Westinghouse Innovates with 3D Printed Nozzles for Enhanced Nuclear Reactor Safety and Efficiency
Max Willett
Westinghouse Electric Company has made significant advancements in nuclear reactor technology by using additive manufacturing to create 3D printed bottom nozzles for fuel assemblies. These nozzles, integrated into test assemblies at Alabama Power’s Joseph M. Farley Nuclear Plant, significantly improve debris resistance from 65% to 96%. This advancement addresses debris fretting, a major cause of leaks in Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) fuel assemblies, by enhancing the design flexibility and reducing the diameter of debris entering the reactor.
Debris fretting occurs when debris in the reactor wears on the cladding of fuel rods, leading to leaks and inefficiencies. The use of 3D printing allows for intricate designs that can more effectively filter out debris, thus extending the lifespan and safety of nuclear fuel. The newly produced nozzles demonstrated a 30% improvement in debris resistance during testing, marking a substantial enhancement in fuel assembly performance.
Pete Sena, President of Southern Nuclear, highlighted that the company has been at the forefront of developing and implementing technologies to improve fuel resiliency over the past decade. This innovation is crucial for maintaining the robustness of the nuclear power fleet, which is a key component of the United States’ clean energy supply. By making nuclear fuel more durable, Westinghouse is contributing to the long-term reliability and safety of carbon-free nuclear power.
Westinghouse’s commitment to additive manufacturing in the nuclear sector is well-established, with milestones including the first material irradiation study of 3D printed components in 2015 and the first installation of a safety-related 3D printed component in 2020. This latest development underscores Westinghouse’s role as a leader in advancing nuclear and clean energy technologies, demonstrating their ongoing dedication to innovation and safety in the field.
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