Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant achieves major milestone with installation of lower containment at power unit no. 1

In a significant step forward for the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), Russian and Turkish specialists have successfully completed the installation of the lower part of the outer containment (OC) for Power Unit No. 1. This milestone marks a crucial phase in the construction of Turkey’s first nuclear power plant, which is being built by Rosatom State Corporation.

The installation of the massive metal structure, which weighs 340 tons and spans a diameter of 50.8 meters, was a complex operation conducted at a height of 63 meters. The process, which took 10 hours to complete, is a testament to the collaborative effort and technical expertise of the teams involved.

Enhanced Safety Features of Akkuyu NPP

Power units at Akkuyu NPP are equipped with Generation 3+ VVER-1200 reactors, known for their advanced safety features. These reactors are designed to withstand extreme natural events, including earthquakes up to 9 points on the MSK-64 scale, hurricanes with wind speeds up to 60 m/s, tsunamis, and shock waves up to 10 meters high. The outer containment, once fully assembled, will provide robust protection for the reactor, safeguarding it against external impacts throughout its operational life.

Installation of the lower part of the outer containment at Akkuyu NPP’s Power Unit No. 1 completed, marking a major milestone in Turkey’s first nuclear power plant project. Photo courtesy of The State Atomic Energy Corporation ROSATOM.

Sergei Butckikh, CEO of Akkuyu Nuclear JSC, emphasized the importance of this achievement: “After the successful installation of the lower dome part of the outer containment, the builders of the Akkuyu NPP will install the OC dome in the next stage. The assembled large-sized reinforced concrete structure will protect the reactor plant from external effects during the entire service life of the nuclear power plant.”

The Role of Double Containment Systems

Akkuyu NPP’s design includes a double containment system, comprising both inner and outer containment structures. The inner containment (IC) is vital for ensuring the reactor building’s leak-tightness and serves as a support for critical components such as pipelines and the polar crane used in reactor maintenance operations. The outer containment, currently under construction, adds an additional layer of strength and safety to the reactor building.

A Landmark Project for Turkey

Akkuyu NPP is not only Turkey’s first nuclear power plant but also a landmark project in the global nuclear industry. It is the first project to be implemented under the Build-Own-Operate (BOO) model, with Rosatom providing the reactors and managing the plant’s operation. The plant will feature four power units, each with a capacity of 1200 MW, contributing significantly to Turkey’s energy security and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.

The successful installation of the lower containment part at Power Unit No. 1 is a clear indication that the Akkuyu NPP project is progressing as planned. As construction continues, the focus will shift to the installation of the outer containment dome, bringing the project one step closer to its operational phase.