Welding of the main circulation pipeline, connecting the reactor, steam generators, and main circulation pumps, has been completed at Akkuyu NPP Unit 2. This is a key operation that forms a single first circuit of the reactor facility.

Work on all 32 joints took 73 days. Each weld underwent high-temperature heat treatment to relieve internal metal stresses, and an anti-corrosion overlay was applied to the inner surface. Quality was checked by ultrasonic, capillary, and radiographic methods. Upon completion of welding, the first circuit was formed, creating conditions for piping equipment and preparing for commissioning.

The main circulation pipeline is one of the most critical elements of the reactor facility. During operation, demineralized water with a temperature of up to 330 degrees Celsius and a pressure of about 160 atmospheres will circulate through it. The total length of the pipes exceeds 150 meters, and the wall thickness is 70 millimeters. It is through the MCP that the coolant transfers thermal energy from the reactor to the steam generators, where steam is generated for the turbogenerator.

Akkuyu NPP is the first nuclear power plant in Turkey, and the project includes four power units with VVER Generation 3+ reactors, each with a capacity of 1200 MW. Construction is carried out according to the Build-Own-Operate model. The completion of MCP welding moves the second power unit into the commissioning preparation stage.