Pabna, July 31 (V7N)- Preparations for the refueling machine in the reactor compartment of the first unit at the Rupur Nuclear Power Plant in Pabna have been completed. This step is crucial before the dummy fuel loading, which is set to commence in the near future.

According to a press release from Rosatom issued on Tuesday (July 30), the refueling machine is essential for both loading fresh nuclear fuel into the reactor core and removing spent fuel. The machine, weighing 60 tons, is positioned above the fuel pool and reactor pit and includes a bridge, trolley, and service area. It also features a control and monitoring system that enables remote operation and oversight of the nuclear fuel loading and refueling process.

Denis Mazlov, Director of Atomtechenergo’s Bangladesh office, emphasized the critical role of the refueling machine in ensuring safe plant operations. He stated that the accuracy of the fuel assembly work is paramount, with any allowable error not exceeding two millimeters.

The preparation of the refueling machine for fuel loading has been carried out by Atomtechenergo’s specialists. This company, a part of Rosatom's Electric Power Division, is well-versed in NPP commissioning, power production, and distribution installation.

The Rupur Nuclear Power Plant in Bangladesh is nearing completion with support from Russia. Each of the two units, based on the VVER-1200 reactor design, will have a production capacity of 1,200 megawatts. Rosatom's Engineering Division is serving as the general contractor and designer for the project.

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