Investigation of delayed hydride cracking in the Zr-2,5% Nb alloy

Abstract

DHC velocity in Zr-2.5%Nb alloy for different hydrogen concentrations were investigated using specimens prepared from the both CANDU and RBMK Zr-2.5%Nb fuel channel pressure tube material. Sections of the pressure tube were hydrided to produce hydrogen concentration up to 72 ppm using an electrolytic method and diffusion annealing treatment From hydryded pressure tube material compact toughness specimens were made. Axial cracking velocity was determined on fatigue pre-cracked specimens under constant loading and initial KI value of 15 MPa·1/2. © 2007 Springer.