ASME Code Quality-Assurance Program for nuclear reactors

To enhance the safety and reliability of vessels, pumps, valves, and piping used in nuclear power systems, the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code has set forth specific quality-assurance (QA) responsibilities for the owner, the manufacturers, the installers, the ASME, and authorized inspection agencies. In particular, the manufacturers and the installers of such components must operate under a controlled manufacturing system and under detailed QA programs. This approach to controlling the design, fabrication, and installation of nuclear components during the past 3 years has materially improved the integrity of nuclear pressure-boundary and pressure-containing systems