Spatial variability in the mechanical properties of Gilsocarbon

José David Arregui-Mena, William Bodel, Robert N. Worth, Lee Margetts, Paul M. Mummery

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

19 Scopus citations

Abstract

The objective of this study is to investigate whether there is significant spatial variability in the mechanical properties of Gilsocarbon nuclear graphite at different sections of the billet; specifically the dynamic Poisson's ratio, dynamic shear modulus, dynamic Young's modulus and density. Similar studies have been done, usually in the context of manufacturing, to assess the quality of graphite components for nuclear reactors. In this new study, the measurements have been carried out at a much higher spatial resolution than previously. A Torness/Heysham B billet was machined into cubes so that measurements could be made across the circumference and height of the billet. ASTM standards were followed to assess the measurements of the samples. The spatial variability of material properties is described and analysed statistically. The study shows that material variability is present at different heights and circumferential locations of the billet. This discovery will have a significant impact on the structural integrity and through life performance predictions made in industry; both in current and future nuclear reactors. The computer modelling of graphite components may predict different outcomes to standard analyses (that use mean values) if this variability is incorporated into the analysis workflow; specifically through stochastic modelling.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)497-517
Number of pages21
JournalCarbon
Volume110
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 1 2016
Externally publishedYes

Funding

The authors wish to thank the support and resources provided by the Mexican National Science and Technology Council (CONACYT) and EPSRC through grant QUBE: Quasi-brittle fracture: a 3D experimentally-validated approach (EP/JO19763). The authors also want to acknowledge the contributions of Alan Steer and EDF Energy Generation for providing the billet for this study. The authors would also like to thank the staff of Erodex (UK) Ltd, especially to John Webb, Lee Chivers and Paul Angel for helping us to machine the specimens used in this research.

FundersFunder number
Mexican National Science and Technology Council
Engineering and Physical Sciences Research CouncilEP/L504725/1, EP/JO19763
Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología

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