TVA'S Program for in-Service Inspection of Heat Exchanger Tubes and Tube Supports at Nuclear Power Plants

摘要

TVA is engaged in a comprehensive in-service inspection program for balance-of-plant (BOP) heat exchangers at its nuclear plants. The program consists primarily of eddy-current testing (ECT) combined with other inspection methods for the purposes of detecting, quantifying, and monitoring tube and tube support damage mechanisms before tube leaks occur; thereby increasing plant availability and assuring continued safe operation. This paper describes TVA's program, its objectives, and its activities as encompassed within the organizational framework. Equipment, procedures, methods, techniques, and documentation are also included as a means of acquainting the reader with the requirements of an ongoing heat exchanger inspection program. (ERA citation 09:043236)