KHNP builds i-SMR operation simulator

Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) announced on Friday that it established a simulator at its central research center to verify the operational suitability of the innovative small modular reactor (i-SMR).

The i-SMR, developed with government support, is a Korean-style small modular reactor that reduces the power generation capacity to 170 megawatts (MW) compared to the existing large nuclear power plants of over 1,000 MW and applies modular manufacturing techniques.

KHNP explained that the construction period can be significantly shortened, and safety equipment designed to cool the reactor in the event of an accident can operate without separate controls or power supply, greatly enhancing safety.

The i-SMR operation verification simulator will verify the design and operational suitability.

The verification results derived during the simulator operation process will be reflected in the future standard design process.

The developed simulator is an initial version that reflects the concept and basic design of the i-SMR.

KHNP aims to incorporate additional design elements and complete the first development phase by September 2025.

Write to Hyeon-woo Oh at ohw@hankyung.com