Marking a major milestone in production of fuel required for nuclear reactors in the country, the Nuclear Fuel Complex achieved a record output of 1,252 metric tonnes of fuel bundles this year — 47 per cent higher than its rated capacity and nearly 300 tonnes more than that of last year’s.
The record production was achieved through automation and without adding even a single employee, NFC’s Chief Executive N. Saibaba told reporters here on Wednesday. Pointing out that a new unit of NFC to produce 500 tonnes per annum was coming up at Kota, Rajasthan with an investment of Rs. 2,400 crore, he said the higher production of about 300 tonnes would be equivalent to a contribution of Rs. 900 crore to the country’s exchequer.
While 650 to 700 tonnes of fuel bundles would be required for all 18 operating nuclear power reactors, barring Kudankulam, the remaining quantity would be stocked to meet the future needs, Dr. Saibaba said.
Currently 21 reactors were producing 5,850 MWe in the country and 4,300 MWe was expected to be added by 2018.
Besides exceeding targets in the production of fuel tubes, coolant tubes and melted ingots too during 2014-15, NFC also ensured timely supply of critical components and various sub-assemblies for meeting the commissioning schedule of 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam, which is expected to go on stream in a couple of months.
NFC manufactured and supplied different materials for space and defence applications, including seamless tubing for GSLV and nuclear submarines, hydraulic tubing for Light Combat Aircraft, maraging steel for missiles casing and gun barrels and special grade copper blanks for Prithvi and Nag missiles.
Dr. Saibaba said Kota unit was expected to be commissioned by 2019.
Currently 21 reactors are producing 5,850 MWe and 4,300 MWe is expected to be added by 2018
