Mike emphasises the importance of working with suppliers in the valve industry . “ That ’ s where a π www . valve-world . net Valve World November 2024
Mike Parrott is a mechanical engineer with extensive experience in valve engineering and nuclear power . He currently works as a senior manager for commodity equipment at Rolls- Royce SMR , where he develops valve solutions for Small Modular Reactors ( SMRs ). We spoke with Mike to learn about the challenges and progress in valve engineering for this new nuclear technology .
Advancing valve engineering for new nuclear power systems
By Melonie Dodaro
The nuclear power industry is seeing renewed interest , with Small Modular Reactors ( SMRs ) leading this renewed focus . These compact , scalable nuclear reactors aim to be deployed faster and at lower costs compared to traditional large-scale plants . Rolls-Royce SMR is making notable progress in SMR development . Mike Parrott has been involved in Rolls-Royce SMR ’ s valve engineering efforts for nearly four years . His extensive experience in mechanical engineering and valve design provides valuable knowledge to this field .
Mike ’ s path to Rolls-Royce SMR
Mike ’ s career began with a ball valve manufacturer in the UK , where he worked on mechanical engineering design , calculations and drafting . He later joined Rolls-Royce ’ s Submarines business . “ I spent nine years in the Submarines business , supporting the UK nuclear submarines . Design , manufacturing , safety case and in-service support ,” Mike explains . This work gave him insights into nuclear engineering in confined spaces .
Rolls-Royce SMR ’ s progress
Rolls-Royce SMR has made significant progress in the UK market . Mike explains , “ We ’ ve just completed the generic design assessment step two .” The Generic Design Assessment process , overseen by the UK nuclear industry ’ s independent regulators , is a key milestone for Rolls-Royce SMR . Mike elaborates on the GDA process : “ It provides independent review of our safety , security , safeguards , waste management and environmental protection . We provide information to the regulators to provide confidence in our design , safety case , principles and processes .”
Focusing on consistent design
A main goal in SMR development is consistency in design , which can improve efficiency and reduce costs . Mike emphasises this point : “ We need to ensure consistency . This means using the same terminology across the industry , communicating clearly with suppliers and using consistent products within the plant .” This approach extends beyond terminology to the entire process of valve selection and design . “ We ’ re trying to reduce spare parts and improve maintenance procedures ,” Mike adds . “ We ’ re looking at how we can use one product in multiple areas of the plant .” The benefits of this consistency are significant . It simplifies maintenance , reduces inventory costs and streamlines manufacturing . Mike provides an example : “ We ’ ve designed a valve body that can be used in multiple manufacturing processes and in different areas of the plant . This allows for flexibility and consistency .”
Working together for new ideas
Mike emphasises the importance of working with suppliers in the valve industry . “ That ’ s where a π www . valve-world . net Valve World November 2024
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