Work has commenced on evaluating the changes in the metal properties of the reactor vessel for Unit 2 at the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant in Armenia.
This initiative is part of the preparations to extend the operation of the VVER-440 reactor for an additional ten years.
Installation of Material Samples
The Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom has announced that its subsidiary, JSC Rosatom Service, has placed material samples within the reactor vessel of Unit 2 during its ongoing scheduled maintenance outage.
These samples, housed in specialized containers, will provide crucial data for assessing the feasibility of extending the unit’s operational life until 2036.
According to Rosatom, the monitoring process involves tracking changes in the metal’s characteristics—such as strength and brittleness—using samples that are identical in composition to the reactor vessel material.
These samples will be extracted periodically and analyzed in laboratory conditions. The first round of sample extraction at the Metsamor plant is scheduled to begin in 2025, with subsequent extractions occurring annually.
Commitment to Safety and Reliability
Evgeny Salkov, General Director of Rosatom Service JSC, emphasized the importance of rigorous safety measures in the ongoing evaluation. “Rosatom has initiated the second extension phase for the country’s only nuclear power plant,” Salkov stated.
“Starting in 2025, our specialists will annually extract samples from the reactor vessel and monitor changes in metal properties. This meticulous approach ensures reliable oversight and thorough monitoring of this critical component.”
Previous Enhancements and Agreements
In November 2021, it was announced that the service life of Metsamor Unit 2 had been extended until 2026.
This extension followed a collaboration with Rosatom, which included modernizing the unit’s emergency cooling system, engine room, turbines, and steam generators.
Additionally, a unique process was carried out to anneal the reactor pressure vessel, restoring the vessel metal’s properties by 85% and allowing for further operation.
In December of the previous year, Rosatom Service JSC and the Armenian NPP signed an agreement under the intergovernmental economic cooperation commission between Russia and Armenia.
This agreement included developing research programs and manufacturing material samples for the plant, as part of preparations for the next extension phase.
Future Plans and Discussions
In January 2022, Rosatom formalized an agreement with the Armenian NPP to explore the construction of new Russian-designed reactor units at the current Metsamor site.
Armenia has been in discussions with Russia regarding the replacement of Metsamor, which currently operates two Russian-built VVER reactors—Unit 1, which began operation in 1976, and Unit 2, which started in 1980.
Both units were initially taken offline in 1988 due to seismic safety concerns. Unit 2 was restarted in 1995 and now provides approximately 39% of Armenia’s total electricity. Meanwhile, Unit 1 is undergoing decommissioning.
Conclusion
As the assessment of the Metsamor reactor vessel progresses, Rosatom’s commitment to safety and reliability remains a focal point. The extensive evaluation and planned enhancements reflect the importance of ensuring the continued operation of Armenia’s vital energy infrastructure.