Preparation method of complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for fusion reactor

Printing polyethylene materials through FDM technology to prepare radiation shielding modules with complex shapes solves the problems of traditional modules with high weight, complex processing and low material utilization, and realizes lightweight, low-cost, customizable and efficient radiation protection, suitable for fusion reactors complex structure and special environment.

CN119261204APending Publication Date: 2025-01-07INST OF ENERGY HEFEI COMPREHENSIVE NAT SCI CENT (ANHUI ENERGY LAB)
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202411551094.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-11-01
Publication Date
2025-01-07

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional radiation shielding modules are difficult to meet the protection needs of complex structures of fusion reactors due to their high material density, high cost, complex processing, low material utilization, inconvenient installation and maintenance and simple shape, and are particularly poor in environmental adaptability in special environments.

Method used

Using melt deposition modeling (FDM) technology to print and manufacture radiation shielding modules in complex shapes with polyethylene materials. Through 3D model design and printing parameter optimization, a rapid, economical and customizable shielding module preparation is achieved, combined with high hydrogen of polyethylene materials. Content and chemical stability ensure effective shielding of neutrons and gamma rays.

Benefits of technology

It provides a lightweight, low-cost, customizable radiation shielding solution that improves material utilization, simplifies installation and maintenance, enhances environmental adaptability, and meets the radiation protection needs of complex shapes and high performance.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention discloses a preparation method of a complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for a fusion reactor. The method comprises the following key steps: selecting a high-density polyethylene / boron nitride composite material as a printing material; designing a three-dimensional model of the radiation shielding module; printing parameters are determined; slicing and printing; after printing is completed, post-processing is carried out; testing radiation shielding performance; and installing the radiation shielding module which is tested to be qualified at a designated position. According to the method, the absorption efficiency of neutrons and gamma rays is improved by utilizing the high hydrogen content of a polyethylene material, the mechanical property of a printing material is improved by utilizing boron nitride, the method can be suitable for manufacturing radiation-proof shielding parts with various complex shapes and low cost conveniently and quickly required by a shielding module, and correct installation and effective shielding of the module are ensured.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention belongs to the technical field of radiation protection, and in particular relates to a method for preparing a polyethylene radiation shielding module with a complex shape for a fusion reactor. Background Art

[0002] With the rapid development of the nuclear energy industry, the demand for radiation protection is growing. Radiation protection is not only related to the health and safety of workers, but also an important measure to ensure the normal operation of equipment and environmental safety. Previous radiation protection equipment was mainly aimed at fission reactors. Compared with fission reactors, fusion reactors have complex structures and shielding modules of different shapes, which require higher radiation protection modules. The traditional shielding device module is mainly made by injection molding, and there are still many deficiencies in materials and production methods: 1. Weight and cost issues Materials such as metal and concrete have high density, which makes the radiation shielding modules heavy and difficult to move and install. The high cost of these materials and the high cost of mold production increase the economic burden of protective facilities.

[0003] 2. Difficulty of processing and customization Traditional radiation shielding modules are complex to process and difficult to customize in complex shapes and sizes, which limits their application in special environments. For example, in some narrow spaces or irregular structures in nuclear power plants, traditional methods are difficult to provide effective protection solutions.

[0004] 3. Low material utilization In the traditional manufacturing process, the utilization rate of materials is low, resulting in waste of resources and increased production costs. Especially when the protective facilities need to be frequently replaced or upgraded, the problem of material waste is particularly prominent.

[0005] 4. Inconvenient installation and maintenance Due to weight and structural limitations, the installation and maintenance of traditional radiation shielding modules are relatively complicated and require professional personnel to operate, which increases maintenance costs and time.

[0006] 5. Poor environmental adaptability The shielding effect or stability of metal and concrete materials may be affected in certain special environments (such as high temperature, humidity, etc.), limiting their scope of application.

[0007] 6. Simple module shape Traditional shielding modules are mainly for fission devices, and the shape requirements for radiation shielding modules are relatively simple. In contrast, the main structure of fusion devices is complex, and the shape of shielding modules is complex, requiring a more flexible module preparation method.

[0008] In recent years, 3D printing technology has been widely used in various fields due to its rapid prototyping, flexible design, and high material utilization. In particular, Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology has become the most widely used 3D printing technology due to its relatively simple equipment and operation, as well as low cost. FDM technology can print the required objects layer by layer according to the designed 3D model, making it possible to customize the production of complex shapes. Summary of the invention

[0009] The present invention provides a method for printing and manufacturing radiation shielding modules using fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology with polyethylene material as the substrate. This method solves the problems of high manufacturing cost, long cycle and limited shape of traditional radiation shielding modules, and provides a fast, economical and customizable solution. The technical solution is as follows: A method for preparing a complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for a fusion reactor comprises the following steps: Step 1: Material selection Polyethylene was chosen as the printing material because it has a high hydrogen content and can effectively absorb neutrons and gamma rays, while also having good chemical stability and cost-effectiveness.

[0010] Step 2: 3D model design Computer-aided design (CAD) software is used to design a three-dimensional model of the radiation shielding module based on the geometry of the radiation hotspot and the radiation protection requirements. The structural strength, shielding efficiency, and installation convenience of the module need to be considered during the design process.

[0011] Step 3: Printing parameter optimization According to the physical properties of the polyethylene material and the design requirements of the radiation shielding module, the printing parameters of the FDM printer are determined, including but not limited to printing temperature, printing speed, layer thickness, filling mode and support structure.

[0012] Step 4: 3D printing process The optimized 3D model is input into the FDM printer for slicing, and the sliced ​​data is transmitted to the printer. The printer melts and deposits the polyethylene material layer by layer according to the sliced ​​data to build the radiation shielding module.

[0013] Step 5: Post-processing After printing is completed, necessary post-processing work is carried out, including removing support structures, smoothing the surface, inspecting and ensuring dimensional accuracy to meet the performance requirements of the radiation shielding module.

[0014] Step 6: Performance testing The printed radiation shielding module is subjected to radiation shielding performance testing, including evaluation of the shielding effect of neutrons and gamma rays, to ensure that the module meets the radiation protection standards required by the design.

[0015] Step 7: Installation and Application According to the actual application scenario, the printed radiation shielding module is installed at the designated location for actual application.

[0016] Step 8: Continuous improvement and customized services Continuously optimize based on field application data.

[0017] Beneficial effects: 1. The innovative point of the present invention includes the use of polyethylene material, taking advantage of its high hydrogen content and good chemical stability to achieve effective shielding of neutrons and gamma rays.

[0018] 2. 3D model design is performed through CAD software to achieve precise control of the shape and size of the radiation shielding module. At the same time, the model is optimized to reduce material usage and improve structural strength.

[0019] 3. Set the parameters of the FDM printer in detail, including printing temperature, speed, layer thickness and filling density, to adapt to the characteristics of polyethylene materials and ensure printing quality.

[0020] 4. The method of the present invention is not limited to polyethylene materials, and other materials with good radiation shielding properties, such as polycarbonate, ABS, etc., can also be selected according to actual needs to meet different application requirements. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 The present invention is a flow chart of a method for preparing a complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for a fusion reactor.

[0022] Figure 2 The present invention is a schematic diagram of the printing process of a method for preparing a complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for a fusion reactor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The following is a detailed description of an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is implemented on the premise of the technical solution of the present invention, and a detailed implementation method and a specific operation process are given, but the protection scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment.

[0024] Example This embodiment involves the following detailed steps to ensure effective manufacture and application of the radiation shielding module: 1. Material selection Polyethylene material with a high hydrogen content was selected as the printing substrate to ensure its efficient shielding ability against neutrons and gamma rays.

[0025] 2. 3D model design Using advanced CAD software, we design accurate 3D models of radiation shielding modules according to the specific characteristics of the radiation source and the shielding requirements. During the design process, we fully consider the module's geometry, size, structural strength and shielding efficiency, as well as the convenience of installation and maintenance.

[0026] 3. Detailed setting and optimization of printing parameters Based on the physical properties of polyethylene materials, such as melting point, viscosity and shrinkage, the printing parameters of the FDM printer are optimized. Including but not limited to: (1). Printing temperature: set between 180°C and 240°C to ensure sufficient melting of the material and inter-layer bonding.

[0027] (2). Print speed: Select the appropriate speed to ensure printing quality and efficiency.

[0028] (3) Layer thickness: controlled within the range of 0.1mm to 0.4mm to balance printing speed and product accuracy.

[0029] (4) Filling pattern: Select a filling pattern that suits the radiation shielding requirements, such as a honeycomb or grid structure.

[0030] (5) Support structure: Design support structures that are easy to remove and do not affect the performance of the final product.

[0031] 4. 3D Printing Process The designed 3D model is imported into the FDM printer for slicing, and the printer is controlled to print polyethylene material layer by layer according to the slicing data. During the printing process, the printer status and printing quality are monitored in real time to ensure the stability of the printing process and the consistency of the product.

[0032] 5. Post-processing and quality control After printing, detailed post-processing is performed, including: (1). Remove all supporting structures to ensure that the module surface is smooth and free of residue.

[0033] (2) Grind and smooth the module surface to improve its appearance quality and surface protection performance.

[0034] (3) Carry out dimensional accuracy inspection to ensure the installation accuracy and adaptability of the module.

[0035] 6. Performance Testing The printed radiation shielding module is subjected to comprehensive performance testing, including: (1). Use a standard radiation source and detector to measure the radiation intensity before and after the module and evaluate its shielding efficiency.

[0036] (2) Conduct mechanical performance tests, including compressive strength and impact resistance tests, to ensure the durability and reliability of the module.

[0037] 7. Installation and on-site verification Develop a detailed installation plan based on the actual application scenario. During the installation process, ensure that the relative position and angle between the module and the radiation source meet the design requirements. After the installation is completed, re-measure the radiation intensity on site to verify the shielding effect and make necessary adjustments based on the results.

[0038] 8. Continuous improvement and customized services Based on customer feedback and field application data, we continuously optimize product design and printing parameters and provide customized services to meet the specific needs of different customers and application scenarios.

[0039] Through the above-mentioned specific implementation methods, the present invention not only provides an efficient, economical and customizable radiation shielding module manufacturing method, but also ensures the high quality and high performance of the module, meeting the high standards required for the protection of modern nuclear energy industry and medical equipment.

[0040] The above description is only a specific implementation mode of the present invention, but the protection scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art should understand that any changes or substitutions that can be easily thought of by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed by the present invention are within the protection scope and disclosure scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for preparing a complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for a fusion reactor, characterized in that: The following steps are involved: Step 1, select high-density polyethylene / boron nitride composite material as printing material; Step 2, designing a three-dimensional model of the radiation shielding module using computer-aided design software; Step 3, determining the printing parameters of the FDM printer according to the physical properties of the polyethylene material and the design requirements of the radiation shielding module; Step 4: Input the optimized 3D model into the FDM printer for slicing, and transfer the sliced ​​data to the printer for printing; Step 5: After printing is completed, post-processing is performed, including removing support structures, smoothing the surface, and checking dimensional accuracy; Step 6: Conduct a radiation shielding performance test on the printed radiation shielding module.

2. The method for preparing a complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for a fusion reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The polyethylene composite material has a high hydrogen content to improve the absorption efficiency of neutrons and gamma rays; the composite material contains boron nitride to improve the mechanical properties of the material.

3. The method for preparing a complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for a fusion reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The 3D model design takes into account the structural strength, shielding efficiency and installation convenience of the module.

4. The method for preparing a complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for a fusion reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The printing parameters include printing temperature, printing speed, layer thickness, filling mode and support structure.

5. The method for preparing a complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for a fusion reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The post-processing work includes removing the support structure using tools or manual methods, and grinding and smoothing the module surface.

6. The method for preparing a complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for a fusion reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The performance test involves measuring radiation intensity before and after the module using a standard radiation source and detector.

7. The method for preparing a complex-shaped polyethylene radiation shielding module for a fusion reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The installation work described provides detailed installation instructions and usage suggestions to ensure correct installation and effective shielding of the module.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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