Advanced PWR reactor types and world-wide trends in nuclear fuel utilization

The development trends in the construction of nuclear power plants in France are described. The last unit from the CP PWR 900-Chinon B4 series was connected to the French power transmission system in 1987. At present, the construction of units of the PWR 1400 MW series referred to as P4 is in progress. A total of 20 units of this series are planned, out of which 14 were already in operation by the end of 1988. In addition, the construction of the N4 series was commenced; by 2000, 6 units of PWR 1400 MW reactors should be in operation. Benefiting from the experience gained during the construction and operation of the PWR 900 MW units, the net efficiency of the units in the P4 series now under construction could be improved and the units could be made completely autonomous. The single containment with a metal lining was replaced with a double concrete containment, and the emergency protection control systems were physically separated. Some data concerning the construction and operation of the P4 type NPP are given based on information from the 2 x 1300 MW NPP at Nogent sur Seine (Z.S.). 2 tabs