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27 improvements to modernize fuel fabrication lines


The new fuel rod welding process (USA)

Modernization of U.S. fuel manufacturing lines

At the Richland plant, a new vibratory loading system, where low frequency vibration slowly moves fuel pellets into the fuel rods, ensures that pellets are not damaged during the loading process.

The Lynchburg plant is using an improved pellet loading process that pushes pellets into open-ended fuel rods, eliminating the potential for hard loading issues.

At both plants, a new fuel rod welding process has been established using a resistance pressure welding technique that avoids the melting of cladding material and the potential creation of voids within the welded area.