The High Flux Australian Reactor (HIFAR) was the first nuclear reactor in Australia. It remained so until its replacement, the Open Pool Australian Lightwater (OPAL) reactor, was commissioned in 2007.
HIFAR is a milestone in Australia's scientific and technological progress.
Following the awarding of a £935,500 contract with UK-based Head Wrightson Processes Ltd in July 1955, construction commenced in February 1956 at the Australian Atomic Energy Commission's research establishment at Lucas Heights, Sydney, and was completed later the following year.
The reactor achieved criticality on Australia Day, 1958 and was set in operation by Prime...Read More
The High Flux Australian Reactor (HIFAR) was the first nuclear reactor in Australia. It remained so until its replacement, the Open Pool Australian Lightwater (OPAL) reactor, was commissioned in 2007.
HIFAR is a milestone in Australia's scientific and technological progress.
Following the awarding of a £935,500 contract with UK-based Head Wrightson Processes Ltd in July 1955, construction commenced in February 1956 at the Australian Atomic Energy Commission's research establishment at Lucas Heights, Sydney, and was completed later the following year.
The reactor achieved criticality on Australia Day, 1958 and was set in operation by Prime Minister R G Menzies on April 18.
After two years of reactor physics measurements, HIFAR began full operations on October 20, 1960.
Since then, HIFAR has provided training for several generations of nuclear engineers and scientists and has enabled Australia to pioneer many of the applications of nuclear science and technology to industry, medicine and education. Of particular note is the nationwide distribution of radiopharmaceuticals for nuclear medicine, the development of the fission product technetium generator and the application of neutron and gamma-based applications to industry.
The HIFAR Research Reactor produced radioisotopes for medicine, industry and research. Provision of irradiation facilities, including neutron transmutation doping of high-purity silicon for use in the semiconductor industry.
The HIFAR Research Reactor is of National significance, historically and technically, and has been of high social benefit to Australia. It has underpinned Australia's achievements in nuclear science and technology.
HIFAR is a testament to the capabilities of its staff and operators, who upgraded the reactor to meet developing world practices and changed regulatory practices. As a result, HIFAR achieved over 47 years of successful and safe operation.
HIFAR supported Australia's commitment to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) through the provision of training facilities, particularly to scientists in the Asia/Pacific region;
Community education is available through a formal program of site tours, open days and related initiatives.
Source - ANSTO
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