BWRX-300
GE - Hitachi Reactor
The BWRX-300, developed by GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH), is currently undergoing a pre-application review by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). This review, which began in December 2019 and continues to date, includes the examination of various Licensing Topical Reports (TRs) and White Papers (WPs) that detail the design approaches and methodologies of the BWRX-300. This small modular reactor (SMR) is a ~300 MWe water-cooled, natural circulation reactor with passive safety features, making it a unique and needed addition to the nuclear energy sector.
Key submissions to the NRC have covered a range of critical aspects of the BWRX-300's design and safety:
Reactor Pressure Vessel Isolation and Overpressure Protection: Submitted on December 31, 2019, this report addresses crucial safety mechanisms of the reactor.
Containment Performance: Detailed in a report submitted on March 31, 2020, this aspect pertains to the integrity and effectiveness of the reactor's containment structures.
Reactivity Control: Another report submitted on the same day, March 31, 2020, focuses on the control of nuclear reactivity within the reactor.
Containment Evaluation Method (GOTHIC Application to BWRX-300): This submission, made on September 25, 2020, involves the evaluation of containment methodologies specific to the BWRX-300.
Advanced Civil Construction and Design Approach: A report submitted on January 20, 2021, this document outlines innovative approaches to the reactor's construction and design.
Steel-Plate Composite (SC) Containment Vessel and Reactor Building Structural Design: Addressed in a White Paper submitted on October 14, 2022, this aspect discusses the structural design of the reactor and its containment vessel.
Safety Strategy: Another White Paper, submitted on December 7, 2022, elaborates on the overall safety strategy of the BWRX-300.
Additionally, another important report concerning the Steel-Plate Composite Containment Vessel and Reactor Building Structural Design was submitted on August 18, 2023, with a target date for final license topical report completion set for August 2024.
These documents and the ongoing review process indicate a comprehensive and rigorous examination of the BWRX-300's safety, design, and construction methodologies. The timeline for these submissions, particularly the target completion date in 2024, underscores the detailed and careful consideration being given to ensure that the BWRX-300 meets the highest standards of safety and functionality in nuclear reactor design.
The commercial capabilities exist, now it’s up to the NRC to empower the private businesses.