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ZIRCALOY WELDING TECHNIQUES DEVELOPED FOR PLUTONIUM RECYCLE PROGRAM UO$sub 2$ FUEL ELEMENT FABRICATION

Journal Article · · Welding J. (N.Y.)
OSTI ID:4090606
Metal-joining applications used to fabricate the UO/sub 2/ elements for the first Plutonium Recycle Test Reactor (PRTR) loading are discussed. Zircaloy- 2, the only cladding material used in fabrication of these initial fuel elements, was readily welded with high reliability by resistance and arc welding processes. The major welding problem, gas absorption at elevated temperatures, was overcome by welding in a carefully controlled inert atmosphere or by completing the weld in a few milliseconds. Projection, seam, and magneticforce butt welding processes were also used. A total of 259 individual welds was required to fabricate a 19-rod cluster fuel element. (M.C.G.)
Research Organization:
General Electric Co., Richland, Wash.
NSA Number:
NSA-15-009392
OSTI ID:
4090606
Journal Information:
Welding J. (N.Y.), Journal Name: Welding J. (N.Y.) Vol. Vol: 40
Country of Publication:
Country unknown/Code not available
Language:
English