Analysis of WWER 1000 SG cold collector cracking

Following the recommendations of the 1993 consultants' meeting on 'Steam Generator Collector Integrity of WWER 1000 Reactors', an extensive experimental program was started with the aim of finding the dominant damage mechanism responsible for cold collector cracking in steam generators, and of determining whether proper operating conditions can make the operation of VITKOVICE-produced steam generators safe throughout their lifetime. The experiments consisted of: a study of the effect of strain and thermal ageing and dissolved oxygen content on subcritical crack growth in 10GN2MFA steel; a study of the effect of high temperature water and tube expansion technology on the fracture behaviour of ligaments between holes for heat exchange tubes; a study of the effect of drilling, tube expansion technology and heat treatment on residual stresses on the surface of holes for heat exchange tubes. Details of the experimental techniques used are given as well as a discussion of the results obtained and presented in tables and graphs. (A.K.)