ASTM E185-15

4.1 Predictions of neutron radiation effects on pressure vessel steels are considered in the design of light-water moderated nuclear power reactors. Changes in system operating parameters often are made throughout the service life of the reactor vessel to account for radiation effects. Due to the variability in the behavior of reactor vessel steels, a surveillance program is warranted to monitor changes in the properties of actual vessel materials caused by long-term exposure to the neutron radiation and temperature environment of the reactor vessel. This practice describes the criteria that should be considered in planning and implementing surveillance test programs and points out precautions that should be taken to ensure that: (4.2 The methodology to be used in estimation of neutron exposure obtained for reactor vessel surveillance programs is defined in Guides E482 and E853.

4.3 The design of a surveillance program for a given reactor vessel must consider the existing body of data on similar materials in addition to the specific materials used for that reactor vessel. The amount of such data and the similarity of exposure conditions and material characteristics will determine their applicability for predicting radiation effects.

1.1 This practice covers procedures for designing a surveillance program for monitoring the radiation-induced changes in the mechanical properties of ferritic materials in light-water moderated nuclear power reactor vessels. New advanced light-water small molecular reactor designs with a nominal design output of 300 MWe or less have not been specifically considered in this practice. This practice includes the minimum requirements for the design of a surveillance program, selection of vessel material to be included, and the initial schedule for evaluation of materials.

1.2 This practice was developed for all light-water moderated nuclear power reactor vessels for which the predicted maximum fast neutron fluence (E > 1 MeV) exceeds 1 × 10²¹ neutrons/m ² (1 × 10¹⁷ n/cm²) at the inside surface of the ferritic steel reactor vessel.

1.3 This practice does not provide specific procedures for monitoring the radiation induced changes in properties beyond the design life. Practice E2215 addresses changes to the withdrawal schedule during and beyond the design life.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.