During the recent repair phase an in-vessel horizontal weld build-up was applied over a backing strip. This technique will also be used on the next weld repair site. Welders practice welding using the horizontal welding tools in order to be qualified to conduct the next repair.
The project team continues to work with third-party experts on finalizing detailed repair procedures for the next sequence of repairs. Work is also being conducted to improve the overall reliability of key NRU reactor systems.
AECL said that every effort is being made to return the NRU to service as soon as possible. However, the program to return the NRU to service is driven by safety, producing a quality repair, conservative decision-making and completing all of the necessary analysis before executing any of the repair.
Guidance on the duration of the shutdown continues to be founded on evidence available, including the analysis of inspection data, progress on repair strategies and path requirements for restart after an extended shutdown. NRU’s targeted return-to-service has been updated to April.
