Optimisation of hot isostatic pressing bonded SS/SS joints conditions for ITER blanket shield

Abstract

In the engineering design activity of international thermonuclear experimental reactor (ITER), stainless steels are being considered as candidates materials for several module type structures. Hot isostatic pressing (HIP) technique is expected for the fabrication of these modules. Stainless steel powders are simultaneously consolidated as mono-material block or/and joined in bi-material module.This paper reviews the manufacturing stages, non-destructive examination and the developments of the HIP bonded joints of 316L SS (powder and solid) for application to the ITER shield blanket.It is well known that the powder surface oxidation negatively influences the impact toughness of raw material and joints consolidated by this way. In order to get acceptable mechanical properties of materials, a study on the effect of reducing the powder oxygen content has been launched. To evaluate susceptibility to the oxygen content of HIPed joint specimens, tensile and toughness tests have been performed.From this study, optimal conditions of HIP were fitted and the influence of oxygen was mastered to obtain good mechanical properties of the consolidated powder material as well as for HIPed junction.