EPSRC Reference: |
EP/L504737/1 |
Title: |
Casting copper directly onto a spheroidal graphite (nodular) cast iron for spent fuel storage vessels. |
Principal Investigator: |
Ridgway, Professor K |
Other Investigators: |
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Researcher Co-Investigators: |
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Project Partners: |
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Department: |
Advanced Manufacturing Res Centre Boeing |
Organisation: |
University of Sheffield |
Scheme: |
Technology Programme |
Starts: |
01 April 2013 |
Ends: |
31 March 2015 |
Value (£): |
151,394
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EPSRC Research Topic Classifications: |
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EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications: |
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Related Grants: |
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Panel History: |
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Summary on Grant Application Form |
The aim of the project is to design a more cost effective method of manufacturing storage vessels for the long term storage
of spent nuclear fuel. The vessels will eventually be buried in geological stable areas. The research will examine the
feasibility of casting copper onto a spheroidal graphite (nodular) cast iron either directly or through the use of an
intermediatory material. The resultant technique would provide alternative manufacturing methodologies for the production
of existing copper shrouded final repository spent fuel canisters, providing financial savings over current techniques.
The research will seek to determine whether copper can be melted and cast as an external shroud on DCI whilst
minimising secondary waste. It is intended to undertake feasibility studies, optioneering and initial investigation/testing of
copper coating of DCI utilising a casting process. Data collation, consolidation and gap analysis on current knowledge and
capability will be completed to prioritise research and development effort. Feasibility and technical studies, modelling,
simulation, tests and trials are to be completed, along with process evaluation and development.
Upon successful completion of the project, and application of R&D to manufacturing, a potential metal treatment, melting,
casting facility will directly impact upon the local supply chain providing additional opportunity, for example, Workington port
as a sea hub, Studsvik Metal Recycling Facility for pre treatment, Direct Rail Services for transport and hub provision. This
further establishes the local area as a mature centre for nuclear waste remediation.
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Key Findings |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Potential use in non-academic contexts |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Impacts |
Description |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk |
Summary |
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Date Materialised |
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Sectors submitted by the Researcher |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Project URL: |
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Further Information: |
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Organisation Website: |
http://www.shef.ac.uk |