China successfully develops first Hualong One nuclear reactor

Hualong One nuclear reactor completed tests in Fujian province, Nov 6, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

China's first nuclear reactor using Hualong One technology, a domestically developed third-generation reactor design, completed all the tests on Monday in Southwest China's Sichuan province.

Jointly designed by two nuclear power giants, China General Nuclear Power Group and China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), Hualong One pressurized water reactor is seen as another big step in the development of China's home-grown third-generation nuclear power facilities, after the country's first domestic CAP1400 pressurized water reactor successfully been made in September.

After going through 30 tests in four days, the Hualong One reactor passed all the tests with its designs and performances rated superior to the required standards.

In April 2015, the government approved the use of Hualong One technology to build two reactors unit 5 and 6 in Fuqing nuclear power plant in Fujian province, parallel with units 3 and 4 of Fangchenggang nuclear project in Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.

The Hualong One nuclear reactor, produced by Dongfang Electric Machinery Co Ltd (DFEM) for unit 5 and 6 in Fuqing, has a capacity of 1,200 MW.

After decades of learning and innovation, China has mastered the independent design and manufacturing of third-generation nuclear power facilities and become a pioneer in nuclear sector worldwide.

The country has actively promoted Hualong One at home and abroad. There are now four projects using Hualong One design under construction, including two reactors in Karachi, Pakistan. China is also seeking regulatory approval for the model in Britain.