The Vandellós II nuclear power plant resumed its connection to the electricity grid, starting its 28th operating cycle. This reactivation marks the completion of its 27th Refueling, a crucial stage in which ANAV (Ascó-Vandellós II Nuclear Association) has allocated 24.5 million euros.
During the technical shutdown, some 1,000 professionals of different profiles participated in the scheduled tasks. More than half of them live in the region where the plant is located, which reinforces the positive impact of Vandellós II on the economic and social environment.
Reactor refurbishment and in-depth maintenance
As part of the work performed, 60 of the 157 reactor core elements were replaced. In addition, nearly 9,000 work orders were executed and 25 design modifications were made to different systems.
Some of the most outstanding actions include:
- Volumetric and eddy current inspection at the bottom of the reactor vessel.
- Overhaul of the internal reactor components.
- Mechanized inspection of the vessel and visual inspection of its lid.
- Cleaning of steam generators by sludge lancing technique.
- Replacement of the ‘B’ reactor cooling pump motor.
- Replacement of the three safety valves of the pressurizer.
Complete overhaul on generators and turbine system
In parallel, the safety diesel generators underwent a complete overhaul of their two engines, while the secondary circuit underwent improvements such as partial replacement of the high-pressure turbine blades and condenser expansion joints.
The works not only ensured the stability of the new cycle, but were also part of a strategic plan to prepare Vandellós II to continue operating beyond 40 years, a milestone that will be reached in December 2027. The inspections and technical upgrades are aligned with the standards required to extend the useful life of nuclear facilities. nuclear facilities in Spain.
What’s next
ANAV has already marked on the calendar its next major intervention; it will be in the spring of 2026, when the 31st refueling of unit 1 of the Ascó nuclear power plant will take place. With this planning, the operator seeks to consolidate the reliability and continuity of the Spanish nuclear fleet.
Source: ANAV