NuCube begins 250 kW tests for pump-free nuclear microreactor in Utah

NuCube Energy is running non-nuclear trials at the San Rafael Energy Lab in Utah, using a 250 kW induction furnace to mimic conditions inside its NuSun microreactor. The solid-state design relies on sealed heat pipes instead of pumps and targets industrial heat above 900°C for hydrogen and chemical production.

• Tests use a 250 kW induction furnace with no radioactive fuel
• NuSun is cooled by sealed heat pipes, with no pumps or pressure vessels
• Heat pipes were tested above 900°C with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories
• Targets include hydrogen, chemicals and supercritical CO2 Brayton turbines