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Assessment and implementation of reactor vessel life extension

Conference · · Trans. Am. Nucl. Soc.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6928736
Recent studies have indicated that the reactor pressure vessel may be the limiting component with respect to plant life extension for many nuclear power plants. This paper discusses the approach utilized to assess the structural life of the Point Beach Units 1 and 2 reactor vessels and current results from the evaluation of the most cost-effective means for maintaining the option to extend that life by 20 yr beyond the normal license term. The key to extending Point Beach reactor vessel life centers on reducing neutron embrittlement such that the beltline weld properties remain within critical material and regulatory limits. A secondary consideration for reactor vessel life extension involves establishing a transient monitoring program to account for fatigue and fatigue crack growth. The transient monitoring program for fatigue includes other critical nuclear stream supply system components as well as the critical reactor vessel locations.
OSTI ID:
6928736
Report Number(s):
CONF-8711195-
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Trans. Am. Nucl. Soc.; (United States) Journal Volume: 55
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English