Framatome to engineer and install reactor vessel closure head replacement for Arkansas Nuclear One

August 1,  2024 – Framatome announced today the signature of a contract with Entergy Nuclear for engineering and installation services for the reactor vessel closure head replacement project at Arkansas Nuclear One (ANO) Unit 2. Engineering analysis and installation planning is underway with the replacement and project completion planned for the Spring 2026 regularly scheduled maintenance and refueling outage.

“As our industry gears up for the next generation of nuclear reactors, it’s paramount we also maintain and modernize our existing nuclear facilities for safe, reliable, clean energy generation,” said Erik Dorman, executive vice president of Framatome’s Installed Base Business Unit in North America. “Understanding that innovation thrives on collaboration, we worked closely with Entergy Nuclear to engineer a customized replacement process that will enhance the implementation and ensure equipment reliability and efficiency for ANO’s long-term operations.”

The comprehensive project includes removal and replacement of the component’s service structure, control element drive mechanisms, coil stacks, transmitters, heavy rigging and modification and restoration of the existing equipment hatch.

Arkansas Nuclear One is a source of safe, clean, secure and reliable power located in Russellville, Arkansas. The site is home to two pressurized water reactors that generate enough power to meet approximately 65% of the total energy demand of Entergy Arkansas’ 730,000 customers.