Next Phase of Work on the Conversion of Research Reactors at the NNC RK

Conversion of research reactors continues at the National Nuclear Center. One of the key areas of focus is the safe repackaging and subsequent reprocessing of highly enriched uranium fuel from the reactor IGR.

For these works, a specialized section is created, equipped with a radiation-shielding box. Inside it will be installed the L-positioner with a lifting capacity of 1.25 tons, manufactured by the Italian company Sideros Engineering. The equipment is designed for safe removal of HEU fuel from cylindrical containers.

From September 21 to 25, specialists from NNC RK together with representatives from the Sideros Engineering and the United States Department of Energy National Laboratories carried out the installation and physical start-up of equipment. As part of this work tests were also conducted on the L-positioner, and personnel training in its operation.  

Behind the installation and testing of new equipment lies a specific goal: to ensure safe performance of technological operations involving HEU fuel in the IGR reactor. It is precisely these sequential practical steps that make up the extensive work involved in the conversion of the research reactors at the National Nuclear Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan.