Nuclear Power Stations

As of October 2015, Nuclear Power makes up ~ 21% of the baseload generating capacity of the UK National Grid. Link to Gridwatch ( Real Time Usage )

All of this generating capacity is based upon Fission. This is because, at present, Fusion cannot be used to generate electricity commercially. 

The above diagram shows the basic sections of a modern Fission Power Station.

This power station works exactly the same way as any other thermal power station, by heating water to make steam, which drives a turbine and generator. 

The only difference is that the water cannot be heated directly, without the water itself becoming radioactive, so a heat exchanger must be used.

The video below shows a explanation of the function of each part of a Nuclear power station. 

There are four main sections to the core of a Nuclear reactor :-

• Radiation Shielding - The core is contained within a pressure vessel and surrounded by layers of lead and concrete to prevent the release of Radiation. 

• Fuel Rods - Long rods of very pure Uranium-235, the source of the Nuclear Fission.

• Graphite Moderator - Graphite is  used to slow down the Neutrons, increasing the efficiency of the reactor. 

• Control Rods - Made of Boron, the rods absorb Neutrons and by changing the depth of the control rods in the Reactor, the Energy output is controlled. In case of emergency, the rods can be dropped fully into the reactor, stopping the reaction completely. 

Fusion Power Stations

Fusion power stations are currently in development, but at present, there is no commercially viable Fusion reactor.

This is because, in order to cause Nuclear fusion to occur, we must recreate the temperature and pressure only found in the heart of a star. 

The video below shows the basic design and function of a prototype Fusion reactor.