A review of the UK PWR structural integrity and materials programme

Water Reactor related work has been pursued in the UK for many years, and this has resulted in the development of comprehensive facilities and expertise to undertake a wide range of R and D. A notable contribution to the light water reactor scene was what became known as the ''Marshall Study Group Report on LWR Pressure Vessel Integrity''. The application to build the first UK PWR at Sizewell led to a Public Inquiry which provided the opportunity to present the full range of world work and knowledge on structural integrity and materials issues. The deliberations of the Study Group and the papers required for the enquiry had a significant influence on the UK materials R and D programme. The many generic programmes previously pursued were modified to be more plant specific and provide essential back up to the design, safety and operation of Sizewell 'B'. The work in support of Sizewell 'B' is represented by well established programmes. The CEGB has in-house activities and the work within the UKAEA ranges from being fully supported by CEGB to fully supported by the Department of Energy. Although the work fully supported by CEGB is very plant specific there is an appreciable percentage of other work which is generic with a long term interest. Attention is now turning to work which may be required for Hinkley 'C' and other stations of the future. In this paper there is no attempt to cover all the topics in the programme. Those chosen are considered to be advancing scientific understanding as well as answering specific questions on plant. The facilities and expertise available are sufficient to tackle unforeseen operational problems as well as the wide range of topics deemed to be desirable in support of the design, construction and commissioning of the plant. The paper comprises the strategy and goals of the programme, a general review, comments on the forward programme and some technical highlights