The upcoming Unit-4 of the Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP-4) of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) achieved criticality, for the first time, on December 17, 2023.
In a release, NPCIL said that criticality, which is the start of controlled fission chain reaction, was achieved after meeting all the stipulations of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). Further, criticality of KAPP-4 was achieved within six months of commercial operation of KAPP-3.
KAPP-4 is the second in the series of sixteen indigenous Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) of 700 MW each being set up in the country. The first was KAPP-3 that turned commercial on June 30, 2023.
Next steps
After the first criticality, several experiments and tests will be conducted in KAPP-4 and the power level raised in steps, in line with the clearances of AERB, ultimately culminating in operation of the unit at full power.
Indigenous PHWRs
KAPP-3 and KAPP-4 are located at Kakrapar in Surat district of Gujarat, adjacent to the existing reactors KAPS 1&2 (2×220 MW). These indigenous PHWRs have advanced safety features and are among the safest reactors in the world. While these reactors have been designed, constructed, commissioned and operated by NPCIL, the supply of equipment and execution of contracts have been by Indian entities, and thus the true reflection of the spirit of AtmaNirbhar Bharat, NPCIL said.
NPCIL portfolio
NPCIL presently operates 23 reactors with a total capacity of 7,480 MW and has nine units (including KAPP-4) with a capacity of 7,500 MW under construction. In addition, 10 more reactors with a total capacity of 7,000 MW are in pre-project activities. These are expected to be completed progressively by FY32.
Featured photograph shows overview of NPCIL’s Kakrapar Atomic Power Project. (Photo: NPCIL)
