The containment structure of the reactor compartment at Unit-1 of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) has successfully passed a series of integrity and strength tests, marking a major milestone ahead of the upcoming nuclear fuel loading.
The tests confirmed that the containment fully complies with design specifications and meets the highest international safety standards, according to ROSATOM press release.
During the procedure, pressure inside the reactor containment was raised to its design value using a compressor. A series of evaluations were then conducted to verify the structure’s air tightness and its ability to withstand internal pressure loads under abnormal operating conditions.
These tests are crucial in the current phase of fuel loading preparations, as the containment serves as the final physical safety barrier in the unlikely event of a nuclear incident.
Constructed of pre-stressed reinforced concrete with an internal steel liner, the containment is designed to prevent the release of radioactive substances into the environment. It also ensures the localization of potential radioactive leaks and provides resistance to external impacts.
Following the successful containment testing, Unit-1 will soon undergo a series of hot functional tests. These will include heating the primary coolant circuit to rated parameters, generating steam, and testing various safety systems, including steam discharge into the atmosphere.
Rosatom noted that while some noise is expected during these procedures, it is planned, controlled, and poses no risk to the public.
“Safety remains the highest priority for Rosatom,” the company stated, adding that all mandatory standards and regulatory requirements are being strictly adhered to throughout the project.
The RNPP is being built with Russian technical and financial assistance and features two VVER-1200 reactors with a total generation capacity of 2,400 MW. The Engineering Division of Rosatom State Corporation serves as the project’s general contractor.