Steam Generator Asset Management Program

The Steam Generator Asset Management Program (SGAMP) is a long term program designed to maximize the performance and reliability of the steam generators. The SGAMP focuses on plant specific conditions and hence is applicable to the original or the replacement steam generators. It is recommended that the utility and the vendor form a joint steam generator management team (SGMT) to develop, monitor and implement a long-term plan to address steam generator operation, maintenance and life extension goals. The SGMT will consist of representatives from operations, chemistry, maintenance and engineering functions and will be responsible for making decisions related to the steam generators. The charter of the SGMT is to develop a steam generator strategic plan that will cost-effectively manage steam generator options. The strategic plan is consistent with the Steam Generator Program Guidelines (NEI 97-06 in the United States). The strategic plan is a living document and is revised periodically to incorporate inspection results, new technology developments, lessons learned and industry experience. Cost-benefit analyses of strategies may be performed to prolong steam generator operability through steam generator performance modeling (tube degradation, fouling, etc.), diagnostic tools, regulatory strategy, condition monitoring and operational assessment strategy, and maintenance strategy. The SGMT will provide input regarding potential maintenance of the steam generators with schedule and cost impacts for each outage. It will also recommend engineering evaluations to be performed in support of program goals and will develop short- and long-term recommendations. These recommendations will address action plans, performance measures and results. Secondary side inspection and cleaning strategy should be developed (techniques and frequency) to maximize performance cost-effectively. This paper is based on Westinghouse experience gained by working with several pressurized water reactor (PWR) plant operators in the United States (US).