A cutting-edge domestic steam generator Tuesday departed for the first demonstration nuclear power project using Hualong One technology, a domestically developed third-generation reactor design.

The Hualong One ZH-65 steam generator has a life span of 60 years with lower outlet humidity and a higher power-weight ratio than previous technology.

"The generator has demonstrated China's latest nuclear power equipment manufacturing technology," said Zeng Xianmao, chairman and general manager with the Dongfang Electric (Guangzhou) Heavy Machinery, producer of the generator.

The generator was developed by a team led by Zhang Fuyuan, chief designer at the Nuclear Power Institute of China.

It was designed for the No 5 unit of Fuqing Nuclear Plant in Fujian province, a project of China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC).

The government has approved the Fuqing project to build six nuclear power units. The No 5 and 6 units will be a pilot project also featuring Hualong One.

In May, a hemispherical dome, weighing 340 tons and measuring 46.8 meters in diameter, was installed by crane on the No 5 unit, marking the start of the assembly stage.

The installation of the dome ranked first in projects on progress in nuclear science and technology, according to the annual conference of the Chinese Nuclear Society on Monday.

Hualong One was jointly designed by China's two nuclear power giants, China General Nuclear Power Group and CNNC, and passed inspection by a national panel in August 2014.

China has 37 operational nuclear reactors and is building a further 19.

China is aiming to have 88 million kW of nuclear power capacity in operation or under construction by 2020. The current level is just under 57 million kW.

On Sept 1, China's legislature passed a nuclear safety law, reflecting the country's careful safety outlook and commitment to its international obligations.

There are now four projects using Hualong One design under construction, including two reactors in Karachi, Pakistan. A contract was also signed in May for the construction of the Hualong One design in Argentina.

The country has promoted the Hualong One at home and abroad.