Framatome partners with TerraPower for Natrium reactor fuel handling equipment design

Framatome partners with TerraPower for Natrium reactor fuel handling equipment design
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Feb 26, 2024

Framatome US Government Solutions LLC. has announced a significant step forward in nuclear energy innovation through its collaboration with TerraPower, focusing on the design and development of ex-vessel fuel handling equipment for the groundbreaking Natrium reactor. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the advancement of clean energy technology, emphasizing both companies' roles in shaping the future of nuclear energy.

The equipment, consisting of two separate rail-mounted machines, is designed for refueling and core component transfer activities within the Natrium reactor. Its automated and remote functionalities are pivotal in enhancing safety and efficiency during refueling operations, scheduled outages, and maintenance activities.

This technological advancement is not just a leap forward in nuclear reactor operation but also a testament to the commitment of both Framatome and TerraPower towards safer and more efficient nuclear energy production.

Tara Neider, senior vice president and project director for the Natrium Reactor Demonstration Project, highlighted the importance of this project, stating, "This equipment project is an important milestone for advancing our cutting-edge Natrium reactor design, critical in powering our nation's clean energy future."

The collaboration between Framatome and TerraPower showcases a strong partnership, leveraging Framatome's extensive expertise and operating experience to strengthen the supply chain necessary for bringing this innovative technology to the market.

Craig Ranson, executive vice president of the Installed Base Business Unit at Framatome in North America, echoed the sentiment of collaboration and innovation, "We are developing and delivering technological modules for advanced and small modular reactors, collaborating closely with TerraPower and other industry leaders that are advancing nuclear energy capabilities."

This project underlines TerraPower's pioneering role in the advanced reactor market and Framatome's commitment to providing unique, state-of-the-art equipment tailored to the Natrium reactor's needs.

The design phase of the fuel handling equipment is a joint effort between Framatome and American Crane, capitalizing on their long history of delivering world-class upgrades and new fuel handling equipment for the U.S. nuclear operating fleet.

This phase is underway at Framatome's Operational Center of Excellence in Lynchburg, VA, aiming for completion and fabrication by July 2025. Upon successful design completion, the equipment will be fabricated and installed at the TerraPower Demonstration Plant in Kemmerer, Wyoming, marking a significant milestone in the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies.

Framatome and TerraPower's collaboration on the Natrium reactor's fuel handling equipment is a clear indication of the nuclear energy sector's evolving landscape. It represents a crucial step towards realizing the potential of advanced reactors in contributing to a sustainable and clean energy future.