SOURCE: AFI
The Atommash Branch, AEM-Technologies, JSC production site located in Volgodonsk, which is part of the machine-building division of Rosatom-Atomenergomash, has successfully shipped the thrust and supporting rings for the fifth power unit of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project, currently in the construction phase.
These shipped items consist of machined rings with slots that play a crucial role in securing the nuclear reactor both in the central part and from above. These rings are designed to provide protection against vertical and horizontal dynamic loads, as well as seismic impacts. Each ring weighs approximately 20 tonnes and has a diameter exceeding 5 meters. Notably, this is the first time that two items of this magnitude have been transported by motor vehicles.
The equipment will initially be transported to the port of St. Petersburg before being shipped to India via water transport. The reactor itself is classified as a first safety class item. It takes the form of a vertical cylindrical vessel with an elliptical bottom. Inside the reactor, there is a core along with internal components. The vessel is hermetically sealed by a cover that includes drives for mechanisms, control and protection units, as well as nozzles for outputting cables of in-core monitoring sensors.
The successful shipment of these thrust and supporting rings highlights the progress being made in the construction of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project. This project is a significant endeavor that will contribute to India’s energy infrastructure and further enhance the nation’s capabilities in the field of nuclear power. The transportation of these essential components demonstrates the collaboration between Russian and Indian entities in realizing this important project.