Experiences in Examining and Dispositioning Flaws in Zr-2.5Nb Pressure Retaining CANDU Reactor Components

CANDU reactors use Zr-2.5 Nb alloy pressure tubes, as the primary pressure boundary within the reactor core. These components are subject to periodic inspection and material surveillance programs. Occasionally, the inspection program uncovers a flaw, whereupon the flaw is assessed as to whether it compromises the integrity of the pressure-retaining component. In 1998, such a flaw was observed in one pressure tube of a reactor. Non-destructive techniques and analysis were used to form a basis to disposition the flaw, and the component was fit for a limited service life. This component was eventually removed from service, whereupon the destructive examinations were used to validate the disposition assumptions used. Such a process of validation provides credibility to the disposition process. This paper reviews the original flaw and its subsequent destructive evaluation.