Framatome, a French nuclear reactor enterprise, is investing in a brand new additive manufacturing middle at its web site in Romans-sur-Isère (France). The commercial facility, the one one in all its sort in Europe, will use metallic 3D printing to provide mechanical elements for the nuclear and protection sectors. It can additionally supply analysis and growth capabilities, course of qualification, and coaching.
The manufacturing applied sciences deployed embrace wire-arc additive manufacturing and laser powder mattress fusion. These will allow the manufacturing of high-quality elements from just a few kilograms to a number of tens of tons, decreasing manufacturing prices and lead occasions whereas bettering gear efficiency. These processes additionally considerably decrease the environmental affect by optimizing using sources.
“This new middle displays Framatome’s dedication to completely leveraging revolutionary applied sciences to reinforce its efficiency and that of its clients,” mentioned Jean-Bernard Ville, Senior Govt Vice President of the Tasks and Element Manufacturing Enterprise Unit at Framatome. “Additive manufacturing strengthens the sovereignty and competitiveness of strategic sectors in France. Framatome has made it a significant pillar of its operations, aiming to enhance safety of provide and foster innovation within the design of nuclear elements.”
Over the previous 15 years, Framatome has developed distinctive experience in AM for the nuclear trade, with a number of elements already applied in working reactors.
