Researchers run first tests of unique system for welding highly irradiated metal alloys
(WorldNews Environment)

OAK RIDGE, Tenn., Feb. 8, 2018-Scientists of the Department of Energy`s Light Water Reactor Sustainability Program (LWRS) and partners from the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) have conducted the first weld tests to repair highly irradiated materials at DOE`s Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The welding system, designed and installed in a hot cell at ORNL`s Radiochemical Engineering Development Center, safely encloses equipment for laser and friction-stir welding. It will allow researchers to advance welding technologies for repair of irradiated materials by developing processing conditions and evaluating post-weld materials properties. As nuclear power plants age, materials that have...