Summary

As a Mechanical Design Engineer Intern at Constellation Energy's Clinton Clean Energy Center, I had the opportunity to contribute to the renewal of the station's Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) License, ensuring its operation for an additional 20 years.

This case study highlights my involvement in this crucial project as a Mechanical Design Engineer Intern during the summers of 2023 and 2024. I performed mechanical analysis and calculations vital to the station’s long-term viability. My internship is ongoing during the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 semesters.

This experience not only refined my technical skills in mechanical engineering but also deepened my understanding of the critical role that nuclear energy plays in addressing the climate crisis. Nuclear power is a pillar of carbon-free electricity generation in an era where clean, reliable energy is critical for a sustainable future. I am proud to have contributed to a project that ensures a sustainable and reliable energy source for future generations.

Situation

Constellation Energy, the largest producer of carbon-free energy in the United States, was working to renew the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) License for its Clinton Clean Energy Center. This renewal extends the station's operational life by 20 years, providing enough electricity to power 800,000 homes through 2047. Given the critical role of the Clinton facility in Illinois’ clean energy landscape, ensuring the station’s mechanical integrity is essential. My Mechanical Design Engineer Intern role placed me at the heart of this high-stakes project, where precision and accuracy were essential.

Task

As part of the engineering team, my primary responsibility was to support the license renewal process by conducting mechanical analysis and calculations essential for component durability assessments. I was tasked with calculating corrosion rates, determining the next serviceable inspection dates, and establishing end-of-life dates for key raw water piping systems. These calculations were critical for providing the necessary data for the NRC license renewal application, ensuring the station's continued safe and efficient operation.

Action

To address these responsibilities, I employed a systematic approach:

• Data Collection and Analysis: I began by gathering historical data on the materials and conditions of the raw water piping systems. This included reviewing past inspection reports and operational data to identify potential areas of concern.
• Mechanical Calculations: Using industry-standard formulas and methodologies, I calculated the corrosion rates for the piping systems. This involved considering factors such as water chemistry, temperature, and flow rates, which are critical in predicting material degradation over time.
• Corrosion Analysis & Lifecycle Projections: Based on the calculated corrosion rates, I determined the next serviceable inspection dates and projected end-of-life dates. This required careful analysis to ensure the predictions were accurate and aligned with the station's operational goals.
• Reporting and Collaboration: I regularly reported my findings to the internal team management, providing updates on project status, progress, and results. This collaboration ensured the mechanical integrity assessments were integrated into the broader license renewal application.

Result

The mechanical analysis and calculations I performed contributed to successfully submitting the NRC license renewal application for the Clinton Clean Energy Center. My work helped ensure that the station's raw water piping systems would continue to operate safely and efficiently, supporting the station’s ability to provide carbon-free electricity to 800,000 homes. The data I provided will also be instrumental in the facility's continued maintenance and inspection schedule, securing its role in Illinois’ clean energy future for the next two decades.

Project Skills

This internship allowed me to sharpen my skills, demonstrate my ability to handle complex engineering tasks, and contribute to significant projects in the energy sector.

Technical Skills

• Mechanical Analysis - Conducting in-depth mechanical analysis for component durability assessments.
• Corrosion Rate Calculations - Calculating corrosion rates using industry-standard formulas, considering factors such as water chemistry, temperature, and flow rates.
• Lifecycle Projections - Projecting end-of-life dates and next serviceable inspection dates for critical components.
• Data Collection and Analysis - Gathering and analyzing historical data from inspection reports and operational data.
• Use of Industry-Standard Methodologies - Applying industry-standard methodologies in mechanical engineering tasks.
• Nuclear Regulatory Compliance - Contributing to an NRC license renewal application through technical data and analysis.
• Engineering Reporting - Compiling and presenting technical reports for internal teams and management.
• Mechanical Integrity Assessments - Working closely with engineering teams to integrate mechanical integrity assessments into broader projects.

Professional Skills

• Project Management - Managing tasks related to the NRC license renewal application, ensuring timely and accurate completion.
• Technical Communication - Regularly updating and communicating project progress and findings to management and stakeholders.
• Attention to Detail - Ensuring precision and accuracy in mechanical calculations and lifecycle projections.
• Problem-Solving - Addressing potential areas of concern in mechanical systems through systematic analysis and solutions.
• Team Collaboration - Collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals.
• Sustainability Mindset - Understanding the importance of nuclear energy in supporting a clean and sustainable energy future.