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The necessity for comprehensive research into additive manufacturing and material deposition technologies arises from the unique challenges posed by the operational demands of fusion machines. These advanced machines require maintenance tools and systems capable of functioning in harsh environments, where traditional methods are insufficient. Via an embedded engineering support contract, the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) commissioned M5tec to identify and catalogue technologies that can be adapted for these scenarios, ensuring the ongoing efficiency and safety of fusion operations.
M5tec’s embedded engineer collaborated with UKAEA to conduct research on additive manufacturing and material deposition technologies, which are instrumental in conducting in-situ spot repairs of inner pipe material layers. The comprehensive report delivered by M5tec provides UKAEA with valuable insights into the current landscape of additive manufacturing and material deposition technologies available in the UK. It offers detailed summaries of all the technologies examined, identifies potential challenges associated with their deployment within fusion machines, and outlines crucial areas for future development to enhance their maturity and effectiveness.
Services provided by M5tec include:
The project resulted in the production of several technical artefacts, including:
In conclusion, M5tec’s extensive expertise in advanced manufacturing technologies and remote handling systems has been pivotal in addressing the unique challenges posed by fusion machines. Through comprehensive research and collaboration with UKAEA, M5tec has successfully identified and catalogued technologies that can be adapted for in-situ repairs and maintenance in harsh environments. This project has provided valuable insights into the current landscape of additive manufacturing and material deposition technologies available in the UK, outlining crucial areas for future development to enhance their maturity and effectiveness.
This project was awarded to M5tec under the Embedded Engineering Resource multi-supplier framework in which M5tec are a subcontractor to AtkinsRéalis Ltd.
Working on this project has furthered my knowledge on fusion technologies, in particular relating the materials required in a fusion environment and their properties. I also gained insight into the modern UK additive manufacturing and material deposition technology sector, and the capabilities and constraints associated with these technologies. Working with a team of engineers embedded within UKAEA from a range of companies and backgrounds was an inspiring example of cross-collaboration of companies to drive the goal of fusion energy forward and have the UK be a global leader in the industry.
Working on this project with Dean was very rewarding. He did an excellent job leading the investigation into potential technologies to undertake in-bore pipe repair. He worked really well in collaboration with a wide-ranging team of engineers (from multiple different organisations) and managed to secure a huge amount of value and know-how regarding additive manufacturing techniques for the fusion market.
