Small Modular Reactors - common design features

The new SMR designs are based on many decades of reactor construction and operating experience. The common features of different small reactor designs include:

* modularity (factory fabrication of modules and shorter construction time),

* increased safety margins and reduced severe accident probability and consequences (inherent safety features that reduce or eliminate the need for engineered safety systems),

* suitability to local electrical grid requirements,

* design flexibility for applications beyond power generation (district heating and desalination), and

* lower initial capital investment.

[Source: Argonne National Laboratory, "Small Modular Reactors", August 30, 2001]