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Balakovo NPP Completes Massive Replacement of All Steam Generators at Unit 3 AtomInfo.Ru, PUBLISHED 16.06.2026 At the Balakovo Nuclear Power Plant, specialists have completed one of the key operations as part of the scheduled major overhaul - the replacement of the last two of the four steam generators (SG-1 and SG-3) for power unit No. 3. Steam generators are classified as key equipment at a nuclear station, and their replacement is considered one of the most complex technological operations. The previous generators had been in operation since 1988, the year the unit was commissioned. They have been replaced by modern, new-generation units manufactured using the latest technology and incorporating operational experience from the decommissioned ones. These new generators are designed to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the power plant's operation. Each of the units measures approximately 15 by 4 metres and weighs over 300 tonnes. Preparation for their replacement took several years, including meticulous planning of the delivery route along the Volga River from the manufacturer to the Balakovo NPP, as well as personnel training. A similar operation to replace the first two steam generators (SG-2 and SG-4) was already carried out in 2019-2020. Analysis of that experience, combined with thorough preparation and the coordinated efforts of the Balakovo NPP staff and the personnel of "BalakovoAtomEnergoRemont," allowed the operation to be completed nearly 40 days ahead of the scheduled timeframe (127 days instead of 166). The new equipment was manufactured by the "Atommash" plant (Volgodonsk, Rostov Region) in compliance with modern requirements for safe and efficient operation. One of the most important innovations is an improved feedwater distribution system, which has significantly reduced the formation of deposits on the walls of the heat-exchange tubes inside the steam generator. Balakovo NPP Chief Engineer Alexey Sirotin noted: "This and other technical solutions are aimed at ensuring fail-safe operation both during and beyond the designated service life of the power unit. The modernisation will ensure the long-term, accident-free and efficient operation of its reactor facility, and the design improvements will allow the new steam generators to be operated with an increased margin of safety." The new steam generators will operate at the nuclear station until the end of the unit's service life. The unique experience gained in their replacement may be utilised at other nuclear power plants in Russia and abroad. It should be noted that the modernisation of key NPP equipment not only extends the service life of nuclear stations but also reduces the need for the construction of new power units. Topics: NPP, Russia, Balakovo NPP Other news: Rosatom Enters Indian Market of Additive Manufacturing RusBeam 2800 industrial 3D printer has successfully supplied. Rosatom provides first nuclear fuel shipment to Xudapu NPP Initial fuel loading for the VVER-1200 reactor at Unit 3. Rosatom supplies the initial load of nuclear fuel for Tianwan-7 The nuclear fuel was manufactured at Novosibirsk. |
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