The Unit-1 of Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) in Bangladesh is making significant progress as the core barrel has been installed, bringing it closer to fuel loading. According to Rosatom, the Russian contractor overseeing the project, the core barrel is a crucial component of the reactor internals. It contains a baffle and fuel assemblies that contribute to the nuclear reaction. The barrel is designed to facilitate coolant circulation, cool the fuel elements’ cladding, and shield the reactor pressure vessel from radiation.
Made of stainless austenitic class steel, the barrel weighs 73.74 tons, measures 10869 mm (35.66 feet) in length, and has a diameter of 3610 mm (11.84 feet). The Rooppur NPP, featuring two VVER-1200 reactors with a total capacity of 2400 MW, adheres to international safety standards. The project, led by the Engineering Division of Rosatom, is expected to complete the first unit by June 2024 and the second unit by June 2025, after a revised timeline.