Home > Electronic Reading Room > Basic References > Glossary > Maximum dependable capacity (gross) Maximum dependable capacity (gross) In a nuclear power reactor, dependable main-unit gross generating capacity, winter or summer, whichever is smaller. The dependable capacity varies because the unit efficiency varies during the year due to temperature variations in cooling water. It is the gross electrical output as measured at the output terminals of the turbine generator during the most restrictive seasonal conditions (usually summer). |