Optimized FFTF Acceptance Test Program covering Phases III, IV, and V

A detailed review of Phases III, IV, and V of the FFTF Acceptance Test Program has been completed. The purpose of this review was to formulate that test sequence which not only meets requirements for safe, reliable and useful operation of the plant, but also results in the earliest prudent demonstration of full-power performance. A test sequence based on the underlying assumption that sodium flows into the secondary sodium storage tank (T-44) no later than August 31, 1978, is described in detail. A time-scale which allows extra time to put systems and equipment into operation the first time, debugging, and learning how to operate most effectively has been superimposed on the test sequence. Time is not included for major equipment malfunctions. This test plan provides the basis for coordinating the many and varied activities and interfaces necessary for successful and timely execution of the FFTF Acceptance Test Program. In this report, the need dates have been identified for presently scheduled test articles and standard core components

THE DEVELOPMENT OF HIGH PURITY TANTALUM AND ALLOYS FOR LIQUID PLUTONIUM CONTAINMENT IN LAMPRE I

By combining arc casting and electron beam melting, spectroscopically pure tantalum and alloys, suitable for containment of molten Pu-Fe alloys, were produced. The 0.1% W alloy was used for the first LAMPRE loading. The effects of a large number of additives on the corrosion resistance of tantalum were tested. Additions of up to 10% tungsten gave increasing endurance. Specimens of tantalum irradiated with neutrons until 3% converted to tungsten were stitl satisfactory in mechanical properties for reactor use. Either tungsten or the traces of yttrium remaining after arc melting can raise the one-hour recryatatlization temperature of tantalum by 400 deg C. Effects of internal strain, critical strain and precipitation hardening in tantalum alloys were studied. High-temperature annealed tantalum had superior corrosion resistance, while impact extruded and ironed material was better than deep-drawn metal. Mechanical tests on tantalum with added interstitial elements showed that their presence to the extent expected in LAMPRE would be unlikely to weaken the tantalum. Evidence was found that oxygen promotes plutonium attack on tantalum. Small amounts of hydrogen, nitrogen and carbon had no effect on corrosion. (auth