3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is an innovative technology that can simplify the manufacturing process by directly converting from 3D models to actual parts. Additive manufacturing can reduce cost, improve quality and design flexibility, and eliminate traditional manufacturing constraints.

3D design and printing provide quality and cost saving options, especially for the manufacture of spare parts and the creation of prototypes, which often require significant costs to build new production lines. Changes in 3D printing are only minor programming changes.

3D printing is known for creating scale models and other innovations, as well as 3D stereo replication. You may even have a 3D printer device at home. The technology was first developed in the 1980s and has revolutionized almost everything in the last 10 years. Today, we can not only print with plastic and rubber. We can use metals and other materials (such as various high-tech composite materials) for printing.

So it is no surprise that it will enter the nuclear industry. The most promising application is in the development of microreactors, which are very small nuclear reactors, usually less than 10 megawatts, and can be installed on the back of towing trailers.

Although the internal components of the microreactor may be complex, the aerospace industry has less time and lower cost than traditional methods in 3D printing of complex jet engine components. Replacement of discontinued parts is a challenge for nuclear power plants, and 3D printers can be used to make parts.

It's not science fiction. 3D printing components have entered the nuclear power plant, and advanced test reactors use 3D printing to make test capsules.

Just like all other industries, nuclear power is entering the future through two new processes: 3D printing, new materials and new applications. In ten years, 3D printers will be widely used.

Sources from: https://creality3dpro.store/blogs/news