Samsung Heavy Industries has received Approval in Principle from ABS for its floating small modular reactor (FSMR) platform design. This certification validates the conceptual design's feasibility and adherence to relevant standards.

Platform Design and Key Features

The FSMR platform is configured to carry two Smart 100 SMRs, an integrated reactor design developed by the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) which received Standard Design Approval in September 2024. A key benefit of the platform is its functional grouping of the reactor and power-generation systems. This design allows the platform to host a wide range of SMR types by modifying only the reactor-designated compartment, rather than the entire platform.

Safety and Construction Advantages

The design enhances safety by modularising the reactor and safety systems within a single containment vessel. Furthermore, this approach allows an SMR to be installed and tested onshore prior to offshore installation, which is expected to significantly speed up construction schedules.

Development Roles and Market Outlook

During the certification process, Samsung was responsible for integrating the SMRs with the floating structure, designing the nuclear power generation facilities, and developing a multi-barrier reactor containment system. KAERI adapted its land-based Smart SMR for offshore applications. Company representatives stated the ABS certification is an important milestone for opening the offshore nuclear power market and demonstrates Korea's innovative nuclear technology strength, with aims to accelerate development to position the country as a global leader in the industry.