Evaluation of non-destructive examination requirements and challenges for small modular reactors

This study evaluates the applicability of Non-Destructive Examination (NDE) methods to the BWRX-300, i-SMR, and Rolls-Royce SMR Small Modular Reactor (SMR) designs, as well as to Generation IV concepts: GTHTR300, IMSR 400, and 4S. The assessment considers plant design, structural materials, and manufacturing technologies to identify corresponding NDE requirements for both manufacturing and in-service inspections. The findings suggest that, for near-term deployable SMRs, existing inspection methods used in the conventional large-scale nuclear power plants remain applicable. However, the introduction of new materials, novel reactor designs, advanced manufacturing techniques, and the modular design, may require adaptations or development of new NDE approaches.