Demonstration plant will verify Beijing’s home-grown reactor technology
The core module has been installed within the reactor building of the ACP100 small modular reactor demonstration project in southern China, China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) has announced.
The core module of the domestically developed ACP100, also known as the Linglong One, integrates the reactor pressure vessel (RPV), evaporator and main pumps, and removes the need for a main pipeline.
“This is the first milestone of the installation of the Linglong One nuclear island,” CNNC said.
“It marks the debut of modular manufacturing and installation of nuclear reactor modules, representing a historic step of global nuclear miniaturisation and highlighting China’s leading position in the modular manufacturing of small pressurised reactor units.”
The ACP100 was the first SMR to be approved by the International Atomic Energy Agency in 2016.
The multi-purpose 125-MW pressurised water reactor is designed for electricity production, heating, steam production or seawater desalination.
Construction began in July 2021 on a site next to the existing Changjiang nuclear power station in the island province of Hainan, southern China, about four years later than planned. CNNC originally aimed to start building the plant in 2017, but the project was subject to regulatory delays.
CNNC said the demonstration plant will verify the design, manufacture, construction and operation of the technology. “It will also help the company gain experience of running small nuclear power stations and enable it to explore the future market for small reactors,” a statement said.
