Fuel assemblies for HPR1000 (Hualong One) nuclear reactors [Photo/CNNC]

CNNC began shipping Chinese-made fuel assemblies for the Fuqing Nuclear Power Plant, the world’s first HPR1000 (Hualong One) nuclear reactor, on Sept 10. The assemblies first had to pass inspection.

Construction on the world’s first HPR1000 nuclear reactor is progressing according to schedule.

The fuel assembly shipment marks that CNNC is now capable of mass producing fuel assemblies for the HPR1000 reactors. It will facilitate the HPR1000 technology to be exported to other countries.

Fuel assemblies make up the core of a nuclear reactor. They are essential to the safety, reliability, and efficiency of a nuclear power plant.

The HPR1000 reactor has a 60-year lifespan and its reactor core needs refueling every 18 months, meaning its fuel assemblies had to be to a very high standard.