Session: MF-04-01 European Programs in Structural Integrity-NUCOBAM Project

Paper Number: 123236

123236 - Performance Assessment of Additive Manufacturing Components for an Ex-Core Nuclear User : Valve Component – Nucobam Project 

In recent years, the nuclear industry has explored the potential of additive manufacturing (AM) to create components for nuclear power plants (NPP’s). Roadmaps have been developed within this sector, outlining the steps required to enable the use of AM components’ production. In this context, several projects have been initiated, including the European funded project  NUCOBAM. The overarching objectives of the NUCOBAM project (Nuclear Components based on Additive Manufacturing) is to tackle the technical challenges associated with manufacturing NPP’s components using AM.

One of the key elements within the NUCOBAM project involves the performance assessment of an ex-core component, specifically a valve. The valve body has been fabricated using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) technique, employing steel grade 316L powders. This assessment will be incorporated into a methodology for qualifying components produced trough AM that adhere to nuclear codes and standards. This paper will offer a detailed presentation of the study related to additive manufacturing of the valve body and the qualification methods for this component, including non-destructive testing, static testing, functional testing and concluded by a burst test. Each test performed on the valve body follows the industrial qualification conditions, all of which are outlined in the final procedures developed within the NUCOBAM project.

Presenting Author: Roxane Misler Tractebel Engie

Presenting Author Biography: Roxane Misler holds an engineering degree with the focus on material science. Roxane works since 2022 at Tractebel as quality surveillance inspector in the mechanical department for the nuclear industry. In this domain Roxane conducts quality surveillance inspections on nuclear classified equipment destined for repair replacement activities and spent fuel storage casks. Roxane also holds the degree of International Welding Engineer (IWE). As a welding engineer Roxane is consulted for the technical analysis of welding procedure specifications / welder & operator certifications for which compliance with client specifications and code requirements is to be ensured. Furthermore, Roxane has a detailed knowledge of additive manufacturing technologies, and her expertise is being sought for the European NUCOBAM project. She leads the work package focused on evaluating the performance of components, specifically valves. Roxane frequently presents the NUCOBAM project at conferences across Europe.

Authors:

Roxane Misler Tractebel Engie
Rebeca Hernandez CIEMAT
Antonio Fernandez-Viña CIEMAT
Steve Nardone ENGIE Laborelec
Benjamin Hary ENGIE Laborelec
Norman Bertelle EDF Lab Les Renardières