Use of advanced inspection technology during the ISI of a US-RPV

The Reactor Pressure Vessel (RPV) maintains a unique place among nuclear steam supply system components because its failure is unacceptable. The assumption of incredibility of vessel failure is a US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (USNRC) requirement of plant design and operation. Therefore, accurate detection and characterization of vessel flaws are essential. In order to meet the needs for improved pressure vessel inspection, EPRI assisted in the development of the Ultrasonic Data Recording and Processing System (UDRPS). The EPRI NDE Center has supported the transfer to industry through demonstration and documentation of the original system capability and by assisting utilities in their initial applications. Baltimore Gas and Electric (BG and E) purchased a second generation UDRPS and has used the system during the 10 year ISI at the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Plant, Units 1 and 2. This presentation deals with the BG and E applications and the EPRI NDE Center support provided before and during the Calvert Cliffs ISI applications. (author)