Experimental study on laser cutting process of simulated fast Reactor fuel rods

Area of Science:

• Materials Science and Engineering
• Nuclear Engineering
• Manufacturing Technology

Background:

• Stainless steel fuel rod cladding in fast reactors is difficult to cut using traditional mechanical methods due to ductility, causing tool wear and poor quality.
• Laser cutting presents a non-contact, high-efficiency alternative suitable for radioactive environments in nuclear fuel processing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically investigate the impact of laser cutting parameters on the quality of simulated fast reactor fuel rod cladding.
• To determine optimal laser cutting conditions for stainless steel fuel rods.

Main Methods:

• Investigated the effects of cutting speed, focal position, laser power, and gas pressure on cutting quality.
• Utilized simulated fast reactor fuel rods made of stainless steel for experimentation.

Main Results:

• Optimal cutting achieved at 1 m/min cutting speed, -20 to -25 mm focal position, 7200-9600 W laser power, and 10 MPa gas pressure.
• These parameters yielded the best balance of cutting efficiency, low surface roughness, and minimal slag formation.
• Identified specific parameter ranges for high-quality laser cutting of fuel rod cladding.

Conclusions:

• Laser cutting is a viable and effective technology for processing fast reactor fuel rod cladding.
• The study provides crucial data for optimizing laser cutting processes in nuclear fuel reprocessing and decommissioning.
• Findings contribute to advancing manufacturing techniques in the nuclear industry.