2004-07-03 - Fast-track contract for replacement 340 MVA generator transformer will bring Sizewell A’s Reactor One back on-line before the end of 2004
ABB has won a £1.3 million fast-track contract to supply a replacement GSU (generator step-up unit) transformer for Sizewell A, BNFL’s 420 MW Magnox nuclear power station on the Suffolk coast.
The new generator transformer, which will step up Sizewell A’s 17.5 kV terminal voltage to the 145 kV required for the National Grid, will replace the existing unit which failed in March 2004, causing Reactor One of the power station’s two reactors to be taken off-line.
The key to ABB’s success in winning this contract was its capability to provide a fast response to BNFL’s urgent need for a replacement transformer. As David Sullivan, UK Product Marketing Manager for ABB Power Transformers, said "Within just 10 days of the initial enquiry we were able to specify the new transformer, pass BNFL’s factory quality audit, achieve factory approval, produce a quotation and agree the contract. We have also been able to guarantee delivery within seven months, which should bring Reactor One back on-line for November this year."
The 17.5/145 kV 340 MVA generator transformer will be based on ABB’s Trafostar common design and engineering platform for power transformers and will be manufactured in ABB’s Lodz factory in Poland. Marcin Rutkowski, Sales Manager for ABB Power Transformers, said "The excellent cooperation between ABB UK, ABB Poland and BNFL has enabled us to offer a very competitive price and exceptional delivery time".
ABB Background
ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 113,000 people.