Design concepts for reactor assembly components of 500 MWe future SFRs

500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) is under construction in India. Beyond PFBR, it is planned to construct 3 twin units; each one is 2 MWe x 500 MWe capacity reactors with improved economy and enhanced safety. Significant capital cost reduction is targeted for the reactor assembly, by way of introducing new concepts for the grid plate, primary pipes, top shield and fuel handling system and optimizing the main vessel diameter and bottom dished head shape. The capital cost reduction of the reactor assembly components that could be achieved through these improved concepts is estimated to be about 25%. To validate these concepts, preliminary analysis has been completed, R&D areas have been identified and strategy to execute the R&D has been defined clearly. The basis of each concept is highlighted to depict the Indian approach and strategy to make the fast reactor economically competitive. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.