Topic: Nuclear Experts Explain Worst-Case Scenario at Fukushima Power Plant

[Clive]

The type of accident occurring now in Japan derives from a loss of offsite AC power and then a subsequent failure of emergency power on site. Engineers there are racing to restore AC power to prevent a core meltdown.

LINK

[Rik]

Can I come out from behind the sofa yet? 

[Simon]

It's looking decidedly dodgy. 

[sam]

No its going to be ok. They really do have a reasonable plan.

If people use this as anti-nuclear power stance I'm going to go crazy. Yes there was an issue, yes the loss of the generators were unexpected (and possibly ill placed given what could happen there) but they have followed vigorous procedures in place. They might re-think backup generators in earthquake zones though. Still if people want power they have to suck it up.

[Simon]

That's a relief!

[sam]

well maybe...   

anyway the wind would blow most over the ocean and towards west coast of canada... who cares?   

[Clive]

No its going to be ok. They really do have a reasonable plan.

If people use this as anti-nuclear power stance I'm going to go crazy. Yes there was an issue, yes the loss of the generators were unexpected (and possibly ill placed given what could happen there) but they have followed vigorous procedures in place. They might re-think backup generators in earthquake zones though. Still if people want power they have to suck it up.

Well said Sam.  It really is the only solution to our energy problems.

[Rik]

anyway the wind would blow most over the ocean and towards west coast of canada... who cares?   

Look on the bright side, Sam, with a bit of luck it would reach Sarah Palin first. 

[Simon]

Come home quick, Sam! 

[sam]

ah there by mountains in the way... :-)

[sam]

/ I doubt it would really carry that far. In comparison the cloud from Chernobyl really didn't have far to go.

[Simon]

Chernobyl happened to a much poorer country, with presumably much less in the way of protection against such an event.  Hopefully, the Japs have got it covered.  

[Clive]

I think the Japs have a far better safety record than the Russians. 

[Rik]

My nephew, who was to take up a year's research fellowship at Tokyo next wee, now finds himself unemployed. His parents are relieved, and I don't blame them.

[sam]

That's a shame - but well better that then going there. From what I hear it would not be a good time to move to Japan.