ABSTRACT An alternative definition for the assessment point parameter of the R6 defect assessment procedure is proposed, for combined primary and secondary loading. This alternative definition removes the requirement to calculate a plasticity correction factor for secondary stresses, ρ (or V), used in the conventional R6 definition of . To compare these definitions, both the R6 procedure and the alternative method are presented as Crack Driving Force (CDF) estimation schemes. The required inputs to these estimation schemes have been determined from finite element analyses, for the particular case, of a thick-walled cylinder with a fully circumferential internal defect and subjected to internal pressure and a radial through-wall temperature gradient. Comparisons of CDF estimates with those determined from full inelastic finite element analyses have shown, for the cases studied, that both the R6 and alternative approaches provide conservative estimates of CDF compared to those obtained from finite element analyses, with the degree of conservatism far greater for the conventional R6 approach. Further finite element validation with different geometries, loadings and material properties is required before the alternative procedure could be considered for inclusion in the R6 defect assessment procedure as an alternative to the procedure of the main section of the document
