Benchmark analysis on PFM analysis codes for aged piping of nuclear power plants

Probabilistic fracture mechanics is a rational methodology in structural reliability evaluation and risk assessment for aged piping in nuclear power plants. Several probabilistic fracture mechanical analysis codes have been improved or developed in Japan. To verify the reliability and applicability of two of these codes, we did a benchmark analysis using their basic functions in consideration of representative piping systems in nuclear power plants and typical aging mechanisms. Based on the analysis results, we concluded that the analysis results of these two codes are in good agreement.