Revolutionizing Nuclear Power Plant Technology with Laser Steel Hardening

The Engineering Division of Rosatom’s Central Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering (TsKBM) is introducing a new laser steel hardening technology in the production of advanced equipment for nuclear power plants (NPPs). Developed in collaboration with the Engineering Centre for the Use of Laser Technologies in Mechanical Engineering at Vladimir State University (VSU), this innovative method has been used to create rotary components for pumps in an NPP machine hall.

The technology for laser heat-shrinking of steels was developed by TsKBM, and it enhances the wear resistance of products and improves the accuracy of predicting the production timing of pumping equipment. This is particularly crucial as nuclear technology gains more interest.

According to TsKBM Production Director Alexei Kuzmin, laser hardening was initially implemented on rotor parts for pumps produced for NPP machine rooms. The surface hardness of steel was increased by 1.5-2 times, preventing the development of deep scratches and jamming during product assembly. Previously, the emergence of deep scratches on shafts and work wheels required specialists to remake these parts, a process that could take up to nine months. This new technology has demonstrated significant improvements in product durability and manufacturing efficiency.