Plant Life Management Models For Long Term Operation Of Nuclear Power Plants

When nuclear power plants reach the end of their nominal design life, they undergo a special safety review and an ageing assessment of their essential structures, systems and components for the purpose of validating or renewing their licence to operate for terms beyond the service period originally intended. Three different plant life management models have been used to qualify these nuclear power plants to operate beyond their original design life. This publication presents a collection of sample licensing practices for long term operation among IAEA Member States. The various plant life management models used to obtain long term operation authorizations are described and comparisons drawn against the standard periodic safety review model. Lessons learned and warnings about possible complications and pitfalls are also described to minimize the licensing risk during operation and future long term operation applications. The main intention of this publication is to support nuclear power plant owners and operators planning an extension of plant operation beyond its original design life, but it also serves as a useful guide for those interested in procuring, from the beginning, the necessary tools to implement ageing management in their future plant with long term operation in mind.

"When nuclear power plants reach the end of their nominal design life, they undergo a special safety review and an ageing assessment of their essential structures, systems and components for the purpose of validating or renewing their licence to operate for terms beyond the service period originally intended. Three different plant life management models have been used to qualify these nuclear power plants to operate beyond their original design life. This publication presents a collection of sample licensing practices for long term operation among IAEA Member States. The various plant life management models used to obtain long term operation authorizations are described and comparisons drawn against the standard periodic safety review model. Lessons learned and warnings about possible complications and pitfalls are also described to minimize the licensing risk during operation and future long term operation applications. The main intention of this publication is to support nuclear power plant owners and operators planning an extension of plant operation beyond its original design life, but it also serves as a useful guide for those interested in procuring, from the beginning, the necessary tools to implement ageing management in their future plant with long term operation in mind."--Publisher's description.

On cover and title page: Nuclear development

Explains the general approach to plant life management (PLiM), details and defines the relationship between nuclear power plant maintenance and PLiM, assembles a list of good practices and formulates guidelines for ageing management of critical structures, systems and components.

This book, prepared by NEA member country experts, contains data and analyses relevant to nuclear power plant life management and the plants extended, longer-term operation (LTO). It addresses technical, economic and environmental aspects and provides insights into the benefits and challenges of plant life management and LTO.--Publisher's description.

This publication provides an overview of the various plant life management (PLiM) methodologies, technologies and processes to ensure long term operation of heavy water reactors (HWRs). Implementation of a systematic and comprehensive PLiM programme, such as that outlined in the publication, goes a long way towards meeting the overall goal of HWR owners and operators to successfully achieve design life and continued operation. Included in this publication are technical aspects of HWR PLiM, component specific technology considerations for condition assessment, an example of a proactive ageing management programme, and Ontario power generation experiences. Country reports from Argentina, Canada, India, the Republic of Korea and Romania are attached in an annex in order to share practices and experiences of PLiM programmes.

This report explains the general approach to plant life management (PLiM), shows and defines the relationship between nuclear power plant maintenance and PLiM, assembles a list of good practices and formulates guidelines for ageing management of critical structures, systems and components. Additionally, the issues of PLiM for long term operation are discussed in terms of human, technological, economic and regulatory aspects, as well as the importance of the exchange of information regarding lessons learned. PLiM is not only a technical system but is also an attitude of the owners to retain plants in operation as long as possible from a safety and business point of view. Asset management is thus a significant parameter and driving force for PLiM implementation.--Publisher's description.