A4W reactor: Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

An A4W reactor is a type of nuclear reactor in use aboard the United States Navy's Nimitz-class supercarriers.

The A4W reactor is the nuclear fission pressurized water reactor (PWR) design used in powering U. S. Navy aircraft carriers. It is a joint design between Bettis Laboratory and General Electric Knolls Atomic Power Lab (KAPL) Division, with BAPL as prime contractor.

Meaning of the Name

The A4W reactor is the 4th nuclear fission reactor design for use in powering U. S. Navy aircraft carriers by a division of the Westinghouse Electric Corporation. The A stands for aircraft carrier, 4 for 4th reactor design, and W for Westinghouse.