Laser coating technique could transform nuclear fuel rod manufacturing
Researchers have perfected a micro-scale laser coating process that deposits ultra-thin, defect-free protective layers on nuclear fuel rods with minimal heat damage. The breakthrough could accelerate deployment of advanced nuclear fuels while reducing manufacturing costs and waste—critical for the nuclear industry's expansion plans.
Originaltitel: Laser Micro-Wire Cladding: From Fundamental Mechanisms to Application
<p>Laser cladding using thin wires (<0.8 mm) presents significant potential for applications requiring high precision and minimal heat input, such as coatings for nuclear fuel rods. This work investigates Laser Micro-Wire Cladding (LMWC) using a 200 µm wire, showing the transition from fundamental process studies on single tracks and flat substrates to the application of FeCrAl coatings on 15-15Ti and 316L tubes relevant to nuclear fuel rods. High-resolution high-speed imaging (HSI) experiments revealed unique melt transfer characteristics, including a stable melt bridge and drop deposition mode. The mechanisms governing these modes were analysed. A novel wire-bending technique was developed to enhance process stability, crucial for consistent deposition. This understanding facilitated the successful deposition of thin (135 µm), low-dilution (< 7%), defect-free clad layers onto thin (500 µm) substrates. Characterization indicates that the coatings meet demanding requirements for nuclear applications.</p>