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The case of the core melt localization device, or the so called “molten core catcher” was installed in design position under the reactor pit of power unit No.2 being constructed under VVER-TOI project.
“Core melt localization device is a unique development of Russian nuclear experts and one of the most important NPP safety systems. It is a specialized beyond-design basis accidents control system, - explained Mr. Igor Kuzmenko, Chief Engineer of Capital Construction Division of Kursk-2 NPP. - “Molten core catcher for Kursk-2 NPP is a device of new generation. It is adapted for the relevant site conditions and safety requirements, has improved seismic resistance, hydro-dynamic and shock strength, as well as equipped with flood protection and simplified installation and assembly technology”.
“The core melt localization device has been installed ahead of schedule, - mentioned Mr. Alexey Smirnov, Deputy Director of Corporate Economic Resources Management for Kursk-2 NPP Construction Management of ASE EC JSC. - This is the result of well-coordinated work of LLC Trest RosSEM and PJSC Energospetsmontazh specialists”.
The case of the device weighs 170 tones. The equipment was lifted to the height of 8 meters above the surface by means of the tracked crane DEMAG, which is placed between two nuclear islands, and installed to the design position.
Except for the case, main components of the molten core catcher are: block-cassettes filled with special non-metallic materials, maintenance platform, cantilever truss and bottom plate.
Installation of the core catcher was preceded by the erection of the reinforcement block of the 1st layer of the reactor pit. The 95-ton structure is unique in its own way, it is already lined, unlike the structures used at the Leningrad and Novovoronezh NPPs, which reduces installation time.
*Units 1 and 2 of Kursk NPP-2, 3+Gen are pilot units built under VVER-TOI design (standard optimized digital water-water power reactor). This is a new design created by Russian designers (ASE Group of Companies, Rosatom State Corporation Engineering Division) based on technical solutions of NPP design with VVER-1200. The Units have improved technical and economic parameters. Compared with power units of the previous generation (VVER-1000), the capacity of each unit has increased by 25% up to 1255 MW. Service life of the main equipment is twice as long. Compared to other 3+ generation power units, the VVER-TOI project involves a significant reduction in construction costs, timelines and operating costs.
New units of Kursk NPP-2 comply with the most up-to-date safety requirements of the IAEA.
The developer and technical customer of the facility is Rosenergoatom JSC. The general designer and general contractor is ASE EC JSC.
Currently, power units No. 1, 2, 4 of Kursk NPP are operating at the capacity set by the dispatch schedule. Power unit No.3 is under scheduled maintenance.
The radiation background at the Kursk NPP and within the location area thereof is at the level corresponding to the normal operation of power units, and does not exceed natural background values.
Current information on the radiation situation near Russian NPP and other nuclear facilities is presented on the website www.russianatom.ru.
Information and Public Relations Department of Kursk NPP
Head of IPRD E.V. Schepotieva