Canadian Regulatory Perspectives on Probabilistic Fracture Mechanics

Abstract of the technical presentation presented at:
U.S. NRC 28th Annual Regulatory Information Conference (RIC)
March 8–10, 2016

Prepared by:
Bogdan Wasiluk and John Jin
Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission

Abstract:

The movement of regulatory policies toward more risk-informed regulation has resulted in increased utilization of probabilistic fracture mechanics (PFM). This includes applications of PFM for estimating failure probability or failure frequency of passive pressure retaining components in nuclear power plants. The probabilistic methodologies have been under development to address some outstanding technical concerns. Adequate quantification and treatment of the uncertainties associated with input parameters, model form and methodologies, and development of probabilistic acceptance criteria are key challenges.

The U.S. NRC is organizing a technical session titled "Improving Confidence in Probabilistic Fracture Mechanics" at the 28th Annual Regulatory Information Conference in March 2016 in North Bethesda, Maryland, U.S. The technical session consists of several presentations including regulatory perspectives from the U.S. NRC and SSM (Swedish regulator). CNSC staff will make a presentation regarding general perspectives on probabilistic fracture mechanics, improving confidence in probabilistic fracture mechanics assessments, and applications for CANDU pressure tubes.

To obtain a copy of the abstract's document, please contact us at cnsc.info.ccsn@cnsc-ccsn.gc.ca or call 613-995-5894 or 1-800-668-5284 (in Canada). When contacting us, please provide the title and date of the abstract.