TEPCO improves circulation cooling system

The operator of the troubled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant said the reactor cooling system is now fully recycling its water, NHK World Radio Japan reported Sunday. Tokyo Electric Power Company said the system no longer requires fresh water input, and no contaminated water is being released. Previously, the system required 2 to 3 tons of fresh water per hour. Water recycling resumed on Saturday evening after being suspended while the plant's operator installed stronger piping to prevent leaks. Tokyo Electric Power Company had switched off the plant's cooling system for a day and a half after a series of problems. The operation started a week ago, but was twice halted because of leaks. A water-decontamination device in the system also had to be shut down due to human error. TEPCO cited a lack of preparation due to the speed of installing the system, which consists of Japanese and foreign devices. The utility has set a target of July 17th to complete the first stage of its plan to bring the facility under control.