Utility research brightens the future of equipment qualification

Now that the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission's (NRC's) deadline for documenting equipment qualification (EQ) has been met and the programs of most operating nuclear plants have been audited by the regulator, it is important that owners continue to protect their investment in qualified equipment by maximizing its trouble-free operation and useful life. This paper discusses activities that utilities can perform and research products of the utility-sponsored Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) that will help to reduce operating costs and enhance equipment and plant life. The paper discusses: life enhancement of equipment and parts, maintenance of EQ, monitoring, parts replacement, and training