The eVinci microreactor eVinci prototype has reached an essential milestone by obtaining Preliminary Safety Design Report (PSDR) approval from the U.S. Department of Energy. This validation paves the way for its integration into the NRIC-DOME test facility at the Idaho National Laboratory.
About the eVinci microreactor
The eVinci reactor is based on heat pipe technology and utilizes TRISO fuel. Its 3 MWt test version aims to demonstrate the feasibility of the design for future commercial developments that would reach up to 5 MWe. The design is intended to operate for more than eight years without refueling and to be deployed in remote regions, military bases and even space environments.
Westinghouse is one of a select number of companies receiving federal funding to advance engineering and test planning in the NRIC-DOME. The submission of the PSDR in 2024 marked the culmination of that stage, now allowing the Preliminary Documented Safety Analysis to move forward.
In parallel, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has approved two critical documents: the instrumentation and control (I&C) system and the reactor structural design criteria. This facilitates the licensing process and creates certainty for future commercial applications.
Flexibility and deployment potential
The modular structure of the eVinci allows for factory assembly and containerized transport. In addition to electricity, it can generate high-temperature heat, ideal for industrial processes and production of alternative fuels such as hydrogen. Its ability to operate autonomously positions it as a versatile energy option for demanding contexts.
With these advances, Westinghouse consolidates its leadership in the development of portable and safe micro-reactors, marking a firm step towards a new generation of distributed nuclear energy.
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Source and photo: Westinghouse
