Swedish group Alleima has announced a new agreement with South Korean company Doosan Enerbility for the supply of approximately 200 kilometers of steam generator tubes for the Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) developed by NuScale Power. This contract marks a renewed commitment among the three companies in a rapidly expanding market.
The first collaboration between Alleima and Doosan Enerbility dates back to June 2023, when the Swedish manufacturer was selected for a similar contract. The steam generator tubes supplied under these agreements will be installed in one of the first VOYGR plant projects developed by NuScale Power, with modules expected to become operational by 2029.
NuScale’s SMR Technology: A Modular and Scalable Solution
The NuScale Power Module, the centerpiece of these projects, is a pressurized water reactor (PWR). Unlike conventional reactors, it integrates all necessary components for steam production and heat exchange into a compact unit. Each module has a generating capacity of 77 megawatts electric (MWe) and can be configured with 4 to 12 modules to meet customer energy needs.
In September 2020, this SMR design became the first to receive approval from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. This milestone allowed NuScale to position itself as a leader in the emerging SMR market, a technology considered a viable alternative to large-scale nuclear plants and a tool for decarbonizing energy systems.
An International and Strategic Project
NuScale’s initial project, the Carbon Free Power Project (CFPP), which planned the implementation of six SMR modules in Utah, was canceled in November 2023. However, NuScale and its partners, including Doosan Enerbility, redirected their efforts and equipment toward other international projects.
The first commercial project utilizing this technology will be built on a former coal plant site in Doicești, Romania. This pilot site could pave the way for a global expansion of the technology, addressing a growing demand for flexible, reliable, and low-carbon energy sources.
A Promising Market for Suppliers
Nigel Haworth, President of Alleima’s Tube Division, expressed enthusiasm for this renewed collaboration with Doosan Enerbility and NuScale Power. “This partnership strengthens our leadership in the field of steam generator tubes for SMRs, a sector experiencing significant growth,” he stated.
Jongdoo Kim, CEO of Doosan Enerbility’s Nuclear Business Group, praised Alleima’s contribution, highlighting the importance of the Swedish company’s technical expertise and proven products in the success of these innovative projects.
