Assessment of Plant Life Extension (FLEX) and Long-Term Reliability Assurance (LTRA) Issues for Ontario Hydro's Nuclear Generating Stations

Abstract

Due to the effects of aging, nuclear plant reliability may decline during the middle and later years of a plant's life. A methodology for assuring the long-term reliability of Ontario Hydro's nuclear plants during the nominal service life of 40 years and for preserving the plant life extension option has been developed and is described in this paper. A list of critical plant components that have a high potential for taking the station out of service for a long time has been prepared. An initial review indicates that the majority of the critical components can support a reliable life of 40 years and beyond, provided a proactive and systematic approach to data gathering, monitoring, inspection, and research and development related to these components is maintained. The paper outlines a three phased program for Ontario Hydro in this area.