CAP1400

CAP1400 is a type of Generation III nuclear reactor technology developed in China. It is an advanced pressurized water reactor (PWR) with a power output of 1400 MWe, hence the name CAP1400. The technology is based on the AP1000 reactor design by Westinghouse Electric Company, but with modifications to increase the power output and incorporate Chinese nuclear technology standards and regulations.

Development

The development of the CAP1400 technology began in 2008 as part of China's strategy to increase its domestic nuclear power capacity and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. The project is led by the State Nuclear Power Technology Corporation (SNPTC), a subsidiary of the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC).

The design of the CAP1400 reactor incorporates passive safety features from the AP1000 design, which rely on natural forces such as gravity and convection, rather than mechanical systems, to maintain safety in the event of an emergency. These features include a passive cooling system, a core catcher to contain molten fuel in the event of a severe accident, and a containment structure designed to withstand a direct aircraft impact.

Construction

The first CAP1400 reactor is currently under construction at the Shidaowan Nuclear Power Plant in Shandong province. The construction began in 2014 and the reactor is expected to start operation in 2021. Once completed, it will be the largest PWR in China and one of the largest in the world.

Future Plans

China plans to build more CAP1400 reactors in the future as part of its goal to increase its nuclear power capacity. The technology is also being marketed for export to other countries, with potential customers including South Africa, Turkey, and Argentina.

See Also

• Nuclear power in China
• Generation III reactor
• AP1000
• Westinghouse Electric Company
• State Nuclear Power Technology Corporation
• China National Nuclear Corporation
• Shidaowan Nuclear Power Plant