Nuclear technology is poised to play a more prominent role in the global landscape as a stable, low-carbon energy source and an essential contributor to healthcare advancements. The resurgence of nuclear power as a solution for climate goals and energy security is mirrored in its growing significance within the medical field. Oxford Engineering is leading the way in applying nuclear technologies to healthcare, mainly through its work in pharmaceutical industries and medical diagnostics.

The intersection of nuclear technology and healthcare is generating exciting breakthroughs. As the demand for advanced medical diagnostics and treatments continues to soar, more radioactive materials will be used, which must be transported and contained securely. For instance, according to the World Health Organization, radiation therapy is used in nearly 50% of cancer patients globally. This is where Oxford Engineering manufactures state-of-the-art containment vessels that safely store and transport these critical materials.

With more than half a century of experience in high-tech manufacturing, Oxford Engineering has established itself as a leader in the medical and nuclear sectors. The containment vessels they manufacture are critical for ensuring the safety of transporting radioactive materials, allowing for the safe use of nuclear technology in hospitals and research facilities worldwide. Their products are held to the highest standards, as evidenced by their certifications and approvals from the European regulatory bodies and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

“We had the pleasure of hosting our customer’s audit by the NRC, who commented on the quality of manufacture and welding as being the best they have seen,” says Chairman Karim Sekkat, highlighting the firm’s commitment to excellence in the health space.

As the demand for advanced medical treatments continues to grow, the use of nuclear technology in healthcare is expected to follow. The global radiopharmaceuticals market, valued at over $5 billion in 2022, is projected to reach nearly 14 billion dollars by 2032, driven by the increasing prevalence of cancer and neurological diseases. This boom underscores the critical role companies like Oxford Engineering will play in the coming years.

While nuclear’s role in healthcare is undeniable, its momentum in the energy sector is equally significant. With a global push to transition away from fossil fuels and toward greener energy sources, nuclear power is regaining attention as a critical solution for stable, reliable, and low-carbon electricity. Unlike intermittent wind or solar, which depend on environmental conditions, nuclear energy can deliver electricity consistently, day or night.

Nuclear is an excellent addition to other renewable sources like wind and solar. More than 20 countries have committed to increasing their nuclear capacity by 2050, with many aiming to triple their atomic output. However, this growth in nuclear energy is not without challenges, such as high upfront costs, long construction timelines, and decommissioning. Karim further highlights:

“Germany’s retreat from nuclear power following the Fukushima disaster serves as a cautionary tale for other nations considering expanding their nuclear capacity.”

Despite these hurdles, nuclear technology remains a compelling part of the solution to global energy needs. Small modular reactors and advanced reactors, which are smaller, more flexible, and easier to integrate into existing energy grids, are making nuclear energy more scalable and accessible than ever before. These technological advancements could lead to a new era for nuclear power, providing a stable, carbon-free source of electricity to complement the rise of renewables.

Oxford Engineering’s pharmaceutical and medical industry expertise is well aligned with the global nuclear movement. Their focus on manufacturing containment vessels is crucial to the safe and efficient movement of radioactive materials used in treatments such as radiation therapy, where precision is paramount. “There is no other option in healthcare,” says Karim.

“We have far better cancer treatments and imaging thanks to these advancements. The new x-ray systems, for example, now operate at a fraction of the radiation exposure compared to older models.”

As the medical industry evolves, safety concerns around nuclear technology persist, but Oxford Engineering’s robust certifications and commitment to quality ensure that it remains a trusted leader in the sector. Their efforts follow strategic partnerships with their customers to ensure the highest standards.

Their innovative supply chain integration and lean management approach have garnered them numerous awards and multi-million-pound strategic relationships globally.

Whether through innovative containment solutions for radioactive materials or their leadership in advancing nuclear medicine, this manufacturing company is at the forefront of a global movement.

In the words of Karim Sekkat, “We are proud to be part of this journey.” With nuclear energy poised to shape the future of healthcare and energy, the time is ripe for innovative companies to seize the moment. Oxford Engineering is doing just that – leading the way in creating a safer, healthier world powered by nuclear technology.