In Russia, Small Nuclear Reactor Vessels Will Be Manufactured Using 3D Printing
Russia is exploring large-scale 3D printing to accelerate nuclear equipment production and reduce reliance on lengthy metallurgical cycles
Small Reactors at Scale
Russia is preparing for a new leap in nuclear technology: the reactor vessel for the small nuclear power plant Elena‑AM may be produced using large‑format 3D printing. The announcement came from Alexander Kashtanov, Director General of the Prometey Central Research Institute, at the Future Technologies Forum.
Prometey is one of Russia’s leading materials science centers, traditionally responsible for developing alloys for icebreakers, submarines, power reactors, and spacecraft. With deep expertise in high‑strength steels and advanced alloys, the institute sees promising potential in applying additive manufacturing to reactor‑grade equipment.
According to Kashtanov, demand for small reactors—particularly for Arctic regions and remote industrial sites—may exceed 400 units in the coming years. Such scale requires new manufacturing approaches capable of dramatically accelerating production cycles.
Pilot Projects Already Underway
In parallel, the industry is testing additive manufacturing techniques for nuclear machinery. 3D printing is already used to fabricate complex heat‑exchanger components and pipeline fittings, including parts with intricate internal channels that are difficult or impossible to produce with traditional casting and machining.
Samples are now undergoing testing for strength, thermal resistance, and radiation tolerance—critical performance parameters for any equipment deployed in nuclear power plants.
Experts note that successful adoption of these technologies could significantly speed up construction of small nuclear installations across Russia. This is especially relevant for northern regions and major Arctic infrastructure projects. Additive manufacturing makes it possible to rapidly adapt reactor components to local conditions while optimizing material consumption.
