Hybrid Process Targets Nuclear Manufacturing Bottlenecks

In partnership with A.J. Tuck Company, scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a new manufacturing approach that could simplify production of critical components for advanced nuclear reactors and other energy and defense applications. The method combines 3D printing and electroforming to produce complex, leak-free hot isostatic pressing (HIP) cans, sealed containers used to form high-performance metal parts from powder materials under high heat and pressure. This approach for making HIP cans could speed up production and reduce reliance on constrained supply chains.