The Development and Manufacture of Size for Size Feeder Pipe for Feeder Replacement

Abstract

The recently recognised problem of feeder pipe thinning created a unique sourcing problem. Operators require relatively small quanitities of nuclear class 1 seamless feeder pipe for such replacement which prior to the introduction of this product in 2006 was not available.It was desired that the pipe be produced at the exact size of the pipe currently in use at the specific reactor site (feeder pipe size varies from site to site). Secondly the pipe had to be made in conformance to the original code year of issue and to conform to the intent of the original material specifications. Finally a supply strategy had to be implemented allowing for timely manufacture of replacement piping.This presentation will report upon how replacement size for size feeder tube was developed and is currently manufactured at Nu-Tech Precision Metals. The paper will also detail the current supply strategy to ensure timely manufacture of the product.