Lanterna Rally

Author: C. Z Serpan (Jr)

Publisher:

Published: 1966

Total Pages: 23

ISBN-13:

The deleterious effect of high energy neutrons upon the mechanical properties of reactor pressure vessel steels has prompted the employment of material surveillance programs in many nuclear power plants. These programs provide for the exposure of test specimens representative of the reactor pressure vessel at in-reactor locations, wherein they will experience the same thermal and radiation damage history as the vessel itself. Evaluation of these specimens, which reveals the progressive changes in the mechanical properties of the vessel, provides a basis upon which operational procedures and maximum lifetime exposure may be formulated for the plant. A review and an analysis of several instances of shortcomings in surveillance programs are presented along with a set of recommendations for consideration in planning new surveillance programs. In utilizing these recommendations, pressure vessel surveillance programs can be made to provide valuable information for use in determining plant operations; at the same time results from these programs may add to the general knowledge of radiation effects in pressure vessel steels or other materials subject to radiation. Recognition of the value of surveillance programs and their conscientious application should further the public acceptance of nuclear reactors as safe alternative power systems.