Ultrasonic and resistance welding of ZR supports to ZR fuel element cladding

摘要

Tube-tube type fuel elements require support devices to maintain concentricity both between the element components and between element and process tube. A variety of support devices have been conceived. all require welding of a tab or other attachment device to the Zircaloy clad. Ultrasonic and resistance welding were evaluated for this application. Investigation showed ultrasonic welding to be not acceptable in its present state. Resistance welding proved satisfactory. This paper will briefly cover the work done in evaluating the two methods of attachment.