NPCIL and BARC launches first private test facility for upgradation of depleted heavy water
NPCIL and BARC officials inaugurate India's first private facility for depleted heavy water upgradation. Built by TEMA India, the facility marks a major step toward self-reliance in nuclear technology.
The Higher Officials of State-owned NPCIL and BARC has unveiled the country’s first of its kind private test facility for the upgradation of depleted heavy water commissioned by TEMA India Ltd.
Director - Technical, NPCIL, Shri Rajesh V and Director, Chemical Engineering Group, BARC, Shri K. T. Shenoy has inaugurated the facility.
Designed and built by TEMA India’s nuclear vertical under technology transfer from BARC and a Purchase Order from NPCIL, this state-of-the-art facility marks achievement being realised for the first time in the private sector and is firmly aligned with the Prime Minister’s Atma-Nirbhar Bharat initiative.
Join PSU Connect on WhatsApp now for quick updates! Whatsapp Channel
Until now, critical testing infrastructure for heavy water distillation components existed solely within BARC.
Further, the first validated consignment of eight Distillation Column sections, comprising activated phosphor bronze modules, critical components for Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) was also unveiled.
These modules, having undergone rigorous in-house performance testing, are slated for deployment in key nuclear power projects: RAPP Unit 8, GHAVP Units 1–4, and KAIGA Units 5 & 6.
This initiative exemplifies greater self-reliance in high-tech, strategic sectors. By designing, manufacturing, and validating nuclear components entirely in-house, India reduces reliance on imported equipment and external test infrastructure.
It also helps build domestic capability, confidence, and long-term resilience, empowering Indian firms to contribute meaningfully to national energy security goals.
Read Also : Shipping Corporation of India gets New Government Nominee Director on Board