Practical implementation of the nuclear power plant project has begun in Uzbekistan: the first reactor billet has been sent for forging

The project for the construction of the first nuclear power plant in the history of Uzbekistan has entered the stage of practical implementation. The first stage of the production cycle has been completed — the reactor element blank has been cast and sent to the forging stage. This step marks the beginning of real work on the NPP infrastructure after a long period of technical preparation and approvals.

The process of manufacturing key components for a nuclear reactor is carried out at a specialized metallurgical production facility. In particular, the technology of steel smelting in an arc steelmaking furnace is used, where the temperature of the molten metal reaches 1700 degrees Celsius. At this stage, it is critical to ensure that the chemical composition and physical properties of a material that can withstand extreme operating conditions for decades — including high temperatures, pressure, and radiation exposure-are precisely matched.

After smelting, the metal is processed by plastic deformation-forging - which allows you to set the necessary structure and shape. Then comes the stage of mechanical and thermal processing, during which the workpiece is given precise geometric parameters and mechanical characteristics that meet the requirements of nuclear power.

The NPP construction project was announced at the highest level in 2018. However, the following years were not easy: the implementation process was delayed, including due to public debate and technical approvals. The launch of production operations was a confirmation that the project has finally moved from the conceptual stage to implementation.

The construction of a nuclear power plant is considered as a strategic step in the context of ensuring the energy security of Uzbekistan, increasing the stability of the energy system and introducing advanced technologies. It is expected that the NPP will become one of the key facilities in the new energy architecture of the country.