The RSK started the consultations on a statement on the strength theories within the scope of application of the KTA standards in connection with the re-evaluation of components and systems; here: on the issue of the optional applicability of the strength theories according to von Mises (maximum distortion energy theory (Gestaltänderungsenergiehypothese - GEH) and Tresca (maximum shear stress theory (Schubspannungshypothese, SH) in the KTA standards for pipes. The discussion concentrated on the

questions arising from the advisory request of the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) “Which strength theory may be applied for the determination of the required wall thickness of pipes for German nuclear power plants in accordance with the state of the art in science and technology?“ and “Under which prerequisites and boundary conditions will deviations from it be permitted in accordance with the state of the art in science and technology?”, and
considerations of the RSK to limit the statement to pipes of the pressure-retaining boundary and the systems outside the primary circuit of code class A1 according to KTA-Standard 3211.2.

The RSK will continue its discussions on its 410th meeting on 24.07.2008.