General Atomics and Framatome Join Forces on Nuclear Reactor Channel Boxes
Project will develop accident-tolerant core components using GA’s SiGA silicon-carbide composite
San Diego, February 20 – General Atomics (GA) and Framatome are working together to develop nuclear reactor channel boxes fabricated from GA’s SiGA™ silicon-carbide composite. Channel boxes are used in boiling light-water reactors (BWRs), which represent one-third of the U.S. reactor fleet.
The goal is to deliver advanced BWR core components offering longer lifetimes, higher performance, and improved economics.
The channel box in a BWR surrounds the fuel rods and fuel assemblies for structural stability and to direct water over the fuel rods to ensure efficient cooling and heat transfer. Current channel boxes are made from a metal alloy known as Zircaloy. This is the same material used for the tubes that hold fuel pellets, and thus suffers similar embrittlement, lifetime, and strength limitations during operation and off-normal events, such as those that occurred during the accident at Fukushima.
GA originally developed SiGA for its innovative Energy Multiplier Module (EM2) advanced reactor design, though the technology has broad applications for a variety of current reactors and future advanced reactor concepts.
SiGA is a ceramic material reinforced with flexible silicon carbide (SiC) fibers, in much the same way that steel rebar reinforces concrete. This creates an extraordinarily hard and durable material that can withstand the harshest reactor conditions.
SiGA channel boxes could offer improved economic benefits and longer lifetimes due to their enhanced resistance to irradiation, superior high-temperature performance, and improved safety margin.
“Efforts to increase nuclear plant economics must look at more than just the fuel rods,” said GA Vice President of Nuclear Technology and Materials Christina Back. “This project begins the process of developing a fully robust core by deploying modern materials for critical in-core components.”
Framatome is one of the world’s leading suppliers of BWR fuel assemblies and has a detailed understanding of channel-box design, performance requirements, and market. GA brings to the team established expertise and advanced facilities for the fabrication and testing of silicon-carbide composite material.
“Framatome and General Atomics will work together to research innovations and technologies that build on our expertise and advance today’s nuclear fuel designs,” said Lionel Gaiffe, senior executive vice president, Fuel Business Unit at Framatome. “This relationship is just one example of our commitment to operational excellence and collaboration with industry experts to support the continued operation of the nuclear plants that produce efficient, low-carbon electricity.”
Phase 1 of the GA-Framatome cooperation will focus on the feasibility of using silicon carbide in channel-box applications through thermo-mechanical and corrosion testing. The long-term goal is to demonstrate the irradiation of a full-length channel box in support of licensing and commercialization.
“We are excited about the opportunity to work with Framatome and explore new applications for SiGA,” said GA Energy Group Senior Vice President Jeff Quintenz. “We look forward bringing this important product to market, helping improve the performance and economics of reactors around the world.”
Funding for the collaboration comes to General Atomics through Framatome via the Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Energy Accident Tolerant Fuel Program.
About General Atomics: General Atomics pioneers technologies with the potential to change the world. Since the dawn of the atomic age, GA’s innovations have advanced the state of the art across the full spectrum of science and technology – from nuclear energy and defense to medicine and high-performance computing. Behind a talented global team of scientists, engineers, and professionals, GA delivers safe, sustainable, and economical solutions to meet growing global demands.
For more information contact:
Zabrina Johal
858-455-4004
Zabrina.Johal@ga.com