World's largest crane completes key lift at Hinkley Point C nuclear plant
"Big Carl" assists in faster build of Hinkley Point C's Unit 2
Hinkley Point C nuclear plant in Somerset has reached a significant milestone using Big Carl, the world's largest crane, to install the second nuclear reactor for Unit 2.
The reactor, a 500-tonne cylinder, was successfully lifted and installed inside the reactor building using innovative techniques that promise improved efficiency compared to Unit 1's construction.
Inside the reactor building, the 13-metre vessel was carefully positioned onto a support ring with minimal clearance, marking a crucial step forward less than a year after the reactor building's dome was completed.
The continued advances and innovation at Hinkley Point C mean that Unit 2 is progressing 20 to 30 per cent faster than its predecessor.
These improvements include the installation of more equipment and structural steel work at this stage compared to Unit 1, showcasing advancements in project planning and execution.
Notably, three large heat exchangers have been installed in Unit 2, a feat not achieved at the same stage of Unit 1's construction.
The reactor pressure vessel is essential to the station's capability to produce heat and steam for the Arabelle turbines, which are known as the world's largest.
Together, Units 1 and 2 at Hinkley Point C will provide power to 6 million homes with low-carbon electricity, reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels.
Simon Parsons, Delivery Director for Hinkley Point C, praised the workforce and contractors involved, highlighting the substantial planning and coordination required to achieve this milestone.
"This marks a tremendous achievement by the entire team and one that has taken months of planning and close coordination between the 10 main contractors involved," Parsons said.
He emphasised the project's commitment to learning from past experiences, noting improvements in time, cost, and site disruption for Unit 2.
“Importantly, we are also applying those lessons to put Unit 2 well ahead of the first unit’s position at the equivalent stage, with more materials in place and more work achieved,” Parsons added.
The innovations demonstrated at Hinkley Point C are set to benefit future projects, including Sizewell C from the outset.