Long Term Operation for EDF Nuclear Power Plants : Towards 60 years

The lifetime extension of the French nuclear fleet, significantly beyond 40 years (initial design basis) is presently one of the major objectives for EDF, in order to smooth the commissioning flow for the new build program. A lifetime extension up to 60 years should be reasonably achieved, owing to the compliance with additional safety and environmental requirements, an adequate LTO strategy including an exceptional maintenance program periodically updated, and a LTO support program (R and D) consisting of aging knowledge improvement and decision-making tools and methods. The LTO program is illustrated with some examples of replaceable components and a focus is placed on the complementary analysis in progress for RPV and containment safety assessment. (author)