Dimensions – 60’ x 14’ cylindrical containment vessel module containing reactor and steam generator

The concept of small modular reactors isn’t brand new but it has recently attracted new attention from Wall Street, and even from Energy Secretary Steven Chu. One of the companies that sees promise in these systems is NuScale Power. They’re offering nuclear stations built in 45-megawatt modules — each an independent little reactor. CEO Paul Lorenzini discusses the technology.


NuScale system details

Thermal capacity – 160 Mwt
Electrical capacity – 45 Mwe
Capacity factor – > 90 percent
Dimensions – 60’ x 14’ cylindrical containment vessel module containing reactor and steam generator
Weight – ~ 300 tons as shipped from fabrication
Transportation – Barge, truck or train
Manufacturing – Can be forged and fabricated at any mid-size facility
Cost – Numerous advantages due to simplicity, modular design, volume manufacturing and shorter construction times
Fuel – Standard LWR fuel in 17 x 17 configuration, each assembly 6 feet in length; 24-month refueling cycle with fuel enriched at 4.95 percent
Benefits of the NuScale technology

Light-water reactor design is based upon existing knowledge base and known technology for both the industry and the NRC.
Small, modular nuclear power plant that can increase size and capacity incrementally over time by adding modules at a multi-module plant.
Owners can co-locate multiple units at one site – up to 12 units at single location.
Simple design – passive cooling enhances safety.
All manufacturing can be done in the U.S. at multiple locations.
Shorter time from COL to COD.
Online refueling provides for constant reliability and uptime.
Regulatory procedures and timeline

Licensing – Requires federal U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to approve Design Certification for reactor and Construction & Operating License prior to construction. Initial pre-application review meeting was held with the NRC in July 2008. NuScale anticipates filing Design Certification application in early 2012.
Initial Operations – NuScale forecasts the first plant can be online producing electricity as early as 2018.

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