Progress in the Development of J Estimation Schemes for the RSE-M Code

The RSE-M Code provides rules and requirements for in-service inspection of French Pressurized Water Reactor power plant components. The Code gives non mandatory guidance for analytical evaluation of flaws. To calculate the stress intensity factors in pipes and shells containing semi-elliptical surface defects, influence coefficients are given for a wide range of geometrical parameters. To calculate the J integral for a circumferential surface crack in a straight pipe, simplified methods are available in the present version of the Code (2000 Addenda) for mechanical loads (in-plane bending and torsion moments, pressure), thermal loads as well as for the combination of these loads. This paper presents the recent advances in the development of J-estimation schemes for two configurations: • a longitudinal surface crack in a straight pipe, • a longitudinal surface crack in the mid-section of an elbow.