About SMR
Small Modular Reactors
Small modular reactors (SMRs) are nuclear fission reactors that are smaller than conventional reactors. The term “small” in the context of SMRs refers to design power output.
Small modular reactors have a power output of less than 300 MWe. The term “modular” in the context of SMRs refers to its scalability and to the ability to fabricate major components of the nuclear steam supply system (NSSS) in a factory environment and then transported them to the site.
Key characteristics:
Modularity
Improved safety
Easier construction
See also: www.nuclear-power.com
Holtec International – SMR-160
SMR-160 – A PWR design that uses a combination of active and passive safety systems. The SMR-160 is designed to be compact, transportable, and capable of generating up to 160 MW of electricity.
Here are some characteristics of the Holtec SMR-160:
- Design: The Holtec SMR-160 is a pressurized water reactor (PWR) design that uses natural circulation to passively cool the reactor in the event of a loss of power or cooling. The reactor is designed to be small, modular, and scalable.
- Size: The Holtec SMR-160 has a capacity of 160 MW. Multiple modules can be combined to form a larger power plant, with up to 6 modules providing a total capacity of 960 MW.
- Safety: The Holtec SMR-160 is designed with multiple safety features, including a passive cooling system that relies on natural circulation to remove heat from the reactor in the event of an accident. The reactor vessel is also designed to withstand severe weather and earthquake events.
- Cost: The modular design of the Holtec SMR-160 is intended to reduce construction costs and time, as modules can be manufactured off-site and transported to the site for installation. Additionally, the small size of the reactor means that it requires less fuel and produces less waste than traditional nuclear reactors.
- Licensing: The Holtec SMR-160 is currently undergoing review by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for licensing in the United States. The design has also been proposed for use in several other countries.
- Deployment: The Holtec SMR-160 has been proposed for use at several sites in the United States, including the Prairie Island Nuclear Generating Station in Minnesota and the Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station in New Jersey. The design has also been proposed for use in several other countries, including Ukraine and the United Kingdom.
