A Review of Ghana Research Reactor-1 (GHARR-1) Component Aging Degradation Problems and Ways of Mitigation

GHARR-1 facility is a miniature neutron source reactor with a rated power of 30 kW. GHARR-1 was commissioned on 8th March, 1995. The facility has been operating using the micro-computer closed loop system (MCCLS) and the control console (CC) for 19 years. Age-related degradation effects in safety-related systems of nuclear reactors are managed to prevent safety margins from eroding below the acceptable limits provided in reactors design. This paper, therefore, provides an update on managing the safety aspects of ageing of structures, systems, and components (SSC) of GHARR-1. Managing the safety aspects of research reactor ageing requires a proactive, systematic, and integrated ageing management approach for the coordination of all activities relating to control, monitoring, and mitigation of ageing degradation of SSC through the life cycle of GHARR-1. This paper outlines the ageing management programme and mitigation practices. Strategies for the ageing management include periodic safety reviews, design features for components and unit replacement, and succession planning. Information sharing with other operating organizations is one of the means considered by GHARR-1 to attain excellence. This paper again concisely reviews and integrates information developed by other ageing management studies and other available information related to understanding and managing age-related degradation effects.