SIAM XLPR V1.0 Project Report

Abstract

This document describes the probabilistic framework developed for the Structural Integrity Assessments Modular – Extremely Low Probability of Rupture (SIAM-xLPR) software tool at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), which supports the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s initiative to develop a risk-informed alternative to the current leak before break assessment methodology. The new methodology will provide a tool that can directly assess the probability of rupture in nuclear power plants’ primary water piping systems. SIAM-xLPR is a modular-based assessment tool that incorporates a prototype xLPR model assembled from new and existing fracture mechanics models and software. xLPR represents one of the four subsystems currently installed in the ORNL-developed SIAM Problem-solving Environment. The prototype SIAM-xLPR models and software modules are linked within a probabilistic framework developed using open-source languages and software libraries.