AREVA adopts innovative servicing technique for power plant valves

9/29/2010
News brief

A Reactors & Services Business Group team has developed an innovative technique for restoring the sealing surfaces of shut-off valves, in situ, without the need to completely remove the equipment for repair.

This technique, developed in 8 months from conception to successful operation and certified by the TÜV (the German safety authority), is a world premiere and a real innovation in valve services. Maintenance operations on valves are reduced as the repairs can be made in situ, generating time and money savings for the plant operator.

In the ISAR 2 German nuclear power plant, two gate valves have already been restored successfully using this technique. AREVA carried out the work within the time specified and complied with all safety and quality requirements. The Installed Base Business Unit would like to soon propose this technology outside of Germany.