Government sources report that Rosatom has developed a cutting system using a diamond wire tailored for the Russian market. The equipment is designed for industrial dismantling and the decommissioning of facilities that handle nuclear and radiation hazards, offering a focused solution for high-risk environments.
Rosatom emphasizes that producing the diamond rope machine within Russia would lessen reliance on imported counterparts. This approach aims to secure access not only to the machine itself but also to spare parts, ongoing maintenance, and diagnostic services for customers across the market.
Eduard Nikitin, who leads nuclear hazardous waste disposal and radioactive waste management at TVEL JSC, notes that the prototype’s development and production progressed in roughly six months. Currently, the first of three samples has been completed and is undergoing durability testing, signaling a concrete step toward broader validation.
The plan includes testing equipment exposed to radiation, conducting seasonal winter trials, and advancing toward mass production of diamond wire saws while adapting to the specific needs of clients. Russian-made diamond wire saws are positioned as an affordable and dependable alternative to foreign wire saws that have exited the market, addressing a gap in availability and cost efficiency.
The diamond rope machine emerged from Rosatom’s research and development initiatives led by TVEL Fuel Company, which serves as the integrator of Russia’s nuclear industry in decommissioning projects. This collaboration highlights the country’s strategy to consolidate capabilities in critical decommissioning operations and to leverage domestic innovations for public safety and industrial continuity.
Experts describe the main technological edge of diamond wire saws as their ability to efficiently cut through large areas of steel and reinforced concrete structures of varied shapes. Electric drives and a pneumatic tensioning system contribute to longer service life, simpler maintenance, and higher productivity when compared with hydraulic machines, offering practical benefits for demanding tasks and long-duration projects.
The machine’s design includes programmable electronics with expanded functionality for operators. Customizable to match specific tasks and dimensions, the saws can be outfitted with specialized accessories and modules. A clear demonstration of its potential is a concrete slab reinforced with metal pipes being cut in about ten minutes, illustrating how such equipment could accelerate project timelines and reduce overall downtime.
Industry observers note that the strategic focus on domestic production aligns with broader objectives to enhance energy security and reduce dependence on external suppliers. This approach also aims to stimulate regional procurement and aftercare support, translating into more predictable timelines and service availability for clients facing tight schedules and regulatory requirements.
As testing continues, stakeholders will evaluate durability, precision, and operational reliability across varied site conditions. The outcomes will influence decisions about market rollout, client training programs, and the integration of this technology into existing decommissioning workflows. The overarching aim is to deliver a robust, cost-conscious tool capable of meeting the safety demands and logistical realities of nuclear decommissioning projects across the region, with potential implications for future export opportunities and domestic technology development.