Key Features of Design, Manufacturing and Implementation of Laboratory and Industrial Equipment for Mixed Uranium – Plutonium Oxide and Nitride Fuel Pellets Fabrication in Russia

Yu.V. Chamovskikh, P.A. Shkurin,  N.G. Sergeev (SverdNIIkhimmash), A.E. Glushenkov , A.V. Davydov (VNIINM), A.L. Denisov, S.V. Pavlov, V.P. Smirnov (Sosny R&D Company),   F. Renard , V. Reynaud (CHAMPALLE, France) 

International Conference on Fast Reactors and Related Fuel Cycles: Next Generation Nuclear Systems for Sustainable Development FR-17,  Yekaterinburg, 26–29 June 2017

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The paper describes the author’s experience in design, manufacturing and implementing equipment for Mixed Uranium – Plutonium Oxide and Nitride fuel pellet fabrication in Russia. The key features of mixed uranium-plutonium oxide and nitride powders are described, as well as their influence on main process (furnaces, presses) and auxiliary (gloveboxes) equipment design. Technical solutions for working with low fluidity powders, conveyance systems for boats prone to deformation, gas separation systems, furnace insulation material choice, as well as rules and regulations applicable for this kind of equipment are discussed.