Reference Case: Extensive Inspection Services for Nuclear Power Plant - Taiwan

With over 20 years experience in the nuclear power industry, Area Energy, Inc. is a nuclear power plant EPC provider and one of seven subsidiaries of the AREA GROUP in Taiwan. The construction project of the Lungmen Nuclear Power Plant (also called Fourth Nuclear Power Plant) in the rural district of Gongliao Township near Keelung, in the north of Taiwan, which began in 1999, was expected to be completed by the end of 2004. However, interruptions by Taiwan’s government caused significant delays.

Taipower needed a reliable Authorized Nuclear Inspection company to conduct comprehensive inspection services on the plant’s site before its scheduled launch in 2015.

Founded more than 140 years ago, TÜV Rheinland is a global leader in independent inspection services, ensuring quality and safety for people, the environment and technology in nearly all aspects of life.

We inspect technical equipment, products and services, oversee projects and help to shape processes for companies around the world. Since 2006, we have been a member of the United Nations Global Compact to promote sustainability and combat corruption.

We offer extensive energy sector experience, providing specialized solutions for all types of power plants –conventional, renewable and nuclear - from the early stages of authorization and construction all the way through to operation and decommissioning.

Six Authorized Nuclear Inspectors at TÜV Rheinland were appointed to complete the plant inspection services. First, to check the safety and reliability of the pressure equipment and material in the power plant, we conducted on-site inspection of the standard welding procedures according to the specifications of the Welding Procedure Committee, the ASME Code and other applicable welding codes. Our experts also verified the fit-up procedures and conducted a series of testing services such as hydrostatic tests.

Then we reviewed several documents and reports such as quality control plans of the nuclear plant, NDE and non-conformity reports, as well as diverse records and material identification documentation. The aim was to verify the reliability of the reports and confirm that the plant was properly documented. Finally, we conducted a series of inspections and verifications at selected points of the nuclear power plant to ensure general quality and safety on site.

Read more about our Solutions for Power Plants

TÜV Rheinland supported AREA Energy, Inc. and Taipower by providing:

• Experienced and reliable Authorized Nuclear Inspectors (ANI).

• Flexible and comprehensive nuclear power plant inspection services.

• Tailored solutions at every stage of the plant’s construction .