Konecranes will supply replacement fuel handling machines for three reactor units to the Forsmark nuclear power plant, the largest electricity producer in Sweden. The order is part of the plant modernization work. The new machines are equipped with the latest Konecranes technology and operator interfaces to improve the productivity and safety of the plant operations. The order was booked in April, 2022.

Forsmark nuclear power plant in Sweden, mainly owned by Vattenfall, is currently modernizing their facilities to meet increased safety and environmental requirements, to prolong the service life of the reactor and to increase the output. They chose Konecranes to renew their fuel handling machines to support continued safe and productive operations.

The new Konecranes fuel handling machines comply with all major international nuclear standards and utilize single failure proof technology. This technology is designed to prevent load drop during the occurrence of any single failure of the lifting system. The Konecranes safety and diagnostic systems continuously monitor equipment operation which improves the safety of the fuel handling and the productivity of the nuclear power plant.

The equipment will be used to move the fuel assemblies between the reactor locations and fuel racks at each of the three units. The contract covers the replacement of all three fuel handling machines within five years to ensure they are ready for the scheduled refueling outages.

“This contract showcases Konecranes role in our customers’ work for securing critical societal functions, such as energy production. Forsmark nuclear power plant is a forerunner in their environmental work and imposes strict requirements on suppliers concerning quality and environmental issues, and we are proud to support them in their sustainability efforts,” says Steve Waisanen, Vice President and Head of BU Nuclear from Konecranes.

A strong focus on customers and commitment to business growth and continuous improvement make Konecranes a lifting industry leader. This is underpinned by investments in digitalization and technology, plus our work to make material flows more efficient with solutions that decarbonize the economy and advance circularity and safety.