Second nuclear reactor delivered to Hinkley Point C power station
The 500-tonne component will now be installed in Unit 2
Hinkley Point C nuclear power station has received its second reactor pressure vessel, marking a pivotal step in the completion of the site’s Unit 2.
The first vessel was delivered in 2023 and is already installed and welded into place on Unit 1, which has moved on to the installation of pipes, cables, and other equipment.
Weighing 500 tonnes and measuring 13 metres in length, the pressure vessel is responsible for harnessing the power of nuclear fission to generate heat and steam that drive electricity turbines. Each of the two power station units will be capable of providing electricity for around 3 million homes.
With the experience gained during the construction of Unit 1, Unit 2 is being built 20-30% faster thanks to improved processes, including prefabrication reaching almost 60%. Following the successful dome lift in July last year, work on Unit 2 has focused on completing its buildings.
The new pressure vessel began its journey at the Framatome Saint Marcel factory in France, travelling to Avonmouth Docks in Bristol and then to Combwich Wharf on the River Parrett in Somerset by barge. It completed the final leg of the journey on the road in a six-hour operation covering a distance of four miles.