THERESA test facility passes TÜV approval

As part of the “pre-commissioning inspection” (PVI), the THERESA test facility at the Zittau Power Plant Laboratory recently underwent acceptance testing by the authorized inspection agency (TÜV-Süd). The tests included the electrical wiring of the safety sensors and actuators, the installation and process-related wiring of the components, as well as the system’s transition to a safe state when certain limits for the measured variables—temperature, pressure, and level—were exceeded.

In addition to the electronic (active) safety systems, the mechanical (passive) systems—such as safety valves—were tested by intentionally triggering them. All tests were successfully completed. This means that nothing now stands in the way of official trial operation.

The PVI had already been preceded by the preparation of numerous regulatory documents in collaboration with the authorized supervisory body during the plant’s planning phase.

The nature of the facility as a prototype test plant posed particular challenges for the regulatory oversight authority and the project team led by Prof. Kratzsch, as the standardized procedures for the approval of commercial power plants were not applicable in all cases to the test plant.

By the time of the PVI, the following documents had to be submitted to the regulatory authority: a risk analysis, shutdown matrix, circuit diagrams, an application for approval with a classification of the plant components, an operating manual, documentation of pressure tests, as well as manufacturer’s declarations and declarations of conformity for the plant components and safety devices. Last but not least, Mr. Klette and Mr. Braun had to successfully complete their training as boiler operators. The authority then issued a permit for the operation of the plant, which was finalized with the successful PVI.

The extensive preparations and coordination with the regulatory agency for the plant’s approval have thus paid off, and the THERESA pilot plant can now begin regular test operations.