Siemens Power Generation has won the contract to upgrade the low-pressure turbines at the 610 MWe boiling water reactor (BWR). The new turbines will use advanced three-dimensional blading technology, enabling them to make better use of the energy contained in the steam produced by the reactor. As well as the low-pressure turbines, Siemens will supply other related components and a new instrumentation and control system. According to Siemens, the upgrades will ensure high plant operating reliability and low power generation costs over the long term.Oskarshamn 2 is one of three BWRs at the site, operated by OKG, itself a Swedish subsidiary of EOn. It entered commercial operation in 1975. Unlike a pressurised water reactor, steam from a BWR is fed directly to the turbines without passing through a heat exchanger. The upgrades to unit 2 are planned for completion in 2009.
OKG signed a contract with Alstom for a 250 MWe upgrade of the larger and more modern Oskarshamn 3 in 2006, including a turbine upgrade as well as reactor upgrade.
Sweden has ten operating nuclear power units, generating up to half its electricity.
Further information
Siemens Power Generation
OKG
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