Nuclear ASME Code Inspection

In-service Nuclear Reactor Inspection

Nuclear reactor inspection is a critical component in the ongoing safety and operational integrity of nuclear power plants. This systematic and regulatory-driven process ensures that reactors meet strict safety standards and comply with all federal requirements.

Through comprehensive inspections, operators can maintain optimal performance levels while ensuring the safety and welfare of the public and the environment. Safety, precision, and compliance are paramount in every phase of nuclear reactor inspection.

Understanding Nuclear Reactor Inspection

At the core of every nuclear power plant’s safe operation lies the rigorous nuclear reactor inspection process mandated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

These inspections involve continuous oversight, routine evaluations, and targeted supplemental assessments to detect and mitigate risks. The NRC’s performance-based, risk-informed approach prioritizes inspections at facilities with higher safety challenges, deploying highly trained resident inspectors on-site daily to oversee activities, verify maintenance, and assess emergency preparedness.

By ensuring all aspects of reactor operations, from design to operator training, meet regulatory standards, these inspections form the backbone of nuclear safety assurance. UESI, a leader in specialty engineering and commercial diving services, supports these efforts by offering robust inspection and maintenance solutions tailored to the unique demands of the nuclear industry.

Safety Protocols in Nuclear Reactor Inspection

Safety protocols form a foundational element of nuclear reactor inspection, designed to protect workers, the environment, and the general public.

These protocols govern every inspection phase, encompassing strict adherence to radiation protection, contamination controls, and emergency response readiness. Inspectors validate compliance with these procedures through detailed audits and real-time monitoring, ensuring that operations align with updated safety regulations.

At UESI, our commitment to safety aligns seamlessly with these protocols, offering advanced inspection technologies and expert personnel trained to uphold the highest safety standards during complex underwater and structural inspections at nuclear facilities. Explore more about our comprehensive safety-first approach and how it integrates with broader inspection requirements.

Reactor Maintenance and Its Role in Inspections

Effective reactor maintenance is inseparable from successful nuclear reactor inspection programs. Maintenance activities focus on preserving the integrity of reactor systems, pressure vessels, fuel-handling equipment, and environmental protection systems, ensuring the safety and reliability of these critical components.

Regular inspections identify potential wear, corrosion, or damage early, enabling timely interventions that prevent costly downtime and safety incidents. Our specialized engineering services extend to reactor maintenance support, including underwater inspections and coatings consulting that protect critical components from degradation.

Integration of maintenance with inspection findings ensures continuous reactor reliability and regulatory compliance. Learn more about our nuclear coating consulting and maintenance support services that boost reactor longevity here.

Industrial Decommissioning as part of Our Inspection Services

Industrial decommissioning represents a vital stage in the lifecycle of nuclear reactors, requiring meticulous inspection and evaluation to ensure the safe retirement of facilities.

Nuclear reactor inspection during decommissioning ensures all materials, structures, and systems meet strict guidelines for radiological safety and environmental impact mitigation. This process involves comprehensive documentation, risk assessments, and coordinated corrective actions to decommission reactors efficiently and responsibly.

UESI provides turnkey solutions in nuclear decommissioning, aligning with NRC standards and delivering expertise in underwater structural assessments, contamination control, and project management.

Discover our advanced nuclear decommissioning solutions designed for safety and regulatory excellence.

How Our Inspections Work?: Nuclear ASME B&PV Code, Section XI, NUREG-1801 Aging Management Program assessments(above and below the water)

UESI’s certified in-service inspectors and diver/inspectors perform detailed surface and volumetric examinations in nuclear containment (drywell, containment building, wetwell/suppression chamber(s), supports/hangers/restraints, integral attachments, bolting, ECCS sumps and strainers), and other safety related & pressure retaining systems, structures and components (Fuel Pool liners, Condensate and Reactor Water Storage Tanks, Service Water piping and components).

Our inspections, examinations and assessments are conducted to determine the integrity of nuclear systems, structures and elements in areas not typically accessible (e.g., immersion areas, piping interior surfaces) for coated or non-coated substrates to identify, quantify and evaluate corrosion, mechanical damage, surface defects and minimum wall thickness conditions.

Over the past 35 years, UESI has worked with utilities worldwide to develop and implement programs addressing condition assessments and their impact on plant operability, as well as remediation solutions related to critical safety systems.

Why Partner with UESI for Your Nuclear Reactor Inspection Needs?

UESI stands out as a distinguished specialty engineering and commercial diving company with global experience in serving nuclear power plant operators and heavy marine construction clients.

Our team integrates innovative technologies, strict quality controls, and an unwavering commitment to safety to deliver inspection and maintenance services tailored to the nuclear industry’s needs. From underwater inspections to vendor quality assurance and support during industrial decommissioning, UESI ensures every project is executed with precision and compliance.

Partner with UESI to leverage our comprehensive nuclear reactor inspection expertise and turnkey solutions that optimize reactor safety and operational efficiency. Contact us today to discover how UESI can meet your nuclear facility’s requirements.