Aging Assessment of Safety-Related Fuses Used in Low- and Medium-Voltage Applications in Nuclear Power Plants

摘要

An aging assessment of safety-related fuses used in commercial nuclear power plants has been performed to determine if aging degradation is a concern for these components in older nuclear power plants. This study is based on the review and analysis of past operating experience, as reported in the Licensee Event Report database, the Nuclear Plant Reliability Data System, and the Equipment Performance and Information Exchange System database. In addition, documents prepared by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission that identify significant issues or concerns related to fuses have been reviewed, and one fuse manufacturer was visited to obtain their insights. Based on the results of the aforementioned reviews, predominant aging characteristics are identified and potential condition monitoring techniques are discussed.