ABB and Sweden’s Blykalla have signed a new memorandum of understanding that extends their existing collaboration to the maritime sector. The alliance seeks to integrate the technology of the SEALER reactor, a small modular reactor (SMR) lead-cooled reactor (SMR), into large commercial vessels with the aim of advancing the decarbonization of shipping.
What is the SEALER reactor?
Developed by Blykalla, the SEALER is a fourth-generation reactor with an electrical output of 55 MWe. Its compact and passively safe design allows it to operate without active cooling systems or constant monitoring.
Initially created for remote and arctic regions, its architecture has been adapted for maritime conditions within the framework of the research program NuProShip I.
ABB technology for nuclear-powered ships
According to Interesting Engineering, ABB will bring its expertise in electrificationautomation and power distribution to adapt the reactor to the demanding naval operating environments.
This includes integration with control systems, propulsion networks and on-board energy management. According to ABB, SMRs offer a viable technical solution to replace fossil fuels on long-range routes.
Regulatory context and institutional support
This development coincides with institutional support for nuclear-powered shipping. nuclear-powered. The IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 110) has approved updates to the Safety Code for Nuclear Powered Merchant Ships, paving the way for future commercial implementations.
The new agreement also includes joint technical evaluations and feasibility analyses. Interaction with classification societies and regulatory agencies is foreseen to validate the technical and safety requirements of the system.
With this initiative, ABB and Blykalla reinforce their position in the European clean technology ecosystem, aiming for more sustainable shipping through advanced nuclear power.
Source and photo: Blykalla
