Framatome has signed a contract to supply in February 2021 two fuel assemblies fully equipped with its Enhanced Accident Tolerant Fuel (EATF) to Calvert Cliffs nuclear plant, operated by Exelon Generation.
The assemblies, developed as part of Framatome's PROtect programme, comprise chromium oxide-doped pellets and chromium-coated M5Framatome sheaths. It the fourth contract signed by Framatome and the fourth type of reactor to which the company will supply EATF fuel assemblies.
Framatome said its EATF PROtect designs can tolerate a loss of primary cooling in the reactor core for longer periods due to reduced oxidation and reduced creep and bloating of the rods. At the same time, the fuel also offers increased resistance to debris fretting during normal operations.
Calvert Cliffs in Maryland has two 860MWe pressurised water reactors. "We are continually looking for innovative ways to enhance our reliability while maintaining the exceptional standards for safety that are held at Calvert Cliffs and across the Exelon nuclear fleet," said Calvert Cliffs site vice president Mark Flaherty.
