A means to keep the supply lines open

Suppliers of spare parts are exiting, or preparing to exit, the nuclear utility business arena in ever increasing numbers. As a result, lead times necessary to obtain critical spare parts is increasing, resulting in decreased plant availability and increased operations and maintenance cost for a utility. To address this issue, a new and unique approach to the procurement process is needed. A process developed by Nuclear Parts Associates (NUPA) for use by utilities in a shared inventory program includes the integration of standardized procurement engineering and quality assurance (QA) programs. When implemented, the program benefits participating utilities by means of the reduction in procurement lead times and reduced inventory carrying costs. Vendors/suppliers are induced to remain in the supply business as a result of reductions in overhead costs associated with the processing of utility purchase orders and support for utility-conducted QA audits of the vendor program and facilities