Since the early 1980s, Hitachi has been developing and applying modularization technology to domestic nuclear power plant construction, and has achieved great rationalization. Modularization is one of the plant construction techniques which enables us to reduce site labor by pre-assembling components like equipment, pipes, valves and platforms in congested areas and installing them using large capacity cranes for cost reduction, better quality, safety improvement and shortening of construction time.In this paper, Hitachi's modularization technologies are described especially from with respect to their sophisticated design capabilities. The application of 3D-CAD at the detailed layout design stage, concurrent design environment achieved by the computer network, module design quantity control and the management system are described.

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A composite module construction method is to be examined reflecting one of the elements of construction rationalization of a future nuclear plant planned by Hitachi. This concept is based on accomplishments and many successes achieved by Hitachi through application of the modular construction method to nuclear power plant construction over 20 years. The feature of the composite module typically includes a planned civil structure, such as a wall, a floor, and a post, representing modular components. In this way, an increased level of rationalization is expected in the conventional large-scale nuclear plants. Furthermore, the concept aiming at the modularization of all the building parts comprising medium- or small-scale reactors is also to be examined. Additional aims include improved reductions in the construction duration and rationalization through use of the composite module. On the other hand, present circumstances in nuclear plant construction are very pressing because of economic pressures. With this in mind, Hitachi is pursuing additional research into the introduction of drastic construction rationalization, such as the composite module. This concept is one of the keys to successful future plant construction, faced with such a severe situation.

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