Core melt localisation device installed at KKNPP Unit 3

A core melt localisation device that protects core under reactor pit was installed in Unit 3 of Indo-Russian Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant in Tamil Nu recently, Moscow-based Rosatom State Corporation Engineering Division said on Saturday.

device or a 'core catcher' is installed at bottom of station's protective shell. It is designed to localise and cool molten core material in case of an accident that could le dam to core, a press release said.

"Core melt localisation device is a unique development of Russian nuclear experts and one of most important NPP safety systems," director for projects in India at Rosatom Engineering Division (ASE) Vlimir Angelov said.

"This is a special system for beyond-design-basis accidents manment," he said in a press release.

Core catcher for Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project is a device of new generation apted for relevant site conditions and safety requirements.

device has improved seismic resistance, hydro-dynamic and shock strength as well as equipped with flood protection and simplified installation and assembly techlogy.

main feature of KKNPP was its unique combination of active and passive safety systems that provides maximum resistance against external and internal influences.

core catcher, one of elements of passive safety systems, was first installed at China's Tianwan nuclear power plant of Russian design.

It was recently installed in design position under reactor pit of Unit 3, KNPP.

Core catcher is designed to localise and cool molten core material in case of an accident that could le to dam to core.

" core catcher allows protective shell to be preserved and exudes rioactive emission in environment, even if (hypotical) accident is serious," release said.