Russia’s Kalinin nuclear power plant is to become a pilot site for the introduction of an innovative robotic fire extinguishing complex.

The project is scheduled to begin in 2021, according to Viktor Nikiforov,  Deputy Director of the Technological Branch for Production Issues - Head of the Fire Safety Service at nuclear utility Rosenergoatom (part of state nuclear corporation Rosatom).

He said this is a completely domestic development that allows for the remote extinguishing of fires in the production rooms of the machine room.

Its main goal is to protect the main equipment and supporting structures.

The complex consists of a compression unit and robotic fire monitors with thermal imagers.

In case of detection of a source of ignition, fire extinguishing starts automatically or when the operator is in a safe zone.

“This system uses compression foam to extinguish fires. It envelops the burning surface and forms a dense foam coating, which does not allow oxygen to penetrate. Due to this, combustion stops almost instantly. The time to extinguish a fire is significantly reduced,” said Nikiforov.

Based on the results of an audit, members of the commission, which included representatives of the Russian Emergencies Ministry and Rosenergoatom, noted significant changes in the field of fire protection over the past three years.

The fire safety level of Kalinin NPP has significantly increased, the premises are equipped with modern stationary and mobile fire extinguishing means, all the necessary conditions for personnel safety are in place.