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Kakrapar Atomic Power Project Unit-4 Attains Historic First Criticality

After securing criticality clearance from AERB, KAPP-4 is now poised for a series of experiments and tests.

December 19, 2023. By Abha Rustagi

In a leap forward for India's nuclear power landscape, the Kakrapar Atomic Power Project's Unit 4 (KAPP 4 – 700 MW) has achieved a milestone by attaining its first criticality.

The criticality, marking the initiation of a controlled fission chain reaction, occurred at 01:17 hrs, and it followed a stringent evaluation of safety protocols by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).

KAPP-4, the second in a series of sixteen indigenous Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) of 700 MW each, has set a new benchmark for India's pursuit of nuclear energy excellence.

After securing criticality clearance from AERB, KAPP-4 is now poised for a series of experiments and tests. These activities, aligned with AERB clearances, will include incrementally raising the power level, ultimately culminating in the full-power operation of the unit.

The reactors, KAPP 3&4 (2X700 MW), situated at Kakrapar in Gujarat's Surat district, exemplify the spirit of AtmaNirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). These indigenous PHWRs boast advanced safety features, positioning them among the world's safest reactors.

Designed, constructed, commissioned, and operated by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), the supply of equipment and execution of contracts have been carried out by Indian industries and companies, showcasing self-reliance in the nuclear energy sector.

B.C.Pathak, Chairman and Managing Director of NPCIL, who witnessed the criticality achievement from the control room of the station, commended all NPCIL employees. He emphasized the significance of achieving criticality for KAPP-4 within six months of the commercial operation of Unit-3, showcasing NPCIL's prowess in nuclear power across design, construction, commissioning, and operation.

NPCIL currently operates 23 reactors with a total capacity of 7480 MW and has nine units, including KAPP-4, under construction with a capacity of 7500 MW. Additionally, 10 more reactors with a total capacity of 7000 MW are in pre-project activities, anticipated to be progressively completed by 2031-32.

This achievement at Kakrapar underscores India's commitment to advancing its nuclear energy capabilities, ensuring a secure and sustainable energy future.

Tags:

Energy efficiency

Kakrapar Atomic Power Project

Criticality

AERB

KAPP-4

India's nuclear power

Nuclear technology

Nuclear power plants

Nuclear energy

Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors

Atomic Energy Regulatory Board