About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
TMS Specialty Congress 2026
|
| Symposium
|
Energy Materials 2026
|
| Presentation Title |
Advancing SiC Composite Tube Processing and Non-Destructive Evaluations for Nuclear Applications |
| Author(s) |
Takaaki Koyanagi, Dylan Richardson, Alex Rogers, Benjamin Lamm, Ercan Cakmak, J. David Arregui-Mena |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Takaaki Koyanagi |
| Abstract Scope |
A hollow tube structure of a SiC fiber-reinforced SiC matrix composite has been proposed for subcomponents of core structures in advanced nuclear fission and fusion energy systems. Fabricating high-quality components for these applications requires precise dimensional control, cost-effective manufacturing, and process consistency, while still meeting thermo-physical property requirements. To advance current processing technologies to meet these needs, this work explores the application of advanced manufacturing and characterization methodologies. SiC fiber winding on an additively manufactured SiC tube substrate enabled a smooth inner surface finish and precise control of the inner diameter. Newer grades of SiC fibers were evaluated to enhance the ultimate strength of the composites. AI-assisted X-ray computed tomography analysis of the tube materials reduced turnaround times for detecting processing-induced cracks and microporosity, as well as for assessing dimensional accuracy in manufacturing. Finally, an optimization framework for SiC tube processing is discussed. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Undecided |