China goes ahead with nuclear

Ling Ao Unit 4, the second unit of Ling Ao Phase II nuclear power plant, entered commercial operation in China on 7 August 2011. Alstom has provided key equipment and services to the nuclear power plant and entered into the warranty period. After the operation of Unit 4, the Daya Bay/Ling Ao complex has become the largest nuclear power plant in the Guangdong province, with more than 50% of China’s total units in operation. With these two additional 1080 MWe units, Guangdong province becomes one of the handful regions in the world with nuclear plants topping 6000 MWe in operation.

Similar to its sister unit Ling Ao Unit 3, Unit 4 also started up earlier than scheduled. Alstom and its long-established partner Dongfang Electric Corporation, Ltd (DECL) have once again joined hands in supplying turbine generator units and related auxiliary equipments to this important nuclear project.

Among the total 4 units in the Ling Ao nuclear power plant, Unit 4 enjoys the highest localization rate, with the main conventional island components designed by Alstom and supplied in partnership with DECL. The key components include GIGATOP 4 pole turbogenerator, Moisture Separator Reheater (MSR), the Condenser and the Low Pressure (LP) heater, and most of all, Alstom’s Arabelle half-speed steam turbine, which is renowned for its compatibility with all reactor types, high efficiency, extended design lifetime, short overhaul periods, and low maintenance costs.

Alstom’s Arabelle technology has been widely applied to the prestigious nuclear projects in China, such as Hongyanhe, Ningde, Fuqing and Fangjiashan, as well as at Taishan, China’s first EPR project.

As a leading supplier for China’s nuclear industry, Alstom’s presence in China’s nuclear energy market dates back to more than 20 years. Partnering with DECL, Alstom has been involved in most of China’s major nuclear projects by supplying close to 50% of conventional islands. The smooth and proven cooperation between the two parties ensured success in the Chinese nuclear market.