Framatome expands instrumentation and control business

France's Framatome has signed an asset purchase agreement with Schneider Electric to acquire its nuclear instrumentation and control (I&C) business. The asset purchase agreement outlines the terms of the sale, which is expected to close by the end of March.

I&C systems are used for operating, monitoring and controlling nuclear power reactors. Process automation systems are designed for normal operating conditions, while safety automation systems control the safety functions in potential transient and accident conditions.

"The acquisition expands Framatome's I&C offerings," the company said. "These systems are the central nervous system of a nuclear power plant allowing operators to control reactor operations. Modernisations, upgrades and ongoing support are vital to manage economic long-term operation of nuclear power."

Gary Mignogna, president and CEO of Framatome Inc, said: "This is an exciting time of growth for our company and the acquisition and partnership with Schneider Electric build on our long history of providing nuclear operators with both digital and analog I&C solutions."

He added, "With this acquisition, we will provide long-term support for our customers' systems and serve as the original equipment manufacturer for their I&C upgrades and modernisations."

Framatome says it has installed more than 80 safety I&C systems at 40 reactors in 17 countries around the world. Some 250 automation systems have been or are being installed by Schneider Electric.

Framatome is the new name for New NP - the Areva NP subsidiary holding the Areva Group's nuclear reactor operations - that was recently sold to EDF, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Assystem.

Researched and written
by World Nuclear News