Insights from the US plant lifetime improvement program

The US nuclear industry, coordinated by the Nuclear Utility Plant Life Extension Steering Committee and supported by the US Department of Energy, Electric Power Research Institute, and various industry organizations, is investigating issues associated with extending licensed operation beyond 40 years. This paper presents insights from this program. While there still are a number of issues that require closer scrutiny, the initial conclusion is that life extension is feasible. Degradation mechanisms affecting the life expectancy of reactor pressure vessels and vessel internals are identified and assessed. Recommendations for enhancing the ability to predict the life of these components are presented as well. 7 refs