Chennai:
The prototype fast breeder reactor (PFBR) in Kalpakkam is set to be
filled with sodium after getting the clearance from Atomic Energy
Regulatory Board, according to Prabhat Kumar, Chairman and managing
director of Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI).
Kumar told Express on Tuesday that Sodium filling is set to take place
soon as the AERB clearance is expected any time. A total of 1,750
tonnes of liquid sodium would be loaded in the reactor.
He said the reactor has seven loops, which include the primary loop
(main vessel), two secondary loops and four safety grade decay heat
removal loops.
The sodium is to be heated by nitrogen as well as argon before being
transferred into the loops. Interestingly, the fast breeder reactor
also has a thermal baffle which is designed by Indira Gandhi Centre of
Atomic Research Scientists to provide annular passage for cold sodium,
which is circulated to cool the Main Vessel.
The main vessel will have liquid sodium with a temperature of 550
degree Celsius. This in turn will be cooled by cold sodium, at the
Thermal Baffle, which is also part of the primary loop. This will
keep the maximum temperature during normal operation of the reactor to
less than 450 degree Celsius. This is to minimize the effect of creep,
thermal fatigue and embrittlement of the structure.
Kumar also said once the sodium is filled in the reactor, then the
next stage is for fuel replenishment after which the reactor will
attain criticality. “We expect to complete it before the financial
year,” he said while refusing to divulge any time frame.
He also ruled out any possible Japanese tie-up in developing fast
breeder rectors. Earlier, former chairman of Japanese Atomic
Energy Commission Yoichi Fujiie at an event held in Chennai expressed
keenness in forging a tie-up with India in developing fast breeder
reactors.
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