The dismantling and preparation for transport of the steam generators at the German Nuclear Power Plant Unterweser (KKU), operated by PreussenElektra GmbH, was successfully completed in June.

This achievement was made possible through the extensive preparatory work carried out by NUKEM Technologies Engineering Services GmbH (NUKEM). It marks another significant milestone in the ongoing decommissioning of the plant.
In October 2021, NUKEM was commissioned to carry out preparations for the so-called “Rip & Ship” dismantling method*. 

Extensive On-Site Technical Services 

As part of the project, NUKEM conducted on-site verification and validation of all four steam generators. Comprehensive sealing of all openings was performed to ensure transport safety. In addition, specialized attachment points were installed, and all external surfaces were coated with a protective layer to prevent the spread of potential contamination.
NUKEM was responsible for detailed design, procurement of all necessary covers, anchors, and coating materials, as well as mechanical installation and painting. Upon completion, full technical documentation of all activities was compiled and handed over.

Complex Removal Successfully Executed 

Between May and June 2025, the approximately 300-ton steam generators were physically removed from the reactor building. Due to tight spatial constraints, each unit had to be carefully rotated, tilted, and maneuvered in multiple stages during the lifting process. While the first lift took around 18 hours, the duration was reduced to approximately 11 hours by the time the fourth generator was removed. All components were successfully positioned in the designated staging area within four weeks, as planned.

Next Steps and Outlook 

Final minor repairs will be carried out before transport. The steam generators will then be shipped to Sweden, where they will be dismantled and partially melted down at a specialized facility.

Efficient Project Execution Through Strong Collaboration 

The success of this project reflects the coordinated and collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved. Large-scale decommissioning projects like this demand rigorous planning, precise execution, and seamless interface management. In such contexts, experience, reliability, and teamwork are key to success.

* The “Rip & Ship” method involves removing large components, such as steam generators, in one piece to enable further processing and disposal outside the controlled nuclear area.

NUKEM Technologies Engineering Services GmbH in Karlstein am Main, Germany, is world-wide active in the areas of management of radioactive waste and spent fuel, decommissioning of nuclear facilities, engineering and consulting. For more than 60 years NUKEM provides high quality products, technologies and services, where Innovation, Solutions and Excellence are closely linked.

Contact:
Bea Heinze
NUKEM Technologies Engineering Services GmbH
Zeche Gustav 6, 63791 Karlstein am Main
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.nukemtechnologies.de