Fabrication of BWR pressure vessel NDE performance demonstration mockups

The purpose of this program is to provide reactor pressure vessel (RPV) test blocks containing induced flaws whose shape, size, and orientation are known and documented. The blocks will be used to qualify ultrasonic testing procedures, examiners, and equipment for inspecting RPV welds and vessel nozzle inner radii. Heretofore, there has been no requirement for qualification of personnel, equipment, and procedures together. Equipment performance checks are required by Regulatory Guide 1.150 for the purpose of improving flaw sizing repeatability. Procedure qualification has been performed by the user, either in his laboratory or on site in demonstrations to the ANII. A draft Regulatory Guide and a draft ASME Section XI addressing the requirements for personnel, equipment, and procedure qualification are now being circulated. Establishment of a full qualifications program by EPRI will greatly benefit the nuclear industry. It will provide a uniform method for qualification that is in compliance with regulatory and ASME Code requirements, and will provide one organization with overall responsibility. In addition to compliance considerations, this is deemed the most cost-effective approach for the industry as a whole