Plant operator Asociacion Nuclear Asco-Vandellos (ANAV) has awarded a contract to Areva to supply filtered containment venting systems (FCVS) for the Asco 1&2 and Vandellos 2 nuclear reactors in Spain.

The systems are designed to maintain the integrity of the reactor containment building and protect the environment by ensuring the confinement of radioactive materials in the event of a serious accident generating a rise in internal pressure.

The FCVS technology was developed by Areva and meets the requirements of prominent safety authorities.

The technology is compatible with the various reactor types. Areva has installed more than 70 FCVS systems in 12 countries to date.

The technology is part of Areva’s Safety Alliance program, which offers nuclear operators the most advanced products and services to guarantee the safety of their plants.

More than 150 Areva Safety Alliance projects have been launched for 53 nuclear utilities in 19 countries, representing a total value of nearly €400m.

Areva’s Reactors & Services Business Group executive vice-president Philippe Samama said, “This new contract confirms our position as a world leader for this technology and demonstrates the confidence of our utility customers. It opens up new prospects for development worldwide.”

ANAV, which is a joint venture between Endesa and Iberdrola, covers the 40% of the country’s nuclear capacity, in Catalonia.