The first of its kind lead fuel assembly to operate in a commercial reactor has just completed four-years at Constellation Energy’s Calvert Cliffs nuclear power plant in Maryland.
“The performance of our technology continues to demonstrate the expertise of our people to develop safe, cost-effective solutions for our customers and our industry,” said Lionel Gaiffe, senior executive vice president, Fuel Business Unit at Framatome. “The Constellation team has been instrumental in helping us reach this milestone, leading the industry integrating accident tolerant fuel characteristics into their operations.”
“This public-private partnership is helping to drive the fulfilment of national power demands and executive orders issued by President Trump,” said Frank Goldner, the federal program manager for the Accident Tolerant Fuel Program. “This fuel assembly will continue operating under commercial conditions, providing crucial data to support the nation’s energy objectives.”
These fuel tests are aimed at leading towards more economical and performance improvements with the aim being widespread commercial use by 2030.
Sources: https://www.energy.gov/ne/articles/framatome-advanced-fuel-assembly-completes-second-fuel-cycle
Picture: Framatome