Swedish RPV Surveillance Programs

Because the reactors of the Swedish reactor program were erected over a limited period of time, there are significant similarities regarding used materials and manufacturing methods between the different units. Each individual plant is supplied with a plant-specific surveillance program that reflects the materials utilized in the belt-line area form the start of operation. The programs were originally based on U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission guidance and supported by ASTM codes and standards, and the reactors were originally constructed for an estimated operating time of 40 years. The programs have been updated to reflect the fact that current planning calls for up to 60 years of operation for several of the most recent plants. The surveillance programs are to be validated and accepted by the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority.