Development of Tools, Instrumentation and Codes for Improving Periodic Examination and Repair of SFRs

Abstract

In the frame of the CEA, EDF, and AREVA coordinated research program launched in 2007 for the development of Generation IV sodium-cooled fast reactors (SFRs), the improvement of in-service inspection and repair (ISI&R) capabilities was identified as a major issue. Within the French-associated multiannual SFR research program, the periodic examination and repair are looked at through the following main R&D axes: (i) improvement of the primary system conceptual design in order to ease periodic examination and repair, (ii) development of inspection techniques (periodic inspection tools and associated simulation), (iii) accessibility and associated robotics, and (iv) development and validation of repair processes. Associated needs are being defined through an iterative method between designers and inspection specialists: adaptation of the SFR design to ISI&R requirements, validation of the ultrasonic transducers, of associated ultrasonic nondestructive examination techniques, of laser repair processes, of associated robotic equipment. International collaboration is also running for some specific items such as ultrasonic visualization under liquid sodium.