- Site: Hinkley Point C
- IR number: 22-011
- Date: May 2022
- LC numbers: 17, 19
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
The aim of the intervention was to gain confidence that NNB Generation Company (HPC) Ltd, the licensee, had adequate arrangements in place for compliance with Licence Condition (LC) 17 (management systems) and LC 19 (construction or installation of new plant) in relation to the manufacture of primary circuit components at Framatome Saint Marcel, the main coolant line assemblies at Framatome Chalon and end of manufacturing records.
Interventions carried out by ONR
The contract for the Hinkley Point C (HPC) nuclear primary circuit components lies with Framatome, with most of the primary circuits being fabricated at Framatome Saint Marcel while the main coolant lines (MCLs) are manufactured nearby at Chalon. These facilities have been the subjects of interventions by ONR. In this intervention, I reviewed documents and examined manufacturing activities and quality arrangements for the manufacture of primary circuit components, including main coolant lines, for HPC at these facilities.
Key findings, inspector’s opinions and reasons for judgments made
I have made checks on the licensee’s oversight of the manufacturing of primary circuit components at the Framatome facilities. I have also reviewed the arrangements to confirm the quality of forgings manufactured at Japan Steel Works (JSW). In general, I have found that the oversight and arrangements were acceptable; however, I have concerns over the administration, security and preservation of some of the records used to compile end of manufacturing reports.
Conclusion of intervention
I conclude that the licensee has demonstrated adequate arrangements for compliance with LC 19 in relation to MCL welding; however, given the shortfalls identified that affect the security of records used to compile end of manufacturing reports I have raised a regulatory issue, to oversee their resolution. An inspection rating of Amber has therefore been assigned against LC 17 (management systems).
Detailed sampling of records provided during, and post intervention identified a number of areas where further clarification was requested from the licensee. Where appropriate, this will be followed up during routine engagements.