URANIUM - A NUCLEAR METAL AND ITS MANUFACTURING PROPERTIES

The most Important metal found in nature and used for nuclear energy is Uranium. This is used as a nuclear fuel and is radioactive, easily oxidized and exists in three allotropic forms. This has a poor resistance to corrosion and needs to be protected for use as fuel elements by roll cladding a thin aluminum or zirconium jacket. The metal in the pure condition is weak and is susceptible to severe irradiation damage and growth in the reactor environments. Addition of some alloying elements such as chromium, molybdenum, plutonium, zirconium, etc. are added to make the material highly suitable for nuclear power.

Uranium compounds, such as UO2 as a dispersion in cermet or as ceramic slugs, have been found to give better service. Uranium oxide is highly refractory, shows no phase change in an inert atmosphere , possesses a good strength and higher corrosion resistance. But it as a low thermal shock resistance, poor thermal conductivity and a high coefficient of expansion. The melting point of Uranium is 1850*C.

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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Air Refrigeration System :

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Mechinopedia For Mechanical Engineers

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