Laser welding of castings to minimize distortion

摘要

A process of using laser welding in the assembly of boiling water reactor fuel debris filters is disclosed. The laser welding process minimizes the distortion of the debris filter cast lower tie plate 14 by applying minimal heat during the welding. Fixture 52 holds the cast lower tie plate 14 through four degrees of motion under a constant controlled laser source 75 during welding. The welding process also reduces the potential for stress corrosion cracking resulting from crevices 41 and 43 in partial penetration welds 44 and 46 that might occur in a laser welding process.