Analysis of Failure Causes for Check Valves

역지밸브의 고장 원인 분석

Check valves playa vital role in the operation and protection of nuclear power plants. Check valves failure in nuclear power plants often lead to a plant transient or trip. An overview of the failure history of check valves needs to identify key area where resources can be best applied to further improve their reliability, and provide cost effective means for failure reduction. The analysis of historical failure data gives information on the populations of various types of check valves, the systems they are installed in, failure modes, effects, methods of detection, and the mechanisms of the failures. The results presented are based on information derived from operating records, nuclear industry reports, manufacturer supplied information. A majority of check valve failures are caused by improper application. Failure modes are identified for swing and lift check valves. Failures involving improper seating and valve disc stuck comprised the largest percentage of failures.