Three robotic arms 3D print nuclear vessel to boost reactor output

Three robotic arms 3D print nuclear vessel to boost reactor output

The United States is turning to large-scale metal 3D printing to address a manufacturing bottleneck that could affect its nuclear expansion plans. Oak Ridge and Idaho National Laboratories have joined forces to develop wire arc additive manufacturing for industrial pressure vessels. These massive components must withstand extreme pressure, heat, and harsh operating conditions. The technology could give US manufacturers another option as domestic…

National labs collaborate to accelerate qualification of critical nuclear

The United States is turning to robotic metal 3D printing in an effort to solve one of nuclear energy’s most stubborn manufacturing problems: the limited domestic supply of large, high-integrity pressure vessels. Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and Idaho National Laboratory (INL) have announced a collaboration that will combine wire-arc additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence and nuclear materials expertise to produce and qualify th…

National laboratory research collaboration focuses on accelerated qualification of critical nuclear components

The Department of Energy's Oak Ridge and Idaho national laboratories announced a collaboration to expand the domestic supply chain of industrial pressure vessels. Together, the labs will help enable wire arc 3D printing of these large components, which are critical for energy-related industries and capable of reliably withstanding harsh service conditions. The initiative boosts the rapid expansion of U.S. nuclear manufacturing capabilities.