Inside OPAL’s 2024 shutdown: cold neutron source and protection system replacement
Speaker: Jason Chakovski, Operations Manager, ANSTO OPAL Nuclear Research Reactor
6.00 pm — 7.30 pm AEST, Wednesday 30 July 2025.
Hosted by Nuclear Engineering Panel of Engineers Australia Sydney Branch
Online and in-person at Engineers Australia Sydney Office Mezzanine Floor, 44 Market Street, Sydney New South Wales, 2000.
Cost: EA Members: Free,
ANA Members free (email ANA@nuclearaustralia.org.au to request code for ANA members).
Otherwise: $30.00
To register go to https://www.engineersaustralia.org.au/event/2022/05/inside-opals-2024-shutdown-cold-neutron-source-and-protection-system-replacement
Abstract
This presentation explores the management of a major planned shutdown of ANSTO’s OPAL Reactor in 2024, highlighting the replacement of two critical systems: the Cold Neutron Source and the First Reactor Protection System.
Drawing on lessons learnt throughout the process, it covers the planning, design assessments, and safety-focused implementation strategies involved. Australia’s only research reactor, OPAL, was shut down after 15 full power years to upgrade these essential components.
The Cold Neutron Source, a thin-walled aluminium-magnesium alloy chamber filled with 20 litres of liquid deuterium at 20 K, had reached the end of its operational life.
Together with the First Reactor Protection System upgrade, the project marked a significant milestone in the reactor’s continued safe and effective operation.
The session will be presented by the OPAL Reactor Operations Manager, who will provide firsthand insight into the complexities and achievements of this critical upgrade.
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About Jason Chakovski
Jason Chakovski joined ANSTO in 2002 following completion of a degree in Electrical Engineering at the University of NSW. Having been involved in operations engineering at the HIFAR Reactor early in his career, he moved on to work on the design, construction, engineering, operations planning, commissioning and early operation of the OPAL Reactor, including achieving first criticality in 2006 as the duty Shift Manager. From 2010, he has been the Operations Manager for the OPAL Reactor.