When faced with operating fatigue concerns, nuclear plants traditionally look to the requirements contained in the original construction design code, ASME Section III, as a basis for component operability. These rules constitute the requirements for nuclear power plant vessel & component construction and, when combined with the Owner's Design Specification, provide reasonable assurance of reliable operation. However, once construction is complete and operation begins, the purpose of any subsequent evaluations shifts from component "design qualification" to component "fitness for service." This is a role that has been assumed for ASME Section XI. This paper presents a philosophy, recently endorsed by the ASME Section XI Executive Committee, intended to guide future Code activities regarding fatigue and its impact on component serviceability.
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