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
SMART Reactor
A PWR design that uses a compact, integrated layout and a passive safety system to reduce the risk of accidents. The SMART is designed to be modular, scalable, and capable of generating up to 330 MW of electricity.
The SMART (System-integrated Modular Advanced Reactor) is a type of small modular reactor being developed by the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) in South Korea. Some of the characteristics of the SMART reactor include:
- Size and power output: The SMART reactor is designed to produce up to 330 MW of thermal power and 100 MW of electric power, which makes it suitable for small to medium-sized power applications.
- Modular design: The SMART reactor has a modular design, which allows for flexible deployment and easy maintenance. The modular design also makes it possible to add or remove units as needed to meet changing energy demands.
- Advanced safety features: The SMART reactor incorporates several advanced safety features, such as a passive cooling system, a pressurized containment vessel, and an integral reactor vessel that reduces the risk of radioactive release in the event of an accident.
- Fuel technology: The SMART reactor uses low-enriched uranium oxide fuel and has a long fuel cycle that reduces the need for refueling. The fuel is also designed to be highly resistant to failure or damage, which makes it suitable for high-temperature operation.
- Low carbon emissions: The SMART reactor is designed to produce low levels of carbon emissions and to be a reliable and cost-effective source of low-carbon energy.
- International collaboration: The development of the SMART reactor has involved collaboration with international partners, including the United States, Canada, and Argentina.
The SMART reactor is currently in the design phase, with plans to build a demonstration unit in South Korea in the coming years. The technology has also generated interest in other countries, including Saudi Arabia, which has signed a memorandum of understanding with KAERI to explore the potential for building SMART reactors in the kingdom.
