Sheffield Forgemasters expands SMR pact with Holtec

Published: 21 November 2024

The US’ largest exporter of nuclear components, Holtec, has expanded its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sheffield Forgemasters to support the manufacture of component parts for Holtec’s SMR-300 Small Modular Reactor (SMR).

The new MoU agrees that both parties will Collaborate on the design and manufacture of component parts for 16 of Holtec’s SMR-300 Small Modular Reactors from 2026 to 2050 and identification of further production collaboration for other Holtec civil nuclear components.

It will see qualification work for Sheffield Forgemasters, as a Holtec approved supplier of nuclear safety significant components, and review of the design for manufacture and purchase specifications for such identified forgings, to maximise efficiency.

Working in partnership, Sheffield Forgemasters and Holtec will also seek to apply for opportunities relevant to the prototype manufacturing of components and testing of unique processes in order to reduce costs.

The expanded agreement is the latest in a long list of commitments from nuclear suppliers to work with Sheffield Forgemasters on new-nuclear projects, with the company holding unique status as the UK’s only supplier of large, nuclear-grade castings and forgings.

Sheffield Forgemasters has signed civil nuclear MOUs with GE Hitachi, Rolls-Royce SMR, X-Energy, Cavendish Nuclear, EDF and Holtec.

 

Image One - An artist’s impression of Holtec’s SMR-300 Small Modular Reactor

Image Two - Martin Kearney, Director of Capability & Innovation at Sheffield Forgemasters and Gareth Thomas, Director at Holtec Britain sign the expanded MoU.