Experimental Study on Laser Cutting Process of Simulated Fast Reactor Fuel Rods

The cladding of fast reactor fuel rod is fabricated using stainless steel, which, owing to its ductility, presents challenges such as increased tool wear and diminished cut quality when mechanically sheared. In light of technological advancements, laser cutting has emerged as a superior method due to its flexibility and high efficiency. The quality of laser-cut fuel rod significantly influences subsequent processing of short segments. This study systematically analyzes the impact of various laser cutting parameters on the cutting quality of simulated fast reactor fuel rod. Optimization of cutting speed, focal position, power, and gas pressure has substantially improved cutting effectiveness. Experimental findings indicate that a combination of 1 m/min cutting speed, focal position ranging from − 20 mm to -25 mm, power between 7200 W and 9600 W, and 10 MPa gas pressure achieves the optimal balance between efficiency and quality, providing crucial insights for the efficient cutting of fast reactor fuel rod.