SeAH Besteel has achieved another milestone in strengthening the safety of Korea’s nuclear power plants.

The company previously earned certification from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and successfully exported these casks to North America. This time, SeAH Besteel successfully completed the first domestic delivery of “KN-18 spent nuclear fuel transport casks” to Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP). Through this project, SeAH Besteel has once again demonstrated its technical expertise and manufacturing capabilities in the nuclear equipment sector.

In 2023, SeAH Besteel secured a contract worth approximately KRW 35 billion from KHNP to supply the KN-18 transport casks. The initial delivery was carried out successfully. These casks have been shipped to the Hanbit Nuclear Power Plant in Yeonggwang, South Jeolla Province, as part of Korea’s Basic Plan on Electricity Supply and Demand. Additional deliveries are scheduled for later this year to the Hanul Nuclear Power Plant in Uljin, North Gyeongsang Province.

The KN-18 casks, manufactured by SeAH Besteel, are designed to transport up to 18 bundles of spent nuclear fuel generated from light-water reactors, which use water as both a moderator and coolant. Through design improvements, the new KN-18 offers enhanced performance and safety compared to previous models.

With temporary storage at Korea's nuclear power plants nearing full capacity, the KN-18 casks present a critical solution. These casks are specifically engineered to securely contain high-level radioactive materials. They are also built to withstand extreme conditions, including earthquakes and external impacts, ensuring the safe and reliable transport of spent nuclear fuel.

In 2022, SeAH Besteel became the first Korean company to pass the NRC’s rigorous Quality Assurance Program review. It also supplied dual-purpose casks for spent fuel transport and storage to Xcel Energy, a U.S. utility company known for its strict procurement standards. These achievements have demonstrated SeAH Besteel's technological prowess and reputation as a reliable supplier in the global nuclear equipment market.

Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy projects that the country’s wet storage facilities for spent nuclear fuel will hit full capacity, beginning with the Hanbit Nuclear Power Plant in 2030, followed by the Hanul and Kori plants by 2032. The World Nuclear Association (WNA) estimates that over 400,000 tons of spent fuel have already accumulated worldwide, driving increased demand for transport and storage casks.

A SeAH Besteel representative stated, “The first delivery of KN-18 casks is a meaningful step, contributing to the development of Korea’s nuclear ecosystem while reaffirming the strength and reliability of SeAH Besteel’s manufacturing technology.” The spokesperson added, “The nuclear market is defined by high technological barriers, proven delivery track records, and strict safety requirements. Through continuous R&D investment and active participation in national projects, SeAH Besteel aims to solidify its role as a key supplier in the global nuclear equipment industry.”

With this initial delivery of KN-18 casks, SeAH Besteel is expected to break through new technological frontiers in the nuclear sector and further establish itself as a global leader in the field.