CANDU steam generator life management

Steam generators are a critical component of a nuclear power reactor, and can contribute significantly to station unavailability, as has been amply demonstrated in PWRs. Canadian Deuterium Uranium (CANDU®) steam generators are not immune to steam generator degradation, and the variety of CANDU steam generator designs and tube materials has led to some unexpected challenges. However, aggressive remedial actions, and careful proactive maintenance activities, have resulted in a decrease in steam generator-related station unavailability of Canadian CANDU reactors. AECL and the CANDU utilities have defined programs that will enable existing or new steam generators to operate effectively for 40 years. Research and development (R&D) work covers corrosion and mechanical degradation of tube bundles and internals, chemistry, thermalhydraulics, fouling, inspection and cleaning, as well as provision for speciality tool development for specific problem solving. A major driving force is development of CANDU-specific fitness-for-service (FFS) guidelines, including appropriate inspection and monitoring technology to measure steam generator condition. This paper will also show how recent advances in cleaning technology are integrated into a life management strategy. Longer-range work focuses on development of intelligent on-line monitoring for the feedwater system and steam generator. New steam generator designs have reduced risk of corrosion and fouling, are more easily inspected and cleaned, and are less susceptible to mechanical damage. The Canadian CANDU utilities have developed programs for remedial actions to combat degradation of performance (Gentilly-2, Point Lepreau, Bruce-A/B, Pickering-A/B) and strategic plans to ensure that good future operation is ensured. The R&D program, as well as operating experience, has identified where improvements in operating practices and/or designs can be made in order to ensure steam generator design life at an acceptable capacity factor.