Naval reactors are tuned to the space and power demands of ships rather than built to match the output of large civilian plants. A pressurized-water reactor keeps radioactive primary coolant under pressure in a closed loop, transferring heat to a separate water circuit that produces steam. The steam then drives turbines for generators or propulsion before being condensed and reused. This separation lets the plant control the reaction while isolating radioactive material from the rest of the ship.
Chapter · 18:29-20:45
Why pressurized-water reactors dominate at sea
A closed-loop pressurized-water system keeps radioactive primary coolant separate while transferring heat to the steam circuit used for power and propulsion.