The UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) has been appointed by the UK and Welsh governments to produce the outline design of a proposed national thermal hydraulic research and testing facility, to be built in north Wales.
The proposed centre will focus on thermal hydraulics — the movement of heat and fluids in the reactor during the conversion of nuclear energy into electricity.
Detailed understanding of these processes is vital in designing safe and efficient power stations — such as those planned for Wylfa Newydd in Anglesey and Hinkley Point C in Somerset — and in ensuring their safe operation throughout the several decades they are expected to generate electricity. The facility could also have wider uses in non-nuclear thermal hydraulic testing.
Outline planning permission has been secured at Menai Science Park, Anglesey, and the facility itself is expected to create around 30 permanent jobs.
The testing hardware will be accompanied by a research centre for up to 50 visiting scientists to carry out data analysis, computer modelling and simulation work.
Intended to be the most modern facility of its kind in the world, it is seen as integral to the development of advanced nuclear technologies.
Project director Colin Walters said: “UKAEA is already working with government and industry partners to upgrade the UK’s nuclear skills and facilities to compete with the best in the world.
“This key facility in north Wales will be another part of the UK’s nuclear renaissance.
"We are now consulting potential users of the centre, so we can incorporate their requirements in the outline design.”
Companies interested in participating in the design consultation should contact Amanda Brummitt at UKAEA:.