This standard applies to the reactor physics
tests that are performed following a refueling
or other core alteration of a PWR for which
nuclear design calculations are required. This
standard does not address the physics test program
for the initial core of a commercial PWR.
This standard specifies the minimum acceptable
startup reactor physics test program and
acceptable test methods to determine if the operating
characteristics of the core are consistentconsistent
with the design predictions, which provides
assurance that the core can be operated as designed.
This standard does not address surveillance
of reactor physics parameters during
operation or other required tests such as mechanical
tests of system components ~for example,
the rod drop time test!, visual verification
requirements for fuel assembly loading, or the
calibration of instrumentation or control systems
~even though these tests are an integral
part of an overall program to ensure that the
core behaves as designed!.
This standard assumes that the same previously
accepted analytical methods are used for
both the design of the reactor core and the
startup test predictions. It also assumes that
the expected operation of the core will fall within
the historical database established for the plant
and0or sister plants.
When major changes are made in the core design,
the test program should be reviewed to
determine if more extensive testing is needed.
Typical changes that might fall in this category
include the initial use of novel fuel cycle designs,
significant changes in fuel enrichments,
fuel assembly design changes, burnable absorber
design changes, and cores resulting from
unplanned short cycles. Changes such as these
may lead to operation in regions outside of the
plant’s experience database and therefore may
necessitate expanding the test program.