Nuclear Fuel Complex

Nuclear Fuel Complex

Type	Nuclear industry
Founded	1971
Headquarters	Hyderabad, India
Key people	R. N. Jayaraj, Chief Executive
Employees	3700
Website	http://www.nfc.gov.in

The Nuclear Fuel Complex (NFC) was established in 1971 as a major industrial unit of Department of Atomic Energy, for the supply of nuclear fuel bundles and reactor core components. It is a unique facility where natural and enriched uranium fuel, zirconium alloy cladding and reactor core components are manufactured under one roof. NFC symbolizes the strong emphasis on self-reliance in the Indian Nuclear Power Programme.

Natural uranium, mined around Jadugora in the Singhbhum area of Jharkhand state, is converted into nuclear fuel assemblies. A 220 MW PHWR fuel bundle contains 15.2 kg of natural uranium dioxide. Uranium dioxide pellets, which generate heat while undergoing fission, also generate fission products. The fission products, which are radioactive should be contained and not allowed to mix with coolant water. Hence the UO2, pellets are contained in zirconium alloy tubes with both ends hermetically sealed.

Located near the famous shrine of Moulali at Hyderabad, NFC is spread over 150 acres (0.61 km²). Production in its various plants started in the early seventies. Presently NFC has around 3700 personnel.

References