First turbine module delivered for Akkuyu plant

GE Steam Power is supplying the four nuclear turbine generator sets for Turkey's first nuclear power plant under a contract awarded to AAEM Turbine technology LLC (AAEM) in 2007. These include the Arabelle steam turbines, Gigatop 4-poles generators and condenser vacuum pumps. GE will also provide full design for its scope of supply, and basic design for AAEM's scope.

AAEM is a joint venture of Atomenergomash JSC, a mechanical engineering division of Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom, and General Electric. It was established in 2007 to offer comprehensive solutions for the conventional island of VVER plants. As part of the Akkuyu construction project, Atomenergomash is responsible for the complete supply of equipment for both the nuclear steam generating unit and turbine hall based on the Arabelle low-speed turbine.

Each Arabelle steam turbine will include three modules: the high pressure/intermediate pressure (HIP) module, and two low-pressure modules. In total, each Arabelle will be 60 metres long including generator and will deliver 1.2 GWe.

GE announced yesterday that it had delivered the first HIP module to Atomenergomash for use at the Akkuyu plant. Manufacturing of the module began in June 2019.

"For the first time ever, the enterprises of Rosatom's Mechanical Engineering Division involved in the Akkuyu project have started to produce turbine island equipment in accordance with European standards," said Atomenergomash CEO Andrey Nikipelov. "This is the outcome of a successful strategic partnership between two heavy manufacturing giants - Atomenergomash of Rosatom and GE. As the project was progressing, we set up an effective coordination between our companies, and we will certainly capitalise on this invaluable experience when developing our expertise as the supplier of both nuclear and conventional islands."

Frederic Wiscart, senior executive of projects at GE Steam Power, added: "It's a significant milestone for our partner, AAEM, our customer, Atomenergomash, and our project and manufacturing team. This past year has been nothing if not challenging - and this first equipment delivery showcases the dedication of GE Steam Power team to continuously deliver on time and on quality for our nuclear customers around the world."

Construction began in 2018 of the first of four VVER 1200 units planned for Akkuyu, under a "build-own-operate" model whereby Russia provides the financing, operation and management of the plant. Atomstroyexport is general contractor for construction. Akkuyu 1 is scheduled to enter service in 2023, with the other three units following by 2025. The plant is expected to meet about 10% of Turkey's electricity needs.