Framatome has been selected by Electrabel for two major projects: the modernization of the Flux Monitoring System (FMS) of the Tihange 3 reactor, and the modernization, maintenance, and operational support of the motors and stators of the Reactor Coolant Pumps (RCP) at Doel 4 and Tihange 3. These contracts follow the agreement signed in 2023 between ENGIE and the Belgian government to extend the operational lifetime of these two reactors.
The modernization of the FMS system at Tihange 3, planned over several years, aims to fully replace the existing system. It includes every phase, from engineering studies to the supply of all necessary electrical, electronic, and mechanical components. On-site installation and ongoing maintenance operations are also part of the project scope.
The FMS system plays a critical role in reactor control providing precise measurements of neutron power distribution within the reactor core and ensuring that the core's behavior aligns with both design and operational expectations.
The second contract covers the modernization, maintenance, and operational support of the three motor stators of the RCPs at Tihange 3 and Doel 4, including the supply of spare parts. Within the primary loop, the primary motor pumps are crucial for the safety and efficiency of nuclear power plants. Framatome has a long-standing history of manufacturing, maintaining, and repairing the internals, motors, and stators of these rotating components at its industrial facilities in northern France.
“These two contracts reflect Electrabel's renewed confidence in Framatome and our ability to support our customers in modernizing their nuclear facilities. We are proud to contribute to the lifetime extension and safety of the Belgian nuclear fleet,” said Frédéric Lelièvre, Senior Executive Vice President, Sales, Regional Platforms, and I&C Business Unit at Framatome. “Today's agreements reaffirm our long-term commitment to supporting safe, cost-effective, reliable, and low-carbon electricity production in Belgium.”
These contracts are part of a larger European movement toward a responsible energy transition, where the safe lifetime extension of existing nuclear power plants plays a key role in ensuring security of supply and decarbonizing the energy mix.