NDTnet 1998 Aug, Vol.3 No.8

Full-Text - Abstract

Detecting and sizing flaws have big importance from the point of view of the long term structural integrity assessment of main components and thus using advanced NDT methods is essential for the safe and reliable operation of nuclear power plants.

The basic problem of the plant operators in Eastern Europe is that the supplier did not provide appropriate methodology, criteria and equipment for planning, organization and implementation of the In-Service Inspection (ISI) activity of these reactors. The countries in the region (Armenia, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Russian Federation, Slovak Republic and Ukraine) had to develop their own capabilities which, however, reflect the existing differences among their economic, financial and social conditions.

In response to the needs of the countries in the region the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) launched a regional technical cooperation project with aiming at facilitating the transfer of technology and exchange of information and experience in the application of advanced NDT methods, improving the quality of ISI, and integrating of advanced quality assurance systems in the current organizations. The project has been being implemented through a series of workshops.
In 1997, the basic elements of ISI planning and implementation, and the performance demonstration of NDT systems were on the focus.

Conclusion so far is that ISI and using advanced NDT is a high priority issue in the region. Although some of the countries have significant progress in various areas but other countries need further assistance. Therefore the coordinating role of the IAEA in this field has been highly appreciated. The project should focus on the analysis, comparison and clear understanding of the basic concept of the Russian and Western ISI codes; increase of ISI performance effectiveness (inspection qualification); and flaw discrimination and sizing methods and techniques as essential input for fracture mechanics calculation.

Abstract Source:
Book of Abstracts, 7th European Conference on Non-Destructive Testing, 26-29 May 1998, ISBN: 87-986898-0-00

Full-Text Source:
Proceedings of the 7th European Conference on Non-Destructive Testing, 26-29 May 1998, ISBN:

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