Michell Bearings has developed a prototype bearing and test rig as part of a project to supply bearings to a series of major nuclear power projects in India.

The test rig and bearing protype were designed to replicate various bearing operating conditions, such as the speed, bearing loads and water temperature.

Designed for optimal performance, the test rig consists of a 400 kW electric motor to drive the shaft of the test bearing, a closed-circuit water circulation system delivering 17,400 litres of water per hour at 35 °C, and an uninterruptable power supply for backup power during outages.

Over the past decade, substantial investments have been made to demonstrate Michell Bearings’ capability to operate within the nuclear industry, particularly targeting the Indian market. Following the test rig’s success, a set of bearings for a reactor coolant pump will be manufactured for the first time, a market that has been heavily dominated by one supplier in India.

Paul Bruce, Engineering Director at Michell Bearings, said: “Through the combined efforts of both Michell Bearings sites, and a significant level of investment in our UK test facility, we have successfully demonstrated our ability to provide an alternative supplier for the customer, whilst opening a window of opportunities for nuclear power stations in India.

“Completing such a complex test in a short period of time was a tremendous achievement.”

The bearings, which are set to be manufactured later this year, will support the reactors within the nuclear power station.

Each reactor will be equipped with four vertical shaft coolant pumps. The bearings’ critical role is to support the shafts of the reactor coolant pumps and motors, which are critical to maintaining the safe operation of the nuclear power plant.

The bearings have been engineered to withstand the associated operating loads, including potential seismic events.

AP Malpani, Managing Director at Michell Bearings India, said: “The teamwork between our UK and India teams marks an exciting path for nuclear power projects in India. I’m excited to see what the future brings as we enter this new market.”

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