Design of production test IP-490-A-FP evaluation of diffusion bonded fuel elements

Abstract

I&E uranium cores are to be jacketed by Sylcor and Hanford utilizing the ``Solid State Diffusion-Hot Pressure Bonding`` process. Hanford will also jacket cores by the ``Solid State Diffusion`` process, by ``Gas Pressure Bonding`` and ``Hot Die Sizing``. In this process, a layer of nickel is placed between the aluminum and uranium to prevent diffusion of the aluminum into the uranium and furnish a layer of metal capable of limiting diffusion with both the aluminum and uranium. The completed fuel element therefore, consists of a uranium tube, bonded by diffusion to a layer of nickel which, in turn, is bonded to the aluminum can. The bond set up by the ``Solid State Diffusion`` process has excellent strength, ductility, continuity, heat transfer abilities and, based on off-site experience, should withstand the changes which take place during irradiation. The objective of this test are to determine gross dimensional stability and bond quality differences between the Al-Si bonds and solid state diffusion bonds.