Second NuScale SMR steam generator tube contract for Alleima

Monday, 27 January 2025

In June 2023, Alleima was awarded a similar order by Doosan Enerbility for steam generator tubes for installation in one of the first of the NuScale VOYGR SMR power plants. Deliveries were scheduled during 2024 and the NuScale Power Modules were "expected to be operational in 2029", Alleima said.

The NuScale Power Module is a pressurised water reactor with all the components for steam generation and heat exchange incorporated into a single unit, generating 77 MWe, which in September 2020 became the first SMR design to receive approval from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission. NuScale offers the units as VOYGR plants: a VOYGR-12 power plant comprising 12 modules is capable of generating 924 MWe. The company also offers four-module and six-module plants and other configurations based on customer needs.

NuScale's SMR is based on PWR technology where Alleima's current steam generator tubing alloys are used.

In November 2023, NuScale and Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems mutually agreed to terminate the Carbon Free Power Project (CFPP), which was to have featured six NuScale power modules generating 462 MWe of electricity and which was pencilled in for operation by 2029.

NuScale had placed its first upper reactor pressure vessel long-lead production order with Doosan Enerbility in March 2023 for the CFPP - the company intends to transfer those modules to its next customer, Hopkins said during an American Nuclear Society event in November.

The first-of-a-kind NuScale SMR project is now set to be constructed at a former coal plant site at Doicești, Romania.

"We are thrilled to once again supply our steam generator tubes to Doosan Enerbility and NuScale Power," said Nigel Haworth, President of Alleima's tube division. "As this technique, based on pressurised water-cooled reactor technology, is closely linked to current nuclear technology, we see a great potential for significant growth in the coming years. Intensity in discussions regarding the supply of steam generator tubes for SMRs is increasing globally, and as a front runner in this field, we are in a good position for these future power projects."

"We are delighted to be embarking on our journey towards successful deployment of the commercial SMR together with Alleima, as we highly value Alleima's extensive experience and market-proven products and solutions for steam generator tubes," said Jongdoo Kim, CEO of Doosan Enerbility's Nuclear Business Group.