H. J. BOADO MAGAN, J. P. ORDONEZ INVAP S. E.,

San Carlos de Bariloche

A. HEY CNEA,

Buenos Aires

Argentina

Abstract

The CAREM Project is a iow power NPP of 25 Mwe, with an integrated self pressurized primary system The cooling of the primary system is of the natural circulation type and several passive safety systems are included The owner of the Project is Argentina s CNEA (Comision Nacional de Energia Atomica) and its associated company, INVAP, is the main contractor

The present status of the CAREM Project is presented The possible evolution of the CAREM project is mentioned in relation with a new containment design A short description of the Experimental Facilities, listed below, already in operation and under construction are also included

• CAPCN High Pressure Loop Natural convection loop to verily dynamic response and critical heat dux

• RA-8 Critical Facility, designed and constructed for the CAREM Project (that may be used as a general uses facility)

• RPV Internals The whole assembly of absorbent rods, connecting rods and the rode guides are being constructed in a 1 1 scale The aims of this experimental facility are vibration analysis and manufacturing parameters definitions

• Control Drive Mechanisms A sene of venficalion and tests are being earned out on these within RPV hydraulically dnven mechanisms

Other development activities are mentioned in relation with the tliermalhydrauhcs, Steam Generators and Control 1. CAREM Project Present status.