Determination of in-service inspection requirements for fast reactor components using System Based Code concept

Takaya, Shigeru  ; Kamishima, Yoshio*; Machida, Hideo*; Watanabe, Daigo*; Asayama, Tai 

In our previous study, we proposed a new process for determining the in-service inspection (ISI) requirements using the System Based Code concept. The proposed process consists of two complementary evaluations, one focusing on structural integrity and the other on plant safety. In this study, the ISI requirements for a reactor guard vessel (RGV) and core support structure (CSS) of a prototype sodium-cooled fast breeder reactor in Japan (Monju) were investigated using the proposed process. It was shown that both components had sufficient reliability even assuming unrealistic severe conditions. The failure occurrences of these components were practically eliminated. Hence, it was concluded that no ISI requirements were needed for these components. The proposed process is expected to contribute to the realization of effective and rational ISI by properly taking into account plant-specific features.