India marks a historic milestone in its nuclear energy journey as the Kalpakkam Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) successfully attains criticality, an essential step in the nation’s ambitious three-stage nuclear power program. This achievement reinforces India’s commitment to sustainable and self-reliant energy.

At the heart of this breakthrough lies the cutting-edge contribution of Kirloskar Brothers Limited (KBL). The company has engineered and supplied Primary and Secondary Heat Transport Pumps, critical components and the only rotating equipment within the reactor system. These pumps represent a remarkable feat of engineering, each weighing approximately 135 tonnes and constructed using exotic materials to withstand extreme operating conditions. Designed to handle liquid sodium at temperatures exceeding 500°C, they exemplify precision, durability and innovation.

KBL stands among a select group of just four companies globally with the capability to design and manufacture such advanced nuclear-grade pumping systems. This achievement underscores the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat and reflects KBL’s century-long legacy of engineering excellence and nation-building.

In addition to these high-performance reactor pumps, KBL has also supplied Concrete Volute Circulating Water Pumps for this nuclear power plant. Developed using advanced seismic and computational fluid dynamics (CFD), these pumps are uniquely designed to integrate seamlessly with the KBL engineered compact intake system, ensuring efficient and reliable water management. Each of these pumps delivers 9500 Litres Per Second of seawater and their reliability has eliminated the need for a stand-by pump. This is the first time in the world that such pumps have been used for circulating water application for a fast breeder nuclear reactor.

Further strengthening the plant’s safety infrastructure, KBL has implemented a comprehensive firefighting system, safeguarding critical operations and enhancing overall plant resilience.

KBL’s association with the nation’s nuclear programme spans over four decades, during which it has consistently delivered critical pumping solutions across key facilities. We are proud that our designed and developed "Make in India" solutions are enabling India’s progress towards self reliance in nuclear infrastructure. This landmark accomplishment would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and all stakeholders involved.

Kirloskar Brothers Limited extends its heartfelt congratulations to BHAVINI, DAE, NPCIL and the entire nation on this defining achievement, one that sets the stage for India’s energy-secure future