EPRI and Framatome Qualify Ultrasonic Inspection Technology for PWR Fleet
The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) and Framatome (both ENS Corporate Members) have announced the successful qualification of a new ultrasonic inspection technique for weld examinations on pressurised water reactor (PWR) core barrels.
This innovative method is expected to be applicable across all PWR designs currently operating in the U.S. nuclear fleet. It represents an important advancement in inspection capabilities, supporting the safe and reliable long-term operation (LTO) of nuclear reactors.
The qualification was carried out under EPRI’s Performance Demonstration Initiative (PDI), a programme designed to ensure compliance with rigorous industry standards. Further expansion of the qualification scope is expected in the second quarter of 2026, pending the provision of additional demonstration components by EPRI.
This next phase aligns with updated inspection requirements defined in its Materials Reliability Program guidelines (MRP-227), which provide guidance for the management of PWR reactor internals and come into effect in 2026.
Read the full Framatome Press Release.
Developments in advanced inspection technologies such as this are also relevant for European operators, since LTO and ageing management of nuclear reactors remain key priorities across the continent.
As highlighted in the recent ENS High Scientific Council Position Paper “On the Importance of Extending the Operation of the Existing European Nuclear Fleet”:
Nuclear facilities are living assets: during their lifetimes, many of their structures, systems and components can be replaced as part of normal maintenance procedures or of more extensive refurbishments. […] RD&I is still critical to timely address the technical challenges and opportunities offered by long operational lifetimes in various interconnected areas…
