Forgings for pressurised components of a nuclear steam supply. Chapter 2

The application of forgings for nuclear reactor pressure vessels and other components of a nuclear steam supply system has increased in recent years. Chemical composition and properties of typical forgings to secure the required mechanical properties, weldability, toughness and resistance to neutron irradiation effects are discussed. Examples of manufacturing processes and quality control to ensure high-quality steel are presented. It is found to be important to control chemical composition, to eliminate impurities such as P, S and Cu and to keep hydrogen gas below specified low levels. Strict control of temperature in hot working and in heat treatment is essential. Various examples of forgings, such as flange, shell, combined vessel flange and nozzle belt, bottom head and miscellaneous applications are shown. (author)