Resolution of Generic Safety Issues: NMSS-0003. Corrosion of Sealed Sources Caused by Sensitization of Stainless Steel Source Capsules During Shipment ( NUREG-0933, Main Report with Supplements 1–34 )

DESCRIPTION

This issue was identified¹⁷⁰⁰ by NMSS with the discovery of intergranular corrosion in one manufacturer's 316L stainless steel source used in Category IV irradiator pools. Analysis of data and reports provided by the manufacturer revealed that the 316L stainless steel sources were heat sensitized as a result of improper loading in their shipping containers. The heat generated by the high activity sources resulted in higher than normal temperatures inside the containers. The combination of these higher temperatures and poor quality pool water made the sensitized stainless steel vulnerable to intergranular corrosion.

CONCLUSION

The issue was resolved¹⁷⁰¹ with the issuance of IN 96-54.¹⁷⁰⁴