Sheffield-based Independent Forgings and Alloys (IFA) have signed a memorandum of understanding with AREVA for the supply of forged components for the new UK projects on the EPR nuclear reactors. The signing took place in Westminster, London 13th December in the presence of Philippe Knoche, Chief Operating Officer, AREVA, Humphrey Cadoux-Hudson, Managing Director, Nuclear new Build EDF Energy and UK Business Minister, Lord Marland.
The agreements relate to the two ERPTM reactors planned by EDF Energy at Hinkley Point for which a site licence was granted last month by the UK Government. The collaboration could also extend to other reactors planned for UK build. The Sheffield company were one of 25 key suppliers who are pre-qualified by AREVA for selection on the UK new Nuclear new build programme. With agreements already announced with Rolls Royce, the projects could be worth over GBP 400M to British manufacturers.
Managing Director Andy McGuinness who attended the ceremony is optimistic about the future prospects. “Specialist forgings will be a key requirement to the nuclear industry supply chain and represents an important area for IFA to grow their business.”
