Optimization of the EUROFER uniaxial diffusion weld

An overview of the welding technologies of CLAM steels for fusion application

“…Ref. [26] established an optimized method for uniaxial diffusion welding (U-DW) of EUROFER which contained two steps: step one at 20 MPa/40 min/1010 • C and step two at 10 MPa/33 min/1010 • C. The results showed that the use of a two-step U-DW can increase the weld quality by decreasing the DBTT while maintaining good comprehensive properties. These results might be transferable to a HIP process.…”

Mockups of blanket cooling plates manufactured in different diffusion welding setups

“…The first mockup ( Fig. 1) is called compact mockup (CMU) [6,7]. It is similar to a CP with outer dimensions of 68 mm  72 mm  50 mm.…”

“…2, and hereinafter referred to as CP mockup. A former investigation [5,7] revealed a non-homogeneous weld pressure distribution in the different ribs of a CP. This will decrease the weld quality in the outer ribs and may generate leaks from the cooling channel system into the environment.…”

“…The cooling channels are milled into the plates at half depth. As a last step, the weld surface is prepared by a dry milling process [9]. This surface is easier to weld and the DW pressure is reduced.…”

Diffusion weld study for Test Blanket Module fabrication

“…The necessary welding techniques may be divided into two groups: diffusion or solid phase welding [2,[5][6][7][8], and fusion welding (electron beam, laser beam, hybrid MIG/laser [9][10][11]), whereas the first is either performed in a hot isostatic press (HIP) or in a uniaxial hydraulic press, both after different specific joint preparations.…”