Status of Code Cases Related to Application of Risk-Informed Inservice Inspection in ASME Code Section XI

Abstract

ASME Code Section XI Cases N-577 and N-578, for application of risk-informed technology to examination of piping systems in nuclear power plants, are proceeding, with review and acceptance by ASME Board on Nuclear Codes and Standards and by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission remaining before implementation. Sources of support for a favorable reaction by NRC will be reviewed, starting with developmental research sponsored by NRC in the late 1980s. Extensive discussion in the engineering community as exemplified by forums presented by ASME PVP in 1994 and 1995 will be cited. Recent academic and NRC managerial support for risk-informed performance-based regulation will also be cited. The expressed need for risk neutrality will then be addressed.