IMI Maxseal nuclear valves support life extension for an Argentine reactor

IMI has delivered 31 nuclear-qualified solenoid valves to support life-extension work for a nuclear reactor in Argentina. Built on a proven design with a strong track record across industrial service, these units replace obsolete legacy valves originally fitted at the facility.  The plant forms part of a large global fleet of nuclear installations constructed prior to 1990, which accounts for roughly two-thirds of operating reactors worldwide. As these ageing assets continue in service, original components often fall out of production and support. In many cases, legacy hardware can no longer satisfy the nuclear sector’s latest qualification rules and compliance standards.  For this Argentinian site, the existing IMI Herion valve range required replacement with a modern alternative capable of meeting current nuclear regulatory requirements and securing the plant’s long-term safety outlook. IMI engineers collaborated closely with the customer’s technical team to develop a drop-in replacement solution based on Maxseal nuclear technology. Polymeric and elastomeric materials were upgraded to satisfy strict radiation-resistance specifications.  The project validates the capability of IMI Maxseal nuclear valves to execute critical safety functions under extreme nuclear conditions. Comprehensive qualification testing verified performance against seismic events, vibration loads, radiation ageing and loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) scenarios.  Marc Norris, Technical Director of Process Automation at IMI, commented: “The challenges encountered on this Argentinian project are widely shared across the nuclear industry. Plant operators globally are pursuing reactor life extension programmes, while phasing out obsolete equipment in favour of solutions that meet modern safety benchmarks.  “By leveraging a technology platform with a well-established severe-service pedigree, we were able to build upon existing qualification evidence, field history and accumulated engineering knowledge. This approach allowed us to deliver the customer a sustainable, long-term replacement for their end-of-life valves.”