Life management strategy

The Indian PHWRs where loose fit garter springs and Zircaloy-2 pressure tubes have been used are having both contacting as well as non-contacting pressure tubes in service. A comprehensive strategy evolved with the operating experience over a period of time, as described below in Fig. A. I.1 is being followed for taking safety related decisions with regard to both of them.

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Fig. A. I.1. Zircaloy-2 Coolant Channel Life Management Strategy