Flowserve CAV Nuclear Pump
The Flowserve CAV Nuclear Pump is built to serve the most demanding applications in nuclear power plants, where safety, reliability and regulatory compliance are critical. This ASME Section III, Class 2 and Class 3 compliant pump is specifically engineered for chemical and volume control system charge service. It is compatible with boiling water reactors (BWR), pressurized water reactors (PWR), and pressurized heavy-water reactors (PHWR).
These vertical inline centrifugal pumps are designed to meet rigorous performance and quality requirements defined by nuclear standards, such as ASME Section III and RCC-M. The pump construction supports a wide range of nuclear system applications, where long service life and minimal maintenance are essential.
CAV Nuclear Pump Applications
The CAV Nuclear Pump is widely used in the chemical and volume control systems of nuclear reactors. It is also suitable for both safety-related and non-safety-related services, including auxiliary cooling, feed systems and service water systems.
Industries
Power Generation – specifically nuclear power plants.
Standards
ASME Section III, RCC-M, AREVA piping compatibility.
CAV Nuclear Pump Key Features
- Suction and discharge connections are designed to meet AREVA piping standards for seamless integration in nuclear systems.
- The outer casing is built to handle full system working pressure and complies with pressure boundary regulations for nuclear-class equipment.
- An internal crossover in the inner assembly reduces hydraulic thrust and extends bearing life.
- The cartridge mechanical seal design minimizes downtime during maintenance and reduces man-rem exposure.
- The bearing housing is mounted in the motor stand, allowing the use of standard motors without thrust bearings.
- A four-piece spacer coupling enables fast access to the bearings and seal without removing the motor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a CAV pump?
A CAV Nuclear Pump is a vertical inline centrifugal pump designed specifically for use in nuclear facilities. It is built to meet strict standards such as ASME Section III and RCC-M. These pumps serve in chemical and volume control systems in various reactor designs and feature robust construction for maximum reliability.
2. What is a nuclear pump?
A nuclear pump is any pump that supports the operation of a nuclear power plant. This includes systems such as the Reactor Coolant Pump (RCP), safety injection systems, auxiliary water pumps and volume control systems. These pumps must perform under extreme temperature, pressure and radiation exposure while adhering to nuclear safety regulations.
3. What pump is used to move water in a nuclear plant?
The primary water movement in a nuclear reactor is handled by the Reactor Coolant Pump (RCP). This pump circulates the coolant through the reactor core, transferring heat away from the fuel rods to the steam generators. This function is essential to maintain core stability and safe thermal operation.
4. What is the voltage of the coolant pump motor?
Reactor coolant pumps are generally powered by high-voltage electric motors. A common configuration includes 6 kV motors supplied by non-vital distribution systems with emergency diesel generator backup. These motors must deliver constant performance during both normal operation and emergency shutdown scenarios.
Flowserve Pumps for Nuclear Power Aftermarket Services
Our engineering team is experienced in providing nuclear-grade pump solutions, including CAV vertical inline and reactor coolant pump systems. Our designs are backed by decades of nuclear expertise and built to meet the most demanding safety and regulatory standards. Contact us today for technical consultation, product specifications or custom engineering support tailored to your facility’s needs.
