77MW 소형 모듈형 원자로(SMR) 설계에 새로운 붕소 기반 안전 부품이 통합되었습니다.
US nuclear technology firm NuScale Power has fabricated the first boron-oxide pellets designed for the passive emergency cooling system of its small modular reactor, marking a manufacturing milestone for a component intended to help keep the reactor core stable during an emergency. Produced alongside advanced nuclear materials manufacturer MillenniTEK, the work demonstrates a validated production process for this specialized element of NuScale’s emergency core cooling system (ECCS) as the company advances toward commercial deployment.
Designed to operate without operator intervention, the pellets serve as a critical safety response. When the ECCS activates, the boron-oxide material dissolves into the reactor coolant, absorbing neutrons to reduce those available for sustaining the nuclear reaction. This controlled reduction in core reactivity keeps the reactor within safe limits during abnormal conditions, leveraging boron’s well-established role in nuclear systems to provide reliable, passive safety.
Beyond immediate safety functions, the milestone establishes the supply chain and production capabilities necessary for planned reactor deployments. NuScale is developing its technology for diverse applications, including electricity generation, data centers, and industrial heat.
“This first-of-a-kind fabrication milestone demonstrates MillenniTEK’s ability to support the advanced manufacturing needs of next-generation nuclear technologies,” said Steve Getley, MillenniTEK President.
For NuScale, the achievement underscores the capability to manufacture specialized reactor components at the quality and consistency demanded by commercial nuclear projects. “NuScale’s technology is built on a commitment to safety, simplicity, and deployability, and this milestone reflects the continued progress we are making to prepare our technology and supply chain for commercial deployment in the near-term,” said John Hopkins, NuScale President and Chief Executive Officer.
The underlying technology centers on the NuScale Power Module, a pressurized water reactor engineered to generate 77 megawatts of electricity per unit. Multiple modules can be integrated into larger facilities, with the company’s current configuration scaling to 924 MW across 12 modules. NuScale’s SMR design holds the distinction of being the first and only to receive design certification from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Target markets extend beyond grid electricity to include district heating, desalination, and hydrogen production.
MillenniTEK’s involvement highlights a broader industry challenge: translating regulatory approval into physical deployment through specialized manufacturing. The company produces technical ceramic components by converting powdered materials into solid parts and develops prototypes for SMR, microreactor, and space reactor applications. Consequently, these initial boron-oxide pellets represent more than a single production run; they form the foundation of repeatable manufacturing processes and a resilient supply chain capable of supporting NuScale’s reactors as it transitions to commercial customers.
Get the latest in engineering, tech, space & science - delivered daily to your inbox. With over a decade-long career in journalism, Neetika Walter has worked with The Economic Times, ANI, and Hindustan Times, covering politics, business, technology, and the clean energy sector. Passionate about contemporary culture, books, poetry, and storytelling, she brings depth and insight to her writing. When she isn’t chasing stories, she’s likely lost in a book or enjoying the company of her dogs.