The first parts printed on a 3D printer are installed at a nuclear power plant in the United States

The Browns Ferry nuclear power plant in Alabama is the first nuclear power plant in the United States that uses 3D – printed parts. These are special brackets that will remain there for six years. The supplier of the components is the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory said in a press release that it became the first supplier of 3D-printed parts that were installed at a nuclear power plant located in the United States. These elements are four special supports printed on a 3D printer, which were installed at the NPP should serve there for at least 6 years. The technology itself was designed to extend the life of the power plant and was developed in collaboration with Framatome, a supplier of fuel for a nuclear power plant.

“The introduction of 3D-printed components in reactors is a big milestone. This demonstrates the ability to supply qualified components in a strictly regulated environment. This program combines basic and applied science and technology to provide real-world solutions that demonstrate how advanced manufacturing can transform reactor technology and components, ” said Ben Betzler, ORNL Program Director.