Commission finds differences in codes for nuclear reactors
The European Commission found major differences in the codes for nuclear reactors of Member States, according to a review of progress in the harmonization of European in-service inspection codes in nuclear science and technology. The report reviews the scope and extent of in-service inspection (ISI) performed on existing light-water nuclear reactors (LWRs) and liquid-metal-cooled fast reactors (FRs) with the aim of harmonizing European codes. The report identifies the major differences in the requirements of French RSEM Code, the German KTA rules and the ISI specification for Sizewell B in the United Kingdom. The report also describes the licensing requirements for LWRs in France, Germany and the United Kingdom. The report covers the ISI of liquid-metal-cooled FRs and examines the current practices and proposals for FR plants and projects which have developed significantly over the last two decades.