrier System
We designed and installed a high-tension netting system. This barrier stopped algae and floating debris from reaching the cooling water intakes. At every step, PNP focused on quality and safety. We followed detailed inspection and quality control procedures throughout the entire installation process.
More Than a Barrier: Environmental and Operational Benefits
Beyond simply blocking debris, the PNP system prevents the entrainment of fish in the cooling water intakes and deflects the beds of algae that seasonally occur, allowing the natural process to continue. As a result, the net supports the natural movement of aquatic life while maintaining the plant’s operational integrity. The installation has since led to a reduced risk of plant shutdowns. It provided substantial financial savings through decreased plant maintenance and increased production while protecting fish and the environment.
Ultimately, PNP delivered a sustainable, high-performance solution that enhanced plant reliability, reduced operational costs, and safeguarded local ecosystems. This project demonstrated the power of collaborative design and innovative engineering in solving complex, high-stakes challenges.
KEY FEATURES
- Built in 2007
- Expanded in 2009
- 2,000 ft long, 9-panel knotted Dyneema netting
- 3/4” x 3/4” and 1/2” x 1/2” net
- Provides debris control and fish exclusion
- Designed for single direction water flow
- velocities from 1.0 – 3.0 fps
- Seasonally deployed
- Meets fish screen criteria
