A team of seven international experts on behalf of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) visited the High Flux Reactor (HFR) in Petten, the Netherlands, to examine how the operator, the Nuclear Research and Consulting Group (NRG), manages the aging of its unit. The way.
From June 21 to 28, the group examined all options, procedures and projects used by high-flux reactors to maintain their mechanical, electrical and civil structures and components in good condition.
The IAEA concluded that the NRG has made considerable progress in recent years in establishing a comprehensive aging management program that meets IAEA standards. It encourages NRG to continue and expand these activities. The
inspection team found that NRG had a "clear commitment and dedication" to safety in general and aging management in particular. The IAEA said it was pleased with the appointment of an aging coordinator at the HFR reactor. The manner in which major replacement projects are carried out, the conduct of the ten-year safety assessment and the reactor vessel surveillance program were also mentioned as good practice. Amgad Shokr, leader of the
inspection team and chief of the IAEA Research Reactor Safety Section, said: "NRG has made significant progress in establishing aging management programs and procedures in accordance with IAEA safety standards and preparing for the continued safe operation of HFR reactors. The IAEA team encourages Continue this approach, including in the implementation of activities that support aging management at the facility, such as maintenance, inspections and periodic safety reviews. The team also noted good performance in several organizational and technical areas and made recommendations and recommendations for further improvements. Comments."
The group made recommendations for non-physical aging of components. The Agency found that some components were not yet within the scope of the aging management programme, and the program must be expanded in this regard. Programs for civil structures must be improved and, finally, practical recommendations are made for better monitoring of aging in areas such as concrete structures, cables and components in storage.
NRG said it was pleased with the positive feedback from the IAEA on its aging program and said it would follow up on the recommendations made. The 45-megawatt HFR began operations in September 1960, and since then its use has essentially shifted from nuclear materials testing to basic research and the production of the radioisotope for medical use. The HT1 reactor - operated by NRG on behalf of the EU Joint Research Center - has long served approximately 60% of Europe's and 30% of the world's use of medical radioactive sources. About 30,000 patients every day rely on medical isotopes from the Netherlands.
The Dutch government approved the construction of a reactor to replace the aging HFR in January 2012. The new reactor, called Pallas, is expected to begin operating around 2024.
NRG has developed an aging management plan to maintain safe and reliable operation of the HFR until Pallas becomes operational.
