The world's first Generation IV nuclear power plant, which Shanghai Electric helped build, begins operations

2023-12-26 19:45:11

SHANGHAI, Oct. 13, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The first nuclear power plant equipped with Gen IV nuclear power technology has gone into operation after a successful 168-hour test run, during which all systems were found to perform the desired functions. This is the Shidaowan High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor Pebble-bed Module (HTR-PM) demonstration project, for which Shanghai Electric has supplied much of the equipment. This milestone makes China a pioneer in nuclear energy production. The country has now taken a big step forward in its effort to become climate neutral and provide low-carbon energy in a safe, reliable and sustainable manner.

It is generally accepted that high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGR), which produce energy by converting atomic, mechanical and electrical energy under heat and are referred to as the fourth generation of nuclear power plants, are considered safe and flexible. They hold high potential for commercial application and are viewed as an alternative to fossil energy sources.

The Shidaowan HTR-PM demonstration project was launched in 2006 and construction began in 2012. It is one of the 16 major national science and technology projects, including lunar exploration or the development of the BeiDou navigation satellite system.

Shanghai Electric is one of the key parties involved in the project. They supplied, among other things, reactor pressure vessels, metal core internals, rod drive control mechanisms, closure systems, turbines, primary helium blowers and helium compressors. The completion of the plant marks the completion of a decade-long effort by leading Chinese energy producers to develop their own solutions for state-of-the-art nuclear power plants. 93.4 percent of the reactor’s equipment was manufactured by Chinese companies.

The reactor pressure vessels, which were developed by Shanghai Electric specifically for the project, are significantly larger and more complex compared to common models. Her height and weight break industry records. The project’s metal core internals are the largest thin-walled metal core internals in the world, a groundbreaking invention that fills a gap in the Chinese market. The company has developed the world’s first high-temperature, high-pressure, high-performance, electromagnetically mounted primary helium blower.

HTGR will shape the future of global nuclear power development through its exceptional safety standard. Even if all cooling systems fail, the reactor remains safe. This prevents a core meltdown and the release of radioactive material without intervention. The successful commissioning of the demonstration project represents major progress for China towards a secure supply of nuclear energy and innovative technologies. At the same time, it underlines the claim to a globally leading role in the construction of nuclear power plants and announces further groundbreaking inventions for the generation of sustainable and safe energy.

Further information on: https://www.shanghai-electric.com/group_en/.

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