Effect of Fabrication Variables on the Load-Relaxation Behavior of Unirradiated Zircaloy Sheet

摘要

Load-relaxation tests were performed on Zircaloy-2 and Zircaloy-4 sheets with varied textures and microstructures. The experimental data in the form of logarithmic stress vs logarithmic strain-rate curves showed characteristics which can be used to identify the deformation mechanisms involved. The low flow stress and absence of grain-boundary sliding found in the 0 exp 0 texture Zircaloy-4 make it potentially useful as a material for fuel-element cladding. 12 figures. (ERA citation 08:010195)