Framatome and the Research Centre Řež (CVR) have signed a technical cooperation to develop methodological approaches to facilitate operation with different fuel types for the Czech research reactor LVR-15. The signature ceremony took place in presence of the French Ambassador to the Czech Republic, highlighting the agreement's focus on joint European development and innovation in reactor core modelling.
The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between Framatome and CVR in the operation and management of different types of research reactor fuel, aiming at enhancing the safety, the efficiency, and the performance of the LVR-15 reactor.
“Framatome is proud to support the Research Centre Řež and the operation of the Czech LVR-15 research reactor,” said Mario Leberig, Vice President Fuel Design & Engineering, Fuel Business Unit at Framatome. “By combining our global expertise in nuclear engineering and fuel with the unique experimental facilities of Řež, we can together develop innovative fuel engineering support that will benefit research and nuclear energy development in the Czech Republic and Europe.”
CVR is a Czech research organization with extensive experience in nuclear research, development, and testing. CVR operates the LVR-15 research reactor and other facilities, contributing significantly to nuclear science, technology, and education. Framatome and CVR started cooperation on LVR-15 fuel development more than 10 years ago.
“This agreement marks an important milestone in our mission to contribute to the safe operation of the LVR-15 reactor. By working with Framatome, we can further strengthen our research capabilities and our contribution to nuclear science, technology, and education in the Czech Republic and Europe,” said Petr Březina, CEO of CVR.
Following the signature, Framatome and CVR will now set up a joint working group to carry out preparatory work, including the development of neutronics calculation models based on the LVR‑15 research reactor operational experience. The partners will jointly define the engineering approach and the analyses required for mixed core analysis and future optimization scenarios.
