Nuclear engineering and services
Onet Technologies innovates for EDF with a water recirculation system for used fuel casks
In the world of nuclear energy, every detail counts to ensure the safe operation of power plants.
During a fuel evacuation, specific packages containing the assemblies are handled using a heavy-duty crane. Should the crane break down during handling, the spent fuel must be cooled to ensure the integrity of the first safety barrier: the fuel rod cladding.
Aware of this problem, EDF enlisted the support of Onet Technologies to develop an innovative solution: the water recirculation project in the fuel cask skirt.
A fearsomely simple tool... But effective
The skid is a simple but ingenious device which, once installed, ensures fuel cooling in the event of a hazard by maintaining a constant flow of water through the skirt of the package. The system works simply: part of the skid connects to the existing plant, where it is fitted with sensors to monitor water temperature, flow and pressure. The water is then fed to the skid, enveloping the fuel package in a sort of cold-water pocket. This water gradually warms up as it absorbs heat from the package, and is then returned for treatment.
What makes this ingenious skid all the more effective is its simplicity! Unlike many complex technological solutions, this skid operates passively, without the need for an external power supply. This simplicity, combined with its significant contribution to the safety of nuclear operations, has earned the project well-deserved recognition.
A design praised by our customer EDF, soon to be deployed in other nuclear power plants in France
Such is EDF's satisfaction with this innovation that it recently won an internal engineering innovation competition organized by EDF!
Five Onet Technologies employees from the Marseille, Pierrelatte and Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux offices worked on this project to design, manufacture and commission the skid. Their hard work and coordination enabled the project to be completed to tight deadlines, but without sacrificing quality or precision of detail.
This skid is about to be deployed in most of France's nuclear power plants (CPY and P4 levels). It is a perfect illustration of how innovation can help make our nuclear facilities safer and more efficient.
Thanks to this simple and effective solution, Onet Technologies' teams are taking a new step forward in protecting our nuclear power plants and our environment!
Well done to our teams for their work on this project!
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Nuclear engineering and services
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