Curtiss-Wright coolant pump attains full qualification

A lead coolant pump specialized for the Westinghouse AP1000 pressurized water reactor (PWR) from Curtiss-Wright has recently completed final performance testing and inspections, the company announced on Wednesday.

Within the testing process, the reactor coolant pump (RCP) was subjected to approximately 1,600 hours of a full range of operations consistent with the reactor that included approximately 600 start-up and shutdown cycles.

"The successful completion of this extensive verification process on our first-of-a-kind RCP design represents another significant milestone achievement for Curtiss-Wright and its employees and demonstrates our on-going commitment to the AP1000 nuclear reactor program," David Adams, chairman and CEO of Curtiss-Wright Corp., said. "Furthermore, as a key partner to Westinghouse and SNPTC, we look forward to the successful operation of the first AP1000 plant, and we remain committed to supporting China's growing nuclear power program."

With this testing complete, the RCP will be able to be shipped out to serve the Sanmen Unit 1 facility by December of this year. The Sanmen Unit 1 is set to be the first AP1000 reactor plant and will be located in Taizhou, Zhejiang, China.

"Conclusion of the reactor coolant pump testing program is a major milestone in the delivery of the world's first AP1000 plant,” Jeff Benjamin, Westinghouse's senior vice president of new plants and major projects, said. “The rigor and discipline applied throughout the testing process demonstrate the safety and quality focus of the AP1000 project team. With the completion of this phase, we are now positioned for the next steps in providing our customers with a new generation of safe, clean, reliable energy."