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Rate of Alloying of Uranium Alloys with Stainless Steel (Part I. 1800 to 2300 °F)

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/4180797· OSTI ID:4180797
 [1]
  1. North American Aviation, Inc., Canoga Park, CA (United States). Atomics International Div.

The rate of alloying between Type 304 stainless steel and metal fuels was investigated at 1800 to 2300 °F. The alloying times were determined by experimental couples in vacuum and by short fuel elements with a sodium or NaK bond between the fuel and the cladding. The fuels included unalloyed uranium, uranlum-molyhdenum alloys, and a Th-7.6 wt.% U alloy. Within the stated temperature range, unalloyed uranium alloys rapidly with the stainless steel, U-10 Mo somewhat slower, and Th-7.6 U the slowest of the fuels tested. The presence of a thin oxide film on the surface of a U-10 Mo fuel wafer substantially lengthens the time required to form the low-melting iron-uranium eutectic, whereas this effect is minor with unalloyed uranium.

Research Organization:
North American Aviation, Inc., Canoga Park, CA (United States). Atomics International Div.
Sponsoring Organization:
US Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)
DOE Contract Number:
AT(11-1)-GEN-8
NSA Number:
NSA-14-016948
OSTI ID:
4180797
Report Number(s):
NAA-SR--3278
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English