Managing nuclear plant standardization

Development of a national nuclear program must take into account the issue of standardization because the approaches to standardization in the design and construction of a nuclear power plant are complex and challenging problems. In an effort to shorten licensing, design, and construction schedules and reduce costs, four methods of design standardization have been proposed by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Each of the methods has its inherent limitations and restrictions, and other methods should be considered. A generic approach coupled with effective overall project management that emphasizes clearly defined criteria key design documents and modular plant arrangements offers a logical approach to standardization