Rosatom engineers have developed a new melt retention system for VVER-S reactors, dubbed Surok. The technology, designed by the Gidropress design bureau, aims to contain the reactor core melt during severe accidents and prevent radioactive leakage. It functions similarly to the melt traps currently used in VVER-1200 reactors.
The Kola NPP-2 project will be the first to implement this system. The plant is set to feature two power units, each with a capacity of 600 MW. These units will also incorporate passive safety systems and power regulation capabilities, with the main equipment designed for a service life of at least 80 years.
Rosatom intends to use the Surok system to elevate the safety standards of new reactors to the Generation 3+ level. The company expects the technology to facilitate the deployment of VVER reactors both domestically and internationally, including within isolated power grids. The solution was recently presented at an international conference on VVER reactor safety.
