Hot Isostatic Pressing Temperature Effect on Chromium-Zirconium Copper Alloy Structure and Properties

Hot isostatic pressing, one of the most promising ways of obtaining high-quality joining of metallic materials, is to be used in the manufacture of permanent joints for the structural elements of fusion reactor installations. However, it can significantly affect the structure and properties of a material. The effect of hot isostatic pressing was investigated on samples of a chromium-zirconium copper alloy selected for the manufacture of individual in-chamber structural elements of fusion reactors. This alloy is preferred because of its enhanced electrical and thermal conduction as well as high strength. The present work is concerned with the effect of temperature, simulating hot isostatic pressing, on the structure and properties of the alloy. The optimal hot isostatic pressing temperature in combination with subsequent heat treatment which afford the necessary physical and mechanical properties of the chromium-zirconium copper alloy was determined.