Assessment of the possibility of undetected progress of material damage in pressurised components - 3607R02583
BfS-RESFOR-26/09 urn:nbn:de:0221-2009111112
Abstract
The general aim of the project was to review the knowledge on the detectability and characterisation of flaws during in-service inspections on pressure-retaining components. For this purpose, the state of the art in science and technology relevant for the project was determined and the relevant operating experience was evaluated in a generic manner. On this basis, selected single events were analysed in depth regarding their relevant characteristics and their safety significance.
The findings on potential problems in the detection of flaws are presented in summary form. The issues “flaws in dissimilar-metal welds of pressure-retaining components” and “rapidly growing flaws on steam generator tubes“ found to be significant for German plants are discussed in detail with regard to relevant boundary conditions and the assurance of integrity of the components and component parts concerned. Finally, conclusions are derived for these two key issues for further development of the concepts for non-destructive tests during in-service inspections and assurance of component integrity.
