The AP600: a safe, simplified PWR and its environment

The AP600, an advanced nuclear power plant that incorporates highly simplified, passive safety systems, is discussed. The design of the plant, under development, offers major improvements in safety, operability, maintainability, life cycle cost, and construction schedule compared to existing nuclear plants. The nuclear steam supply system, safety-systems, and nonsafety-systems design are described. The nuclear core and fuel utilization are examined. Also discussed are plant simplification and economics, plant layout and construction, severe accidents, and the schedule for the next phase, the design certification.<
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