Ageing Management and Long Term Operation of Nuclear Power Plants: Data Management, Scope Setting, Plant Programmes and Documentation

The number of IAEA Member States planning to extend the operation of their nuclear power plants (NPPs) beyond the time frame originally anticipated has increased due to the significant economic advantages offered by the long-term operation (LTO) of existing NPPs. This Safety Report provides information on selected topics from IAEA Safety Standards Series Nos SSR?2/2 (Rev. 1), Safety of Nuclear Power Plants: Commissioning and Operation, and SSG?48, Ageing Management and Development of a Programme for Long Term Operation of Nuclear Power Plants. It focuses on NPPs throughout their lifetime, including operation beyond the time frame originally established for their operation and decommissioning, and considers the different reactor designs that exist around the world. It is intended to provide information for operating organizations and regulatory bodies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 106 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2022
Publisher: IAEA

In recent years, a notable trend has emerged among International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Member States, with an increasing number of them planning to extend the operational life of their nuclear power plants (NPPs) beyond the initial projections. This decision has been driven by the substantial economic benefits associated with the long-term operation (LTO) of existing NPPs. This Safety Report serves as a complement to IAEA Safety Standards Series Nos. SSR?2/2 (Rev. 1), Safety of Nuclear Power Plants: Commissioning and Operation, and SSG?48, Ageing Management and Development of a Programme for Long Term Operation of Nuclear Power Plants. It offers insights into selected topics covered in the latter, specifically focusing on data collection and record-keeping, scope setting for structures, systems, and components, plant programs, corrective action programs, and documentation of ageing management and LTO assessment. The publication's primary focus is on NPPs throughout their entire lifespan, encompassing operation beyond the initial operational periods and decommissioning processes, while taking into account the diverse reactor designs employed globally. Moreover, its relevance extends to facilities for spent fuel storage and radioactive waste management at NPPs. Furthermore, this Safety Report can serve as a valuable reference for managing the ageing of other nuclear installations and radioactive waste management facilities. While primarily intended for operating organizations, it can also be utilized by regulatory bodies to ensure the safe and efficient operation of nuclear power plants.

ISBN-13: 9789201328212