Qualifications Needed to Design, Construct and Manufacture Nuclear Systems and Equipment

Abstract

This paper divides a nuclear plant into 4 zones, in terms of the qualifications that will be needed to construct or manufacture components, equipment and systems to nuclear standards. Alberta companies that have performed similar work for the oil industry could qualify within 3 to 4 months to do similar types of work for nuclear zones 3 or 4. Should they want to perform work for zone 2, their qualification period becomes 6 to 12 months. For zone 1 work, the qualification period becomes 18+ months. A manufacturer or contractor willing to go through the qualification process will not only receive a good return on his investment, but will also place his company ahead of the competition for additional nuclear contracts. In addition, he will increase the quality and reliability of his services or products, and thereby, will become more competitive for contracts in the oil business.