Improved Techniques for Appendage Attachment to PHWR Fuel Elements

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R.N. Jaya Raj
B. Laxminarayana
P.S.A. Narayanan
U.C. Gupta
B.P. Varma
K.K. Sinha

Abstract

Nuclear Fuel Complex, India switched-over to split-wart type PHWR fuel bundles in mid-80s. Since then over 60,000 bundles of this type have been fabricated for Indian PHWRs. After considering various technical aspects, resistance welding was chosen for appendage attachment to the fuel elements. The paper describes experiences in scaling up of the technique to industrial production of PHWR fuel bundles, design and development of special-purpose equipment for this purpose, and the QA procedures employed for regular production. It also deals with appendage welding of 37 Element fuel bundles and improvements planned in the appendage welding process.

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