China-Russia Cooperative Nuclear Projects Make Progress

The first large equipment of the No. 3 and No. 7 generator units of the Xudapu and Tianwan nuclear power plants were hoisted on Jan 12 and 17, respectively, marking the start of main equipment installation at the nuclear islands.

The parts recently hoisted were the core catcher shell vessels of the Xudapu and Tianwan nuclear power plants. Located under the reactor pressure vessel, they weigh about 158 metric tons and have a diameter of 6.3 meters and a height of about 6.1 meters.

They will play a role in stopping and relieving accidents and guaranteeing integrity of the containment.

The first large equipment of the No. 3 generator units of Xudapu nuclear power project is hoisted. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]

Built by China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), the projects are jointly developed by China and Russia.

According to CNNC, the first phase of the Tianwan nuclear power project is expected to be the world's first to have a core catcher built and in use.

(Executive editor: Niu Yilin)