Examples of interaction between fracture mechanics and other safety-related requirements derived from SIDES

The structural reliability of safety-related components throughout the whole plant service life is of paramount importance. This fact must be fully taken into account in the overall safety strategy for the liquid metal fast breeder reactor (LMFBR). The demonstration of structural integrity is facilitated if it is carried out within the framework of the structural integrity demonstration strategy (SIDES). The lines of defence (LOD) method enables this demonstration to be undertaken in different ways. Complementary LOD are based on break-exclusion, leak-before-break and leak-tightness concepts. Fracture mechanics represents an important part of the strategy. However, a full application of fracture mechanics to the LMFBR requires further R&D work.