French nuclear fleet’s upgrade moves forward

As part of the long-term operation programme of the French nuclear fleet (“grand carénage”), Tractebel is supporting the operator to replace components of the primary loop damaged by thermal ageing. Qualification studies and advanced civil works were successfully finalized at the end of 2022 to prepare the interventions that are required.

Qualification for maintenance interventions

The replacement of components includes piping parts and elbows (except for the steam generator) of nuclear reactors operated by EDF. Our engineers participated in the qualification of the maintenance operations on a full-scale model. They rehearsed the interventions on it to demonstrate to the French nuclear safety authority (ASN) their feasibility and compliance with the nuclear safety regulation. The 1:1 scale model of the primary loop includes the steam generator and primary pump casemates to conduct tests, developments, and qualifications, and organize training sessions for the operators.

Advanced civil works

Our experts were on the nuclear site this year for civil works. These structural modifications will serve mainly to facilitate the passage of the primary components during the intervention. With its presence on site, TRACTEBEL was able to provide valuable support to carry out civil works successfully and showed responsiveness when difficulties were encountered (reinforcement in concrete, anchor resistance, concrete cutting, etc.)

Skills and expertise

Tractebel is also responsible for the loop calculations, civil calculations, and mechanical expertise which are crucial in the elbow replacement project. We have the right combination of civil works, structural integrity, mechanical engineering and project management skills to help the French nuclear operator carry out this project successfully.

Primary loop 1:1 scale model

“Our engineers are proud to be part of a project that will ensure the safety of the French nuclear fleet for the coming years. The finalization of the qualification phase paves the way for maintenance operations to be performed on the nuclear site. The success of the project relies on the competencies in different fields of our colleagues based in France and Belgium.” Augustin de La Motte, Project Manager

Find out more about our nuclear expertise HERE.