Nuclear Power Plant Maintenance Cold Spray Solutions
There are commercial nuclear power plants in 28 states in the US, mostly east of the Mississippi. Although accounting for only 9% of the generating capacity, they consistently produce around 20% of the total electricity produced in the US.
Despite a decline in operating reactors over the past few years, electricity capacity and generation at these reactors have increased, maintaining a level of around 800,000 MWh per year.
Nuclear Industry Challenges
Despite nuclear power being the largest source of carbon-free energy in the US, it has its challenges. The transportation, storage, and disposal of used fuel are at the top of the list for those challenges. Constructing new power plants is constrained by high capital costs, regulations, and long lead times.
In addition, the general public is seeking out more wind and solar alternatives due to their often poor perception of nuclear power. Combine that with high operating costs due to regulations on nuclear power plant maintenance, plant inspections, and staffing levels, and you have a financial dilemma on your hands.
VRC Solutions for Nuclear Power Plant Maintenance
Shortening the time reactors are offline is one way the declining number of nuclear power plants has increased their capacity and electricity generation. Reducing downtime and eliminating component replacement is how VRC Metal Systems’ High-Pressure Cold Spray (HPCS) technology can continue this trend along with some added benefits:
- HPCS is portable, allowing for repairs to occur in place, reducing the time systems need to be offline.
- You can apply the process to both ferrous and non-ferrous materials.
- Due to the lower application temperature of cold spray, there are no heat-affected zones eliminating distortion, warping, or metallurgically altering the base material.
- A wide range of metal or composite powders create coatings for:
- dimension restoration
- corrosion resistance
- changing surface finish
- enhanced thermal or conductivity characteristics
- adding small or complex features to larger components
- Efficient use of materials with little masking results in lower material and labor costs.
VRC Metal Systems is trusted by government organizations and reputable institutions worldwide. With VRC’s High-Pressure Cold Spray systems, you receive expert on-site implementation and maintenance support from highly-trained staff.
If you’re interested in a cost-effective repair & maintenance solution for your nuclear power plant maintenance needs request a quote, and one of our Sales Engineers will contact you.
Contact VRC Metal Systems today to find out how cold spray technologies can support your nuclear power plant maintenance needs.
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