World's first Gen 4 nuclear plant marks a new era in nuclear technology

World's first Gen 4 nuclear plant marks a new era in nuclear technology
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Dec 27, 2023

In a significant stride for the global nuclear energy sector, the Shidaowan High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor Pebble-bed Module (HTR-PM) demonstration project, a collaboration featuring Shanghai Electric as a key equipment supplier, has successfully commenced commercial operation. This milestone, marked by a successful 168-hour test run confirming all systems' adherence to design functions, places China at the forefront of nuclear energy innovation.

The HTR-PM project leverages the high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) technology, globally recognized as fourth-generation nuclear power. This technology, acclaimed for its inherent safety and versatility, presents a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based energy sources. The operationalization of this project is particularly momentous, given its initiation in 2006 and construction commencement in 2012, positioning it alongside other major national scientific and technological projects such as China's lunar exploration program and the BeiDou navigation satellite system.

Shanghai Electric's role in this groundbreaking endeavor has been crucial. The company supplied critical equipment, including reactor pressure vessels, metallic core internals, control rod drive mechanisms, shutdown systems, turbines, primary helium fans, and helium compressors. Notably, 93.4 percent of the reactor's equipment is manufactured by Chinese companies, underscoring the country's growing self-reliance in nuclear technology.

The reactor pressure vessels designed by Shanghai Electric for the project set new industry standards in size and complexity. Similarly, the metallic core internals produced are the world's largest of their kind, exemplifying China's capability to fill significant market gaps. Additionally, leveraging two decades of expertise, Shanghai Electric developed the world's first high-temperature, high-pressure, high-power, electromagnetic-bearing primary helium fan.

The HTGR's safety features are a pivotal aspect of this technological advancement. The reactor is designed to remain safe even in the event of total cooling system failure, theoretically preventing core meltdown and radioactive material leakage without external intervention. This aspect of the technology not only enhances the safety of nuclear power plants but also significantly contributes to the global nuclear power development landscape.

The successful commercial operation of the Shidaowan HTR-PM demonstration project is a testament to China's commitment to exploring safe, reliable, and sustainable power sources. This development aligns with China's goal of achieving carbon peak and neutrality, and it potentially reshapes the future of nuclear power, heralding a new era of sustainable and secure energy generation.

In conclusion, the successful launch of the world's first nuclear power plant project equipped with Gen IV technology not only asserts China's leadership in nuclear energy innovation but also marks a new chapter in the global pursuit of advanced, safer, and more sustainable nuclear power solutions.