Practical experience for seminar participants in Angra dos Reis
The XIV International Nuclear Energy Seminar, held on November 24, dedicated its last day to a technical visit to the Almirante Álvaro Alberto Nuclear Power Plant. Located in Angra dos Reis, on the south coast of Rio de Janeiro, the plant houses the Angra 1, 2 and 3 nuclear plants. The group of participants, leaving from Rio de Janeiro, had the opportunity to get to know the Angra 2 plant up close and explore the Nuclear Observatory, guided by experienced professionals from Eletronuclear.
José Chain, head of the Public Relations and Regional Communication Department at Eletronuclear, received the group at the Nuclear Observatory. The visit was led by Gustavo Bidetti, who presented a global vision of nuclear energy and its impact on Brazil and the world. He highlighted the energy efficiency of uranium, comparing a 7g pellet of uranium dioxide with significant amounts of coal, diesel oil and natural gas.
Technical in-depth analysis of the Angra 2 plant
The highlight of the visit was the Technical Support Center (CST) at the Angra 2 plant, a vital structure for monitoring and managing possible crises at the plant. Inspired by lessons learned from the Three Mile Island accident in the US, CST allows staff to monitor plant operations in real time, facilitating rapid response to any incident.
Participants also visited the Angra 2 operations simulation room, a space dedicated to intensive training of future plant operators. Gustavo explained the rigorous selection and training process, which includes three years of preparation and weekly assessments, highlighting the high responsibility and commitment required for this role.
Impressions and impact of the visit
The technical visit was particularly impactful for Anselmo Pontes, a doctoral student in atmospheric modeling focused on nuclear projects. His constant presence at events related to nuclear energy is part of his dedication to his doctorate. Pontes expressed his admiration for the quality of both the Seminar and the visit, highlighting the improvements and deepening provided by the guided experience at the Nuclear Observatory.
This unique opportunity for hands-on learning and immersion in the world of nuclear energy provided participants with a comprehensive and realistic view of the sector. The visit to the Angra 2 plant, one of the pillars of nuclear energy in Brazil, offered a valuable perspective on the operations, safety and future of nuclear energy in the country.
Source: Nelza Oliveira / Primeira Linha Comunicações.
