Framatome Demonstrates Ultrasonic Inspection Capability for PWR Core Barrel Welds with EPRI Documentation
Framatome (ENS Corporate Member) has demonstrated an ultrasonic inspection technique for weld examinations on pressurised water reactor (PWR) core barrels, with EPRI (ENS Corporate Member) documenting the demonstrated capability.
The demonstrated capability supports enhanced inspection practices for PWR reactor internals and contributes to safe and reliable long-term operation (LTO) of nuclear reactors.
The capability demonstrations were performed by EPRI performance demonstration personnel following guidance developed by the industry-led Materials Reliability Program (MRP) Inspection Technical Advisory Committee and implemented in accordance with NEI-03-08 processes. These demonstrations do not fall under ASME Section XI, Appendix VIII or the EPRI Performance Demonstration Initiative (PDI).
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…
