The Egyptian Nuclear Power Plants Authority announced on Saturday that it has successfully installed the lower part of the reactor pit for the third nuclear unit at El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant. This component is a crucial element in the construction of the plant's reactor. The lower part of the reactor pit is a cylindrical steel component manufactured with high precision according to strict production requirements.
The installed component weighs approximately 130.85 tons, with a diameter of 5465 mm and a length of 3820 mm. Its dimensions are designed to fit perfectly within the dry protection structure, which has an internal diameter of 5650 mm. This precise engineering ensures that the component can be installed with calculated clearance, meeting the stringent standards for the construction of the plant.
The lower part of the reactor pit is a key component in the Russian-designed VVER-1200 pressurized water reactor. Its installation follows the completion of the dry protection structure and precedes the installation of the reactor pressure vessel. This marks a significant milestone in the construction of the third nuclear unit at El Dabaa, bringing it closer to the installation of the main equipment for the reactor circuit.
The installed component serves as a link between the reactor pit and the reactor pressure vessel, ensuring accurate alignment of the vessel on its vertical axis. It plays a vital role in completing the reactor pit system, which is essential for the safe operation of the nuclear plant. The installation process involves a series of precise steps, including the placement of the reactor core catcher and the pouring of concrete into the support and fixation structures.
The successful installation of the lower part of the reactor pit paves the way for the next critical step: the installation of the reactor pressure vessel for the third nuclear unit. The vessel measures approximately 13 meters in length, 4.5 meters in diameter, and weighs 320 tons. This phase of the project is being carried out under the strict supervision of the Egyptian Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Authority.
The Nuclear Power Plants Authority emphasized that this achievement reflects its commitment to meeting the project's timeline and adhering to the highest standards of quality and safety. The installation process is being closely monitored by the regulatory authority's resident inspectors at the El Dabaa nuclear power plant site. This progress brings the third unit closer to the installation of the main equipment for the reactor circuit.
The El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant project is a significant development in Egypt's energy sector, with the third unit expected to contribute substantially to the country's electricity generation capacity. The plant's construction is being carried out in accordance with international safety standards and best practices, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the nuclear units.
Key points
- Installation of lower part of reactor pit marks significant milestone in construction of third nuclear unit at El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant.
- Component weighs approximately 130.85 tons and measures 5465 mm in diameter and 3820 mm in length.
- Installation brings project closer to installation of main equipment for reactor circuit and meeting project timeline.
