The National Nuclear Security Administration authorized the startup of the Calciner Project at the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, on July 15, 2026. The authorization marks the second new nuclear operations process startup at the site in the past year, following the electrorefining project, which was the first new nuclear operation startup at Y-12 in approximately 20 years.
What it means
The calciner system processes uranium-bearing solutions from pipes and other vessels into a stable, solid form for safe, efficient storage. According to NNSA Administrator Brandon Williams, achieving startup authorization is an important step for the overall safety, security, and long-term viability of uranium operations for the nation. Consolidated Nuclear Security President and CEO Todd Ailes said converting uranium solutions with the calciner is safer and more efficient.
The system enables the decontamination and shutdown of a World War II-era production building at Y-12. This action supports the site’s operational strategy to decrease safety risks by reducing uranium inventories in process facilities. The broader strategy aims to sustain existing operations through improved technologies and process relocation where feasible, extend the operational life of critical buildings, and transition major uranium operations to the Uranium Processing Facility. Consolidated Nuclear Security manages and operates Y-12 for NNSA.
Key facts
- NNSA authorized startup of Calciner Project at Y-12 National Security Complex on July 15, 2026
- Calciner processes uranium-bearing solutions into stable, solid form for storage
- System enables decontamination and shutdown of a WWII-era production building
- New process replaces a less efficient method with greater hazards
- Second authorized nuclear operations process startup at Y-12 in the past year
- Electrorefining was the first authorized startup in the past year
- First new nuclear operation startup at the site in approximately 20 years
- Consolidated Nuclear Security manages and operates Y-12 for NNSA
Source: National Nuclear Security Administration news release (energy.gov)