ML12340A291
| ML12340A291 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | Millstone |
| Issue date: | 01/04/2013 |
| From: | James Kim Plant Licensing Branch 1 |
| To: | Heacock D Dominion Nuclear Connecticut |
| Kim J NRR/DORL/LPL1-1 301-415-4125 | |
| References | |
| TAC ME9188 | |
| Download: ML12340A291 (24) | |
Text
UNITED STATES NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20555-0001 January 4, 2013 Mr. David A. Heacock President and Chief Nuclear Officer Dominion Nuclear Innsbrook Technical Center 5000 Dominion Boulevard Glen Allen, VA 23060-6711
SUBJECT:
MILLSTONE POWER STATION UNIT NO.2-ISSUANCE OF AMENDMENT RE: ADOPT TSTF-510, "REVISION TO STEAM GENERATOR PROGRAM INSPECTION FREQUENCIES AND TUBE SAMPLE SELECTION" (TAC NO. ME9188)
Dear Mr. Heacock:
The Commission has :ssued the enclosed Amendment No. 312 to Renewed Facility Operating License No. DPR-65 for the Millstone Power Station, Unit No. 2,in response to your application dated July 31, 2012.
The amendment would revise Technical Specification (TS) limiting Condition for Operation (LCO) 3.4.5, "Steam Generator Tube Integrity," TS 6.26, "Steam Generator (SG) Program," and TS 6.9,1,9, "Steam Generator Tube Inspection Report," and include TS Bases changes that summarize and claqi'{ 'the purpose of the TS in accordance with TS Task Force Traveler (TSTF) 510, Revision to Steam Generator Program Inspection Frequencies and Tube Sample Selaction,"
A.,.~cpy Of ~ne (I;:;::teo Safety Evaluation is also enclosed Notice of Issuance will be included in the Commission's biweekly Federal Register notice.
Sincerely, James Kim, ProjDC~ Manager Plant Licensing Brancl11-1 Division of Opera:it,g Reactor Licensing Office of Nuch~ar Peactnf Regulation Docket No. 50-336
Enclosures:
- 1. Amendment No. 312 to DPR-65
- 2. Safety Evaluation cc w/encls: Distribution via Listserv
UNITED STATES NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20555-0001 DOMINION NUCLEAR CONNECTICUT, INC.
DOCKET NO. 50-336 MILLSTONE POWER STATION, UNIT NO.2 AMENDMENT TO RENEWED FACILITY OPERATING LICENSE Amendment No. 312 Renewed License No. DPR-65
- 1.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (the Commission) has found that:
A The application for amendment by the applicant dated July 31, 2012, complies with the standards and requirements of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended (the Act), and the Commission's rules and regulations set forth in 10 CFR Chapter I; B.
The facility will operate in conformity with the application, the provisions of the Act, and the rules and regulations of the Commission; C.
There is reasonable assurance (i) that the activities authorized by this amendment can be conducted without endangering the health and safety of the public, and (ii) that such activities will be conducted in compliance with the Commission's regulations; D.
The issuance of this amendment will not be inimical to the common defense and security or to the health and safety of the public; and E.
The issuance of this amendment is in accordance with 10 CFR Part 51 of the Commission's regulations and all applicable requirements have been satisfied.
- 2
- 2.
Accordingly, the license is amended by changes to the Technical Specifications as indicated in the attachment to this license amendment, and paragraph 2.C.(2) of Renewed Facility Operating License No. DPR-65 is hereby amended to read as follows:
(2)
Technical Specifications The Technical Specifications contained in Appendix A, as revised through Amendment No. 312, are hereby incorporated in the renewed license. The licensee shall operate the facility in accordance with the Technical Specifications.
- 3.
This license amendment is effective as of the date of issuance, and shall be implemented within 60 days of issuance.
FOR THE NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION A-d George A Wilson, Chief Plant Licensing Branch 1-1 Division of Operating Reactor Licensing Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation
Attachment:
Changes to the License and Technical Specifications Date of Issuance: January 4, 2013
ATTACHMENT TO LICENSE AMENDMENT NO. 312 RENEWED FACILITY OPERATING LICENSE NO. DPR-65 DOCKET NO. 50-336 Replace the following page of the Renewed Facility Operating License with the attached revised page. The revised page is identified by amendment number and contains marginal lines indicating the areas of change.
Remove Insert Page 3 Page 3 Replace the following pages of the Appendix A Technical Specifications, with the attached revised pages. The revised pages are identified by amendment number and contain marginal lines indicating the areas of change.
Remove Insert 3/44-5 3/4 4-5 3/4 4-6 3/4 4-6 6-20 6-20 6-30 6-30 6-31 6-31 6-31a
- 3 Connecticut, in accordance with the procedures and limitations set forth in this renewed operating license; (2)
Pursuant to the Act and 10 CFR Part 70, to receive, possess and use at any time special nuclear material as reactor fuel, in accordance with the limitations for storage and amounts required for reactor operation, as described in the Final Safety Analysis Report, as supplemented and amended; (3)
Pursuant to the Act and 10 CFR Parts 30, 40, and 70, to receive, possess and use at any time any byproduct, source and special nuclear material as sealed neutron sources for reactor startup, sealed sources for reactor instrumentation and radiation monitoring equipment calibration, and as fission detectors in amounts as required; (4)
Pursuant to the Act and 10 CFR Parts 30, 40, and 70, to receive, possess and use in amounts as required any byproduct, source or special nuclear material without restriction to chemical or physical form for sample analysis or instrument and equipment calibration or associated with radioactive apparatus or components; (5)
Pursuant to the Act and 10 CFR Parts 30 and 70, to possess, but not separate, such byproduct and special nuclear materials as may be produced by the operation of the facility.
C.
This renewed operating license shall be deemed to contain and is subject to the conditions specified in the following Commission regulations in 10 CFR Chapter 1: Part 20, Section 30.34 of Part 30, Section 40.41 of Part 40, Section 50.54 and 50.59 of Part 50, and Section 70.32 of Part 70; and is subject to all applicable provisions of the Act and the rules, regulations, and orders of the Commission now or hereafter in effect; and is subject to the additional conditions specified or incorporated below:
(1)
Maximum Power Level The licensee is authorized to operate the facility at steady-state reactor core power levels not in excess of 2700 megawatts thermal.
(2)
Technical Specifications The Technical Specifications contained in Appendix A, as revised through Amendment No. 312, are hereby incorporated in the renewed license.
The licensee shall operate the facility in accordance with the Technical Specifications.
Renewed License No. DPR-65 Amendment NO.312
REACTOR COOLANT SYSTEM STEAM GENERATOR TUBE [NTEGRITY LIMITING CONDITION FOR OPERATION 3.4.5 Steam Generator (SG) tube integrity shall be maintained.
AND All SG tubes satisfying the tube plugging criteria shall be plugged in accordance with the Steam Generator Program.
APPLICABILITY:
MODES 1,2,3, and 4.
ACTION:
- NOTE Separate ACTION entry is allowed for each SG tube.
- a.
With one or more SG tubes satisfying the tube plugging criteria and not plugged in accordance with the Steam Generator Program:
- 1.
Verify tube integrity of the affected tube( s) is maintained until the next refueling outage or SG tube inspection within 7 days, and
- 2.
Plug the affected tube( s) in accordance with the Steam Generator Program prior to entering HOT SHUTDOWN following the next refueling outage or SG tube inspection.
- b.
With required ACTION and associated completion time ofACTION a. not met or SG tube integrity not maintained:
- 1.
Be in HOT STANDBY within 6 hours6.944444e-5 days <br />0.00167 hours <br />9.920635e-6 weeks <br />2.283e-6 months <br />, and
- 2.
Be in COLD SHUTDOWN within 36 hours4.166667e-4 days <br />0.01 hours <br />5.952381e-5 weeks <br />1.3698e-5 months <br />.
MILLSTONE - UNIT 2 3/44-5 Amendment No. £-99,312
REACTOR COOLANT SYSTEM STEAM GENERATOR TUBE INTEGRITY SURVEILLANCE REQUIREMENTS 4.4.5.1 Verify SG tube integrity in accordance with the Steam Generator Program.
4.4.5.2 Verify that each inspected SG tube that satisfies the tube plugging criteria is plugged in accordance with the Steam Generator Program prior to entering HOT SHUTDOWN following a SG tube inspection.
MILLSTONE - UNIT 2 3/44-6 Amendment No. m,312
ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS STEAM GENERATOR TUBE INSPECTION REPORT 6.9.1.9 A report shall be submitted within 180 days after initial entry into MODE 4 following completion ofan inspection performed in accordance with TS 6.26, Steam Generator (SG)
Program. The report shall include:
- a.
The scope of inspections performed on each SG,
- b.
Degradation mechanisms found,
- c.
Nondestructive examination techniques utilized for each degradation mechanism,
- d.
Location, orientation (iflinear), and measured sizes (ifavailable) of service induced indications,
- e.
Number oftubes plugged during the inspection outage for each degradation mechanism,
- f.
The number and percentage oftubes plugged to date, and the effective plugging percentage in each steam generator.
- g.
The results of condition monitoring, including the results oftube pulls and in-situ testing.
SPECIAL REPORTS 6.9.2 Special reports shall be submitted to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Document Control Desk, Washington, D.C. 20555, one copy to the Regional Administrator, Region I, and one copy to the NRC Resident Inspector within the time period specified for each report. These reports shall be submitted covering the activities identified below pursuant to the requirements ofthe applicable reference specification:
- a.
Deleted
- b.
Deleted
- c.
Deleted
- d.
ECCS Actuation, Specifications 3.5.2 and
- e.
Deleted
- f.
Deleted
- a.
RCS Overpressure Mitigation, Specification 3.4.9.3.
MILLSTONE - UNIT 2 6-20 Amendment No.9, :3-6, +04, tH, +4&,
~,+6;,+9l,~,~,~,~,~,312
~,m,
ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS 6.26 STEAM GENERATOR (SG) PROGRAM A Steam Generator Program shall be established and implemented to ensure that SG tube integrity is maintained. In addition, the Steam Generator Program shall include the following:
- a.
Provisions for condition monitoring assessments: Condition monitoring assessment means an evaluation of the "as found" condition of the tubing with respect to the perfonnance criteria for structural integrity and accident induced leakage. The "as found" condition refers to the condition of the tubing during a SG inspection outage, as detennined from the inservice inspection results or by other means, prior to the plugging oftubes. Condition monitoring assessments shall be conducted during each outage during which the SG tubes are inspected or plugged to confinn that the perfonnance criteria are being met.
- b.
Provisions for perfonnance criteria for SG tube integrity: SG tube integrity shall be maintained by meeting the perfonnance criteria for tube structural integrity, accident induced leakage, and operational LEAKAGE.
- 1.
Structural integrity perfonnance criterion: All in-service steam generator tubes shall retain structural integrity over the full range of normal operating conditions (including STARTUP, operation in the power range, HOT STANDBY, and cool down), all anticipated transients included in the design specification, and design basis accidents. This includes retaining a safety factor of3.0 against burst under nonnal steady state full power operation primary-to-secondary pressure differential and a safety factor of 1.4 against burst applied to the design basis accident primary-to-secondary pressure differentials. Apart from the above requirements, additional loading conditions associated with the design basis accidents, or combination ofaccidents in accordance with the design and licensing basis, shall also be evaluated to detennine if the associated loads contribute significantly to burst or collapse. In the assessment of tube integrity, those loads that do significantly affect burst or collapse shall be detennined and assessed in combination with the loads due to pressure with a safety factor of 1.2 on the combined primary loads and 1.0 on axial secondary loads.
- 2.
Accident induced leakage perfonnance criterion: The primary to secondary accident induced leakage rate for any design basis accident, other than a SG tube rupture, shall not exceed the leakage rate assumed in the accident analysis in tenns oftotal leakage rate for all SGs and leakage rate for an individual SG Leakage is not to exceed 150 gpd per SG
- 3.
The operational LEAKAGE perfonnance criterion is specified in LCO 3.4.6.2, "Reactor Coolant System Operational LEAKAGE."
MILLSTONE - UNIT 2 6-30 Amendment No.;!99, 312
ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS 6.26 STEAM GENERATOR (SG) PROGRAM (Continued)
- c.
Provisions for SG tube plugging criteria: Tubes found by inservice inspection to contain flaws with a depth equal to or exceeding 40% ofthe nominal tube wall thickness shall be plugged.
- d.
Provisions for SG tube inspections: Periodic SG tube inspections shall be performed. The number and portions ofthe tubes inspected and methods of inspection shall be performed with the objective ofdetecting flaws of any type (e.g., volumetric flaws, axial and circumferential cracks) that may be present along the length of the tube, from the tube-to tubesheet weld at the tube inlet to the tube-to-tubesheet weld at the tube outlet, and that may satisfy the applicable tube plugging criteria. The tube-to-tubesheet weld is not part of the tube. In addition to meeting the requirements ofd.l., d.2, and d.3 below, the inspection scope, inspection methods, and inspection intervals shall be such as to ensure that SG tube integrity is maintained until the next SG inspection. A degradation assessment shall be performed to determine the type and location of flaws to which the tubes may be susceptible and, based on this assessment, to determine which inspection methods need to be employed and at what locations.
- 1.
Inspect 100% ofthe tubes in each SG during the first refueling outage following SG installation.
- 2.
After the first refueling outage following SG installation, inspect each SG at least every 72 effective full power months or at least every third refueling outage (whichever results in more frequent inspections). In addition, the minimum number of tubes inspected at each scheduled inspection shall be the number of tubes in all SGs divided by the number ofSG inspection outages scheduled in each inspection period as defined in a, b, c, and d below. Ifa degradation assessment indicates the potential for a type of degradation to occur at a location not previously inspected with a technique capable ofdetecting this type ofdegradation at this location and that may satisfy the applicable plugging criteria, the minimum number oflocations inspected with such a capable inspection technique during the remainder ofthe inspection period may be prorated. The fraction oflocations to be inspected for this potential type ofdegradation at this location at the end ofthe inspection period shall be no less than the ratio ofthe number oftimes the SG is scheduled to be inspected in the inspection period after the determination that a new form ofdegradation could potentially be occurring at this location divided by the total number oftimes the SG is scheduled to be inspected in the inspection period. Each inspection period defined below may be extended up to 3 effective full power months to include a SG inspection outage in an inspection period and the subsequent inspection period begins at the conclusion ofthe included SG inspection outage.
MILLSTONE - UNIT 2 6-31 Amendment No.;w9, 312
ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS 6.26 STEAM GENERATOR (SG) PROGRAM (Continued) a) After the first refueling outage following SG installation, inspect 100% ofthe tubes during the next 144 effective full power months. This constitutes the first inspection period; b) During the next 120 effective full power months, inspect 100% ofthe tubes.
This constitutes the second inspection period; c) During the next 96 effective full power months, inspect 100% of the tubes.
This constitutes the third inspection period; and d) During the remaining life of the SGs, inspect 100% of the tubes every 72 effective full power months. This constitutes the fourth and subsequent inspection periods.
- 3.
If crack indications are found in any SG tube, then the next inspection for each affected and potentially affected SG for the degradation mechanism that caused the crack indication shall not exceed 24 effective full power months or one refueling outage (whichever results in more frequent inspections). Ifdefinitive information, such as from examination of a pulled tube, diagnostic non-destructive testing, or engineering evaluation indicates that a crack-like indication is not associated with a crack(s), then the indication need not be treated as a crack.
- e.
Provisions for monitoring operational primary to secondary LEAKAGE.
MILLSTONE - UNIT 2 6-31a Amendment No. 312
UNITED STATES NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20555-0001 SAFETY EVALUATION BY THE OFFICE OF NUCLEAR REACTOR REGULATION RELATED TO AMENDMENT NO. 312 TO RENEWED FACILITY OPERATING LICENSE NO. DPR-65 DOMINION NUCLEAR CONNECTICUT, INC.
MILLSTONE POWER STATION, UNIT NO.2 DOCKET NO. 50-336
1.0 INTRODUCTION
By letter dated July 31, 2012, (Agencywide Documents Access and Management System (ADAMS) Accession Number ML12219A073), Dominion Nuclear Connecticut, Inc. (the licensee) proposed changes to the Technical Specifications (TSs) for Millstone Power Station Unit 2 (MPS2) to adopt U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)-approved Revision 2 to Technical Specifications Task Force (TSTF) Standard Technical Specifications (STS) Change Traveler TSTF-510, "Revision to Steam Generator [(SG)] Program Inspection Frequencies and Tube Sample Selection" (ADAMS Accession No. ML110610350). The proposed changes revise Limiting Condition for Operation (LCO) 3.4.5, "Steam Generator [SG] Tube Integrity,"
Specification 6.26, "Steam Generator (SG) Program," and Specification 6.9.1.9, "Steam Generator Tube Inspection Report," and include TS Bases changes that summarize and clarify the purpose of the TS. The specific changes concern SG inspection periods, and address applicable administrative changes and clarifications.
The licensee stated that the license amendment request (LAR) is consistent with the Notice of Availability of TSTF-51 0, Revision 2, announced in the Federal Register on October 27, 2011 (72 FR 66763) as part of the consolidated line item improvement process.
The current STS requirements in the above specifications were established in May 2005 with the NRC staff's approval of TSTF-449, Revision 4, "Steam Generator Tube Integrity" (NRC Federal Register Notice of Availability (70 FR 24126)). The TSTF-449 changes to the STS incorporated a new, largely performance-based approach for ensuring the integrity of the SG tubes is maintained. The performance-based requirements were supplemented by prescriptive requirements relating to tube inspections and tube repair limits to ensure that conditions adverse to quality are detected and corrected on a timely basis. As of September 2007, the TSTF-449, Revision 4, changes were adopted in the plant TS for all pressurized water reactors (PWRs).
The proposed changes in TSTF-51 0, Revision 2, reflect the licensees' early implementation experience with respect to the TSTF-449, Revision 4. TSTF-510 characterizes the changes as
- 2 editorial corrections, changes, and clarifications intended to improve internal consistency, consistency with implementing industry documents, and usability without changing the intent of the requirements. The proposed changes are an improvement to the existing SG inspection requirements and continue to provide assurance that the plant licensing basis will be maintained between SG inspections.
2.0 REGULATORY EVALUATION
The SG tubes in PWRs have a number of important safety functions. These tubes are an integral part of the reactor coolant pressure boundary (RCPB) and, as such, are relied upon to maintain primary system pressure and inventory. As part of the RCPB, the SG tubes are unique in that they are also relied upon as a heat transfer surface between the primary and secondary systems, such that residual heat can be removed from the primary system and are relied upon to isolate the radioactive fission products in the primary coolant from the secondary system. In addition, the SG tubes are relied upon to maintain their integrity to be consistent with the containment objectives of preventing uncontrolled fission product release under conditions resulting from core damage during severe accidents.
Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR) establishes the requirements with respect to the integrity of the SG tubing. Specifically, the General Design Criteria (GDC) in Appendix A to 10 CFR Part 50 state that the RCPB shall have "an extremely low probability of abnormal leakage... and of gross rupture" (GDC 14), "shall be designed with sufficient margin" (GDC 15 and 31), shall be of "the highest quality standards practical" (GDC 30), and shall be designed to permit "periodic inspection and testing... to assess... structural and leaktight integrity" (GDC 32).
The GDC included in Appendix A to 10 CFR Part 50 did not become effective until February 20, 1971. The Construction Permit for MPS2 was issued prior to February 20, 1971; consequently, this unit was not subject to GDC requirements. Section 1, Appendix 1A, "AEC [Atomic Energy CommiSSion] General Design Criteria for Nuclear Power Plants" of the Updated Final Safety Analysis Report (UFSAR) discusses the design of the station relative to the design criteria published in 1971. However, the following information demonstrates compliance with GDC 14, 15, 30, 31, and 32 of 10 CFR 50, Appendix A:
UFSAR Section 1, Appendix 1.A, "Criterion 14 - Reactor Coolant Pressure Boundary" states that the reactor coolant system components are designed in accordance with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Code,Section III, Pump and Valve Code, and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) B31.7. Quality control, inspection, and testing as required by these standards and allowable reactor pressure-temperature operations ensure the integrity of the reactor coolant system. The reactor coolant system components are considered Class I for seismic design.
UFSAR Section 1, Appendix 1.A, "Criterion 15 - Reactor Coolant System Design" states that the operating conditions established for the normal operation of the plant are discussed in the UFSAR and the control systems are designed to maintain the controlled plant variables within these operating limits, thereby ensuring that a satisfactory margin is maintained between the plant operating conditions and the design limits.
- 3 UFSAR Section 1, Appendix 1.A, "Criterion 30 - Quality of Reactor Coolant Pressure Boundary" states that the RPCB components have been designed, fabricated, erected and tested in accordance with the ASME Code Section III, 1971 through summer 1971 Addenda and ANSI B31.7, 1969 as specified in Criterion 14. Replacement steam generator subassemblies were fabricated in accordance with ASME Code Section III 1983 through summer 1984 Addenda. The replacement reactor vessel closure head, including all nozzles, is constructed in accordance with ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code,Section III, Subsection NBf 1998 Edition through 2000 Addenda.
UFSAR Section 1, Appendix 1.A, "Criterion 31 - Fracture Prevention of Reactor Coolant Pressure Boundary" states that all the reactor coolant pressure boundary components are constructed in accordance with the applicable codes and comply with the test and inspection requirements of these codes. These test inspection requirements assure that flaw sizes are limited so that the probability of failure by rapid propagation is extremely remote.
UFSAR Section 1, Appendix 1,A, "Criterion 32 - Inspection of Reactor Coolant Pressure Boundary" states that provisions are made for inspection, testing, and surveillance of the
. Reactor Coolant System boundary as required by ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code,Section XI.
To this end, 10 CFR 50.55a specifies that components which are part of the RCPB must meet the requirements for Class 1 components in Section III of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (Code). Section 50.55a further requires, in part, that throughout the service life of a PWR facility, ASME Code Class 1 components meet the requirements, except design and access provisions and pre-service examination requirements, in Section XI, "Rules for Inservice Inspection [(lSI)] of Nuclear Power Plant Components," of the ASME Code, to the extent practical. This requirement includes the inspection and repair criteria of Section XI of the ASME Code.
The regulation at 10 CFR 50,36, "Technical specifications," establishes the requirements related to the content of the TS. Pursuant to 10 CFR 50.36, TSs are required to include items in the following five categories related to station operation: (1) safety limits, limiting safety system settings, and limiting control settings; (2) LeOs; (3) SRs; (4) design features; and (5) administrative controls. LCOs and accompanying action statements and SRs in the STS relevant to SG tube integrity are in Specification 3.4.13, "RCS [reactor coolant system]
Operational Leakage," and Specification 3.4.20, "Steam Generator (SG) Tube Integrity." The SRs in the "Steam Generator (SG) Tube Integrity" specification reference the SG Program which is defined in the STS administrative controls.
The regulation at 10 CFR 50.36(c)(5) defines administrative controls as "the provisions relating to organization and management, procedures, recordkeeping, review and audit, and reporting necessary to assure the operation of the facility in a safe manner." Programs established by the licensee to operate the facility in a safe manner, including the SG Program, are listed in the administrative controls section of the TS. The SG Program is defined in Specification 6.26, while the reporting requirements relating to implementation of the SG Program are in Specification 6.9.1.9.
~ 4 ~
Specification 6.26 requires that an SG Program be established and implemented to ensure that SG tube integrity is maintained. SG tube integrity is maintained by meeting the performance criteria specified in TS 6.26.b for structural and leakage integrity, consistent with the plant design and licensing basis. Specification 6.26.a requires that a condition monitoring assessment be performed during each outage in which the SG tubes are inspected, to confirm that the performance criteria are being met. Specification 6.26.d includes provisions regarding the scope, frequency, and methods of SG tube inspections. These provisions require that the inspections be performed with the objective of detecting flaws of any type that (1) may be present along the length of a tube, from the tube-to-tubesheet weld at the tube inlet to the tube-to-tubesheet weld at the tube outlet, and (2) may satisfy the applicable tube repair criteria.
The applicable tube repair criteria, specified in TS 6.26.c, are that tubes found during lSI to contain flaws with a depth equal to or exceeding 40 percent of the nominal wall thickness shall be plugged.
3.0 TECHNICAL EVALUATION
3.1 Specification 6.26. "Steam Generator (SG) Program" Proposed Change:
The last sentence of the introductory paragraph currently states: "In addition, the Steam Generator Program shall include the following provisions:" The change would delete the word "provisions" such that the sentence would state: "In addition, the Steam Generator Program shall include the following:" The basis for this change is that subsequent paragraphs in Specification 6.26 start with "Provisions for... II and the word "provisions" in the introductory paragraph is duplicative.
Assessment:
The NRC staff has reviewed Specification 6.26 and agrees that the word, "provisions," in the introductory paragraph is duplicative. The NRC staff agrees that the change is administrative in nature, and therefore is acceptable.
3.2 Paragraph 6.26.b.1, "Structural integrity performance criterion" The first sentence currently states:
All in-service steam generator tubes shall retain structural integrity over the full range of normal operating conditions (including startup, operation in the power range, hot standby, and cool down and all anticipated transients included in the design specification) and design basis accidents.
-5 Proposed Change: Revise the sentence as follows:
All in-service steam generator tubes shall retain structural integrity over the full range of normal operating conditions (including startup, operation in the power range, hot standby, and cool down), all anticipated transients included in the design specification, and design basis accidents.
The basis for the change is that this sentence inappropriately includes anticipated transients in the description of normal operating conditions.
Assessment:
The NRC staff agrees the current wording is incorrect and that anticipated transients should be differentiated from normal operating conditions. Therefore, the NRC staff finds the change acceptable.
3.3.
Paragraph 6.26.c, "Provisions for SG tube repair criteria," Paragraph 6.26.d, "Provisions for SG tube inspections," LCO 3.4.5, "Steam Generator Tube Integrity." SR 4.4.5.2, "Steam Generator Tube Integrity" Proposed Change:
Change all references to "tube repair criteria" to "tube plugging criteria." This change is intended to be consistent with the treatment of SG tube repair throughout Specification 6.26.
Assessment:
The NRC staff finds that the proposed change provides a more accurate label of the criteria and, therefore, adds clarity to the specification. This is because one of two actions must be taken when the criteria are exceeded. One action is to remove the tube from service by plugging the tube at both tube ends. The alternative action is to repair the tube, but only if such a repair is permitted by paragraph 6.26.c. Therefore, the NRC staff finds the change acceptable.
3.4 Paragraph 6.26.d, "Provisions for SG tube inspections" Proposed Change:
Change the term "assessment of degradation" to "degradation assessment" to be consistent with the terminology used in industry program documents.
Assessment:
The NRC staff agrees that the terminology should be consistent and finds the change acceptable.
-6 3.5 Paragraph 6.26.d.1 Proposed change:
The paragraph currently states: "Inspect 100% of the tubes in each SG during the first refueling outage following SG replacement." The change would replace "SG replacement" with "SG installation." The basis for the change is that it will allow the SG Program to apply to both existing plants and new plants.
Assessment:
The NRC staff agrees the SG Program can apply to both existing and new plants. Therefore, the NRC staff finds the change acceptable.
3.6 Paragraph 6.26.d.2 for plants with SGs with alloy 690 thermally treated (n) tubes The paragraph currently states:
Inspect 100% of the tubes at sequential periods of 144, 108, 72, and, thereafter, 60 effective full power months. The first sequential period shall be considered to begin after the first inservice inspection of the SGs. In addition, inspect 50% of the tubes by the refueling outage nearest the midpoint of the period and the remaining 50% by the refueling outage nearest the end of the period. No SG shall operate for more than 72 effective full power months or three refueling outages (whichever is less) without being inspected.
Proposed Change: Revise the paragraph as follows:
After the first refueling outage following SG installation, inspect each SG at least every 72 effective full power months or at least every third refueling outage (whichever results in more frequent inspections). In addition, the minimum number of tubes inspected at each scheduled inspection shall be the number of tubes in all SGs divided by the number of SG inspection outages scheduled in each inspection period as defined in a, b, C, and d below. If a degradation assessment indicates the potential for a type of degradation to occur at a location not previously inspected with a technique capable of detecting this type of degradation at this location and that may satisfy the applicable tube plugging criteria, the minimum number of locations inspected with such a capable inspection technique during the remainder of the inspection period may be prorated.
The fraction of locations to be inspected for this potential type of degradation at this location at the end of the inspection period shall be no less than the ratio of the number of times the SG is scheduled to be inspected in the inspection period after the determination that a new form of degradation could potentially be occurring at this location divided by the total number of times the SG is scheduled to be inspected in the inspection period. Each inspection period defined below may be extended up to 3 effective full power months to include a SG inspection outage in an inspection period
- 7 and the subsequent inspection period begins at the conclusion of the included SG inspection outage.
a) After the first refueling outage following SG installation, inspect 100% of the tubes during the next 144 effective full power months. This constitutes the first inspection period; b) During the next 120 effective full power months, inspect 100% of the tubes.
This constitutes the second inspection period; and c) During the next 96 effective full power months, inspect 100% of the tubes.
This constitutes the third inspection period; and d) During the remaining life of the SGs, inspect 100% of the tubes every 72 effective full power months. This constitutes the fourth and subsequent inspection periods.
Assessment:
Regarding paragraph 6.26.d.2, the licensee proposes to move the first two sentences, "Inspect 100% of the tubes at sequential periods of 144,108,72, and, thereafter, 60 effective full power months (EFPM). The first sequential period shall be considered to begin after the first inservice inspection of the SGs," of paragraph 6.26.d.2 to the inspection periods as specified in a, b, c and d of the revised paragraph, and make editorial changes to improve clarity. The NRC staff finds these changes to be of a clarifying nature, not changing the current intent of these two sentences. However, the license amendment request also includes three proposed changes to when inspections are performed as follows:
The second inspection period would be revised from 108 to 120 EFPM.
The third and subsequent inspection periods would be revised from 72 to 96 EFPM.
The fourth and subsequent inspection periods would be revised from 60 to 72 EFPM.
The licensee characterizes these changes as marginal increases for consistency with typical fuel cycle lengths that better accommodate the scheduling of inspections. The NRC staff observes that depending on the actual plant inspection schedule, these changes could impact the number of inspections in a given period, as well as the sample size. However, inspection sample sizes will continue to be subject to paragraph 6.26.d.2, which states that in addition to meeting the requirements of paragraph 6.26.d.2, the inspection scope, inspection methods, and inspection intervals shall be such as to ensure SG tube integrity is maintained until the next scheduled inspection. Therefore. the NRC staff concludes that with the proposed changes to the length of the second and subsequent inspection periods, compliance with the SG program requirements in Specification 6.26.d.2 will continue to ensure both adequate inspection scopes and tube integrity for the reasons addressed below.
For each inspection period, paragraph 6.26.d.2 currently requires that at least 50 percent of the tubes be inspected by the refueling outage nearest to the mid-point of the inspection period and
- 8 the remaining 50 percent by the refueling outage nearest the end of the inspection period. The NRC staff notes that if there are not an equal number of inspections in the first half and second half of the inspection period, the average minimum sampling requirement may be markedly different for inspections in the first half of the inspection period, as compared to those in the second half, even when there are uniform intervals between each inspection. For example, a hypothetical plant in the second (120 EFPM) inspection period with a scheduled 36-month interval (two 18-month fuel cycles) between each inspection would currently be required to inspect 50 percent of the tubes by the refueling outage nearest the midpoint of the inspection period, which would be the third refueling outage in the period (after 54 EFPM), 6 months before the mid-point (assuming an inspection was performed at the very end of the 144 EFPM inspection period). However, since no inspection is scheduled for that outage (because inspections take place every other outage - once every 36 months), then the full 50 percent sample must be performed during the inspection scheduled for the second refueling outage in the period. Two inspections would be scheduled to occur in the second half of the inspection period, at 72 and 108 months into the inspection period. Thus, the current sampling requirement could be satisfied by performing a 25 percent sample during each of these inspections or other combinations of sampling (e.g., 10 percent during one and 40 percent in the other) totaling 50 percent. The NRC staff concludes that there is no basis for the minimum initial sample size to potentially have to vary so much from inspection to inspection. The licensee proposes to revise this requirement such that the minimum sample size for a given inspection in a given inspection period is 100 percent divided by the number of scheduled inspections during that inspection period. For the above example, the proposed change would result in a uniform initial minimum sample size of 33.3 percent for each of the three scheduled inspections during the inspection period. The NRC staff concludes this proposed revision to be an improvement to the existing requirement, since it provides a more consistent minimum initial sampling requirement.
The proposed third and fourth sentences of paragraph 6.26.d.2 state, "If a degradation assessment indicates the potential for a type of degradation to occur at a location not previously inspected with a technique capable of detecting this type of degradation at this location and that may satisfy the applicable tube plugging criteria, the minimum number of locations inspected with such a capable inspection technique during the remainder of the inspection period may be prorated. The fraction of locations to be inspected for this potential type of degradation at this location, at the end of the inspection period, shall be no less than the ratio of the number of times the SG is scheduled to be inspected in the inspection period after the determination that a new form of degradation could potentially be occurring at this location divided by the total number of times the SG is scheduled to be inspected in the inspection period." This addresses the possibility that a degradation assessment in accordance with paragraph 6.26.d.2 will indicate that the tubing may be susceptible to a type of degradation at a location not previously inspected with a technique capable of detecting that type of degradation at that location. For example, new information from another similar plant becomes available, indicating the potential for circumferential cracking at a specific location on the tube. Previous degradation assessments had not identified the potential for this type of degradation at this location. Thus, previous inspections of this location had not been performed with a technique capable of detecting circumferential cracks. However, now that the potential for circumferential cracking has been identified at this location, paragraph 6.26.d.2 requires an inspection with a method capable of detection of a crack that may satisfy the applicable tube plugging criteria.
-9 Furthermore, suppose this inspection is performed for the first time during the third of four SG inspections scheduled for the 144 EFPM inspection period. In this case, the current paragraph 6.26.d.2 does not specifically identify whether 100 percent of the tubes at this location need to be inspected by the end of the 144 EFPM inspection period, or whether a prorated approach may be taken. The NRC staff addressed this question in Issue 1 of NRC Regulatory Information Summary (RIS) 2009-04, "Steam Generator Tube Inspection Requirements," dated April 3, 2009 (ADAMS Accession No. ML083470557), as follows:
Issue 1: A licensee may identify a new potential degradation mechanism after the first inspection in a sequential period. If this occurs, what are the expectations concerning the scope of examinations for this new potential degradation mechanism for the remainder of the period (e.g., do 100 percent of the tubes have to be inspected by the end of the period or can the sample be prorated for the remaining part of the period)?
[NRC Staff Position:] The TS contain requirements that are a mixture of prescriptive and performance-based elements. Paragraph lid" of these requirements indicates that the inspection scope, inspection methods, and inspection intervals shall be sufficient to ensure that SG tube integrity is maintained until the next SG inspection. Paragraph lid" is a performance-based element because it describes the goal of the inspections but does not specify how to achieve the goal. However, paragraph "d.2" is a prescriptive element because it specifies that the licensee must inspect 1 00 percent of the tubes at specified periods.
If an assessment of degradation performed after the first inspection in a sequential period results in a licensee concluding that a new degradation mechanism (not anticipated during the prior inspections in that period) may potentially occur, the scope of inspections in the remaining portion of the period should be sufficient to ensure SG tube integrity for the period between inspections.
In addition, to satisfy the prescriptive requirements of paragraph "d.2" that the licensee must inspect 1 00 percent of the tubes within a specified period, a prorated sample for the remaining portion of the period is appropriate for this potentially new degradation mechanism. This prorated sample should be such that if the licensee had implemented it at the beginning of the period, the TS requirement for the 100 percent inspection in the entire period (for this degradation mechanism) would have been met. A prorated sample is appropriate because (1) the licensee would have performed the prior inspections in this sequential period conSistently with the requirements, and (2) the scope of inspections must be sufficient to ensure that the licensee maintains SG tube integrity for the period between inspections.
The NRC staff finds that relocation of information in Sentences 3 and 4, as described above, clarifies the existing requirement, such that it is consistent with the NRC staff's position from RIS 2009-04 and is, therefore, acceptable.
The proposed fifth sentence in paragraph 6.26.d.2 states, !lEach inspection period defined below may be extended up to 3 effective full power months to include a SG inspection outage in
- 10 an inspection period and the subsequent inspection period begins at the conclusion of the included SG inspection outage." Allowing extension of the inspection periods by up to an additional 3 EFPM potentially impacts the average tube inspection sample size to be implemented during a given inspection in that period. For example, if four SG inspections are scheduled to occur within the nominal 144 EFPM period, the minimum sample size for each of the four inspections could average as little as 25 percent of the tube population. If a fifth inspection can be included within the period by extending the period by 3 EFPM, then the minimum sample size for each of the five inspections could average as little as 20 percent of the tube population. Since the subsequent period begins at the end of the included SG inspection outage, the proposed change does not impact the required frequency of SG inspection.
Required tube inspection sample sizes are also subject to the performance-based requirement in paragraph 6.26.d, which states, in part, that in addition to meeting the requirements of paragraph 6.26.d.1, d.2, and d.3, "the inspection scope, inspection methods, and inspection intervals shall be such as to ensure that SG tube integrity is maintained until the next SG inspection." This requirement remains unchanged under the proposal. The NRC staff concludes the proposed fifth sentence, by allowing the potential for smaller sample sizes, and involves only a relatively minor relaxation to the existing sampling requirements in paragraph 6.26.d.2. However, the performance based requirements in 6.26.d ensure that adequate inspection sampling will be performed to ensure tube integrity is maintained. Thus, the NRC staff concludes that the proposed change is acceptable.
Finally, the first sentence of the proposed revision to paragraph 6.26.d.2, "After the first refueling outage following SG installation, inspect each SG at least every 72 effective full power months or at least every third refueling outage (whichever results in more frequent inspections),"
replaces the last sentence of the current paragraph 6.26.d.2, "No SG shall operate for more than 72 effective full power months or three refueling outages (whichever is less) without being inspected." Both versions establish the minimum allowable SG inspection frequency as at least every 72 EFPM or at least every other refueling outage (whichever results in more frequent inspections). This minimum inspection frequency in the proposed version is unchanged from the current requirement in the MPS2 TSs. The NRC staff finds that the wording changes in the sentence are of an editorial and clarifying nature and are not material, such that the current intent of the requirement is unchanged. Thus, the NRC staff concludes the proposed change is acceptable.
3.7 Paragraph 6.26.d.3 (for plants with SG tubing fabricated from alloy 690 TT)
The first sentence of paragraph 6.26.d.3 currently states:
If crack indications are found in any SG tube, then the next inspection for each SG for the degradation mechanism that caused the crack indication shall not exceed 24 effective full power months or one refueling outage (whichever is less).
Proposed Change: Revise this sentence as follows:
If crack indications are found in any SG tube, then the next inspection for each affected and potentially affected SG for the degradation mechanism that caused the crack
- 11 indication shall not exceed 24 effective full power months or one refueling outage (whichever results in more frequent inspections).
The proposed change is replacing the words "for each SG" with the words "for each affected and potentially affected SG." The licensee states that the existing wording can be misinterpreted. The licensee further states that the intention is that those SGs that are affected and those SGs that are potentially affected must be inspected for the degradation mechanism that caused the crack indication. However, some licensees have questioned whether the current reference to "each SG" requires only the SGs that are affected to be inspected for the degradation mechanism. The proposed revision is intended to clarify the intent of the requirement.
Assessment:
Paragraph 6.26.d.2 permits SG inspection intervals to extend over multiple fuel cycles for SGs with alloy 690 TT tubing, assuming that such intervals can be implemented while ensuring tube integrity is maintained in accordance with paragraph 6.26.d. However, stress corrosion cracks may not become detectable by inspection until the crack depth approaches the tube repair lirnit.
In addition, stress corrosion cracks may exhibit high growth rates. For these reasons, once cracks have been found in any SG tube, paragraph 6.26.d.3 restricts the allowable interval to the next scheduled inspection to 24 EFPM or one refueling outage (whichever is less). The intent of this requirement is that it applies to the affected SG and to any other SG which may be potentially affected by the degradation mechanism that caused the known crack(s). For example, a root cause analysis in response to the initial finding of one or more cracks might reveal that the crack(s) are associated with a manufacturing anomaly which causes locally high residual stress which in turn caused the early initiation of cracks at the affected locations. If it can be established that the extent of condition of the manufacturing anomaly applies only to one SG and not the others, then the NRC staff agrees that only the affected SG needs to be inspected within 24 EFPM or one refueling cycle in accordance with paragraph 6.26.d.2. The next scheduled inspections of the other SGs will continue to be subject to all other provisions of paragraph 6.26.d. The NRC staff finds the proposed change to paragraph 6.26.d.3 acceptable, because it clarifies the intent the paragraph.
3.8 Specification 6.9.1.9, "Steam Generator Tube Inspection Report" This specification lists items a. through g. to be included in a report which shall be submitted within 180 days after initial entry into MODE 4 following completion of an inspection performed in accordance with the Specification 6.26, "Steam Generator (SG) Program."
Proposed Change:
Item b. currently reads: "Active degradation mechanisms found... " and will be revised to read:
"Degradation mechanisms found... "
Item e. currently reads: "Number of tubes plugged during the inspection outage for each active degradation mechanism... " to be revised to read: "Number of tubes plugged during the inspection outage for each degradation mechanism..."
- 12 Item f. currently reads, "Total number and percentage of tubes plugged to date... " to be revised to read: "The number and percentage of tubes plugged to date, and the effective plugging percentage in each steam generator..."
Assessment:
This proposal would delete the word "Active" in items b. and e above. Thus, all degradation mechanisms found, whether deemed to be active or not, would now be reportable. The NRC staff finds the proposed change acceptable. The NRC staff finds the proposal to add an additional reporting requirement, the effective plugging percentage in each steam generator, to item f. to be acceptable.
4.0 STATE CONSULTATION
In accordance with the Commission's regulations, the Connecticut State official was notified of the proposed issuance of the amendment. The State official had no comments.
5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATION
The amendment changes a requirement with respect to installation or use of a facility component located within the restricted area as defined in 10 CFR Part 20. The NRC staff has determined that the amendment involves no significant increase in amounts, and no significant change in the types of any effluents that may be released offsite, and that there is no significant increase in individual or cumulative occupational radiation exposure. The Commission has previously issued a proposed finding that the amendment involves no significant hazards consideration, and there has been no public comment on such finding (77 FR 53926). Accordingly, the amendment meets the eligibility criteria for categorical exclusion set forth in 10 CFR 51.22(c)(9). Pursuant to 10 CFR 51.22{b), no environmental impact statement or environmental assessment need be prepared in connection with the issuance of the amendment.
6.0 CONCLUSION
The Commission has concluded, based on the considerations discussed above, that (1) there is reasonable assurance that the health and safety of the public will not be endangered by operation in the proposed manner, (2) there is reasonable assurance that such activities will be conducted in compliance with the Commission's regulations, and (3) the issuance of the amendment will not be inimical to the common defense and security or to the health and safety of the public.
Principal Contributor: K. Bucholtz Date:
January 4, 2013
January 4, 2013 Mr. David A. Heacock President and Chief Nuclear Officer Dominion Nuclear Innsbrook Technical Center 5000 Dominion Boulevard Glen Allen, VA 23060-6711
SUBJECT:
MILLSTONE POWER STATION UNIT NO.2-ISSUANCE OF AMENDMENT RE: ADOPT TSTF-510, "REVISION TO STEAM GENERATOR PROGRAM INSPECTION FREQUENCIES AND TUBE SAMPLE SELECTION" (TAC NO. ME9188)
Dear Mr. Heacock:
The Commission has issued the enclosed Amendment No. 312 to Renewed Facility Operating License No. DPR-65 for the Millstone Power Station, Unit No.2, in response to your application dated July 31, 2012.
The amendment would revise Technical Specification (TS) Limiting Condition for Operation 3.4.5, "Steam Generator Tube Integrity," TS 6.26, "Steam Generator (SG) Program,"
and TS 6.9.1.9, "Steam Generator Tube Inspection Report," and include TS Bases' changes that summarize and clarify the purpose of the TS in accordance with TS Task Force Traveler 510, "Revision to Steam Generator Program Inspection Frequencies and Tube Sample Selection."
A copy of the related Safety Evaluation is also enclosed. Notice of Issuance will be included in the Commission's biweekly Federal Register notice.
Sincerely, IRA!
James Kim, Project Manager Plant Licensing Branch 1-1 Division of Operating Reactor Licensing Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation Docket No. 50-336
Enclosures:
- 1. Amendment No. 312 to DPR-65
- 2. Safety Evaluation cc w/encls: Distribution via Listserv DISTRIBUTION:
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BHarris GWilson JKim Date 12/11/12 12/10/12 11/20/12 12/18/12 114/13 1/4/13.