Improving reactor pressure-vessel availability by design

Although reactor pressure vessels are safe, they presently contribute to the unavailability time of nuclear power systems. This effect could be reduced significantly by better application of the now available design technology. A brief description is presented of the status of this technology, as pertinent to reactor pressure-vessel availability, and the application of this technology during the construction and operation phases. Recommendations are made as to how this technology could be applied to improving vessel availability. (auth)