Rosatom has completed the installation of four main circulation pumping units (GTsNA) in the reactor compartment of unit 2 at the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) under construction in Türkiye. These units ensure coolant circulation in the primary circuit of the VVER-1200 reactor. The final spherical component was installed using a caterpillar crane and Open Top technology, allowing equipment delivery through the reactor building’s open roof. Prior to installation, the units were assembled with components like the lower spacer and biological protection ring.

Sergey Butskikh, General Director of Akkuyu Nukleer, stated: “Having completed the installation of the main circulation pumps, we have completed the installation of the main equipment of the unit 2 reactor.” The reactor vessel, steam generators, and safety system components are in place, with welding of the main circulation pipeline set to begin soon. The GTsNA, a critical safety component, operates under 160 atmospheres and 300°C, meeting stringent manufacturing standards.

The Akkuyu NPP will feature four VVER-1200 reactors, constructed by Rosatom under a build-own-operate model. Construction began with unit 1 in April 2018, unit 2 in June 2020, unit 3 in March 2021, and unit 4 in July 2022. Unit 1, with 70% of its equipment commissioned by July 2024, is slated for operation in 2025. The project represents a significant step in Türkiye’s energy development, enhancing its clean energy capacity.

At Russia’s Atommash plant, part of Rosatom’s Engineering Division, the closing weld for the VVER-1200 reactor vessel for Akkuyu unit 4 was completed, a process lasting 10 days at 170-280°C, using over 1.2 tonnes of flux. Maxim Zhidkov, head of Atommash, noted: “The completion of welding of the Akkuyu 4 reactor vessel indicates that Atommash has completed one of the most labour-intensive and long-cycle operations for the manufacture of reactor equipment for Türkiye’s first NPP.” The vessel will undergo heat treatment and rigorous testing, including X-ray, ultrasound, and capillary inspections, to ensure safety for 60 years.

Atommash has produced 8,000 tonnes of equipment for Akkuyu, including steam generators and passive protection systems, with plans to reach 11,000 tonnes. Rosatom’s Mechanical Engineering Division enhances materials and welding technologies to boost reactor reliability, extending the service life of generation 3+ reactors to 60-80 years, with potential for 100 years using new materials.

The Akkuyu project underscores Rosatom’s expertise in nuclear technology, delivering reliable and sustainable energy solutions. Ongoing advancements in equipment manufacturing and construction ensure the plant’s long-term safety and efficiency, supporting Türkiye’s energy goals.