In the first quarter of 2021, GDES Revanti France completed a new and extensive metallisation service on the internal surfaces of 4 moisture separator reheaters (MSR) and 3 BA (purge tanks) at Unit 4 of the Bugey Nuclear Power Plant (France).

Metallisation of the internal surface of the MSRs has provided them with a protective layer to slow down the natural erosion and corrosion processes of this type of equipment. The aim is to keep this degradation process in check and to extend their service life, thus avoiding much more expensive repairs or even the prospect of having to replace these systems.

The project begins with the marking out and containment of the area to be treated, followed by surface preparation with abrasives and application of the protective coating (metallisation). A true human and technical challenge for our client and for our team due to the limited manoeuvring space. The service was a great success, both in the technical solution provided and the level of specialisation of the team that carried out the treatment.

This metallisation project was notable for its unique approach. In 2018 GDES was the first company to successfully conclude a metallisation project of this type in the French nuclear industry. In its development GDES carried out a prior phase of studies and tests, creating a scale model and seeking approval for the system to be employed. Since our first operation at the Civaux Nuclear Power Plant, GDES has carried out 12 operations for EDF; the latest, at Unit 4 of Bugey Nuclear Power Plant, was the largest (113 m2) and most complex in terms of the surface area to be treated.