Guidelines for reducing snubbers on nuclear piping systems

Current industry practices in the design of nuclear piping systems have led to an excessive use of snubbers. Recent emphasis on maximizing the reliability of piping systems, escalating requirements for in-service inspection and testing of snubbers, and problems that some snubbers have recently experienced, all have shown the importance of minimizing the use of snubbers to those that are needed. This paper summarizes work done to develop technical guidelines, and criteria to help utilities plan snubber reduction programs. Recommendations are also provided for industry activities to justify code and regulatory changes that will allow snubber removal beyond the guidelines presented.