Framatome opens SPEC 200 manufacturing facility in Lynchburg, Virginia

Oct. 28, 2019 – Framatome opened the new SPEC 200 manufacturing facility at its Operational Center of Excellence in Lynchburg, Virginia, completing the move of the factory from China to the U.S. The ribbon-cutting took place in September, marking the full integration of the SPEC 200 product line into Framatome’s solutions portfolio. Framatome acquired the SPEC 200 technology and experts from Schneider Electric in 2018. The factory recently completed a successful Nuclear Procurement Issues Corporation (NUPIC) Audit, earning a recommendation for approval without restriction for supply of SPEC 200.

“Acquiring this proven instrumentation and control (I&C) ‘workhorse’ platform, including all the intellectual property, and moving the manufacturing to Lynchburg mean our customers can source their SPEC 200 modules from a nuclear-focused original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in the U.S.,” said Frédéric Lelièvre, senior executive vice president in charge of Sales, Regional Platforms and I&C at Framatome. “Our customers will realize improved technical support and quicker turnaround times on the manufacturing of their new modules as well as evaluation and repair services.”

SPEC 200 is an analog I&C system that serves as part of the central nervous system of a nuclear power plant. It has historically been installed in auxiliary safety systems (class 1E) and balance-of-plant applications, enabling nuclear plant operators to monitor and control plant operations while making the plant safer, more efficient and compliant with strict licensing requirements.

Framatome has begun partnering with utility customers around the world to develop SPEC 200 module refresh strategies to reduce risk in the near term as they position their plants for eventual digital I&C upgrades. Customers can now resume sourcing their SPEC 200 modules from the U.S.-based OEM.

About Framatome
Framatome is an international leader in nuclear energy recognized for its innovative solutions and value added technologies for the global nuclear fleet. With worldwide expertise and a proven track record for reliability and performance, the company designs, services and installs components, fuel, and instrumentation and control systems for nuclear power plants. Its more than 14,000 employees work every day to help Framatome’s customers supply ever cleaner, safer and more economical low-carbon energy. Visit us at: www.framatome.com, and follow us on Twitter: @Framatome_ and LinkedIn: Framatome. Framatome is owned by the EDF Group (75.5%), Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI – 19.5%) and Assystem (5%).