Uploaded August 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have successfully tested two 3D-printed stainless steel experimental capsules in the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR). This test marks an important step in showing that additively manufactured components can meet the safety and performance requirements for use in nuclear reactors.
The capsules, printed at ORNL’s Manufacturing Demonstration Facility using 316H stainless steel, were designed to hold material samples during irradiation. They serve as a pressure and containment barrier, which is a key safety function during nuclear testing. After a month of exposure in HFIR, the capsules were removed fully intact.
This demonstration helps show how additive manufacturing could be used to streamline the development of reactor components, reducing production time and cost while supporting nuclear energy research. Read more: ornl.gov/news/3d-printed-steel-capsules-endure-nuclear-reactor-testing
ORNL is using #BigScience to make a big impact. Learn more: ornl.gov/bigscience
Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have successfully tested two 3D-printed stainless steel experimental capsules in the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR). This test marks an important step in showing that additively manufactured components can meet the safety and performance requirements for use in nuclear reactors.
The capsules, printed at ORNL’s Manufacturing Demonstration Facility using 316H stainless steel, were designed to hold material samples during irradiation. They serve as a pressure and containment barrier, which is a key safety function during nuclear testing. After a month of exposure in HFIR, the capsules were removed fully intact.
This demonstration helps show how additive manufacturing could be used to streamline the development of reactor components, reducing production time and cost while supporting nuclear energy research. Read more: ornl.gov/news/3d-printed-steel-capsules-endure-nuclear-reactor-testing
ORNL is using #BigScience to make a big impact. Learn more: ornl.gov/bigscience
