Framatome and TerraPower have signed a major agreement to design and operate a pilot HALEU (medium-enriched uranium) metallization line at Framatome’s nuclear fuel fabrication plant in Richland, USA. This agreement marks a crucial step in strengthening the nuclear fuel supply chain, essential for the development of advanced nuclear reactors. The pilot line will demonstrate Framatome ‘s ability to convert uranium oxide (UO2) into HALEU metal, further strengthening the collaboration between the two companies. This initiative is part of TerraPower’s efforts to develop a robust domestic nuclear fuel supply chain to meet the industry’s energy needs.
Technology and Production
HALEU metallization is a key process in the conversion of uranium into metal, which is then used to manufacture fuel for advanced reactors. The pilot line currently under construction at Richland will demonstrate the viability of this technology, supporting the emerging market for advanced nuclear reactors. Chris Levesque, President and CEO of TerraPower, emphasized the importance of this investment in the development of NatriumTM technology. The collaboration with Framatome enables TerraPower to secure the supply of metallic raw materials needed to manufacture fuel for its reactors.
Strengthening the supply chain
The commissioning of the HALEU pilot plant in Richland is a decisive step for Framatome, which has also applied for funding under the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) HALEU Availability Program (HAP). This initiative aims to secure fuel supplies for advanced reactors and support industrial growth. Ala Alzaben, senior vice president for North America Fuel at Framatome, expressed his confidence in this pragmatic collaboration with TerraPower, stressing that it strengthens customer confidence in new nuclear fuel technologies. Large-scale metal production of HALEU is essential to meet the needs of advanced nuclear reactors.
Prospects and opportunities
Framatome and TerraPower see this pilot line as an opportunity to consolidate their position in the nuclear fuel market. The ability to supply HALEU in metal is a competitive advantage for both companies, enabling them to respond effectively to the growing demand for fuel for advanced reactors.
