Nuclear Polytechnic unveils nuclear power plant prototype at KSTI 2026

Surabaya (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s Nuclear Technology Polytechnic (Poltek Nuklir) unveiled a prototype nuclear power plant at the 2026 Indonesian Science, Technology and Industry Convention (KSTI 2026).

Nahl Dyah Istavara, a member of the team that developed the prototype, said it was intended to introduce the use of nuclear energy through an interactive learning tool.

Speaking at KSTI 2026 at the Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology in Surabaya on Wednesday, Nahl said the prototype was designed to help the public understand how a nuclear power plant works and learn about reactor safety systems, which are often a focus of public concern.

One of the prototype’s features is a double-loop system, comprising two closed circuits. Unlike a coal-fired steam power plant, a nuclear power plant uses heat from a nuclear fission reaction to heat water.

Nahl explained that the double-loop system separates the primary circuit, which is connected to the reactor, from the secondary circuit, which carries steam to the turbine via a steam generator. Keeping the two circuits separate is part of the effort to ensure the plant operates safely.

“This is to prevent radiation from spreading or contamination from entering the secondary system,” she added.

Nahl also said the device was equipped with a microcontroller-based control and monitoring panel. Using software integrated with the panel, visitors can observe simulations of the operation of various reactor components.

The prototype’s developers added that safety was a primary concern. Nuclear technology management follows the principles of safety, security and safeguards (3S), covering operational safety, facility security and oversight of the use of nuclear materials.

“The plan is part of an effort to update educational facilities so that the public can learn about developments in nuclear technology,” Nahl said.

Separately, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Brian Yuliarto said the event originated in President Prabowo Subianto’s idea for a forum to discuss research and technology outcomes.

Brian said the forum also brings together universities, industry and research institutions, with the aim of accelerating cooperation among them in applying research and innovation to national development.

“This will enable research and innovation to have an impact on society,” Brian said.