3D technology is transforming the nuclear technician's trade, enabling the creation of spare parts on demand for reactors. A clear example is the manufacturing of a cooling pump component that is no longer produced. This reduces plant shutdowns and avoids storing obsolete parts for decades.
Digital modeling and simulation of radioactive environments ⚛️
To operate safely, the technician uses software like Blender to model complex geometries and ANSYS to simulate thermal stresses on printed parts. Combined with Rhinoceros 3D, specialized tools that withstand radiation are designed. Prior simulation avoids costly errors and unnecessary personnel exposure to active areas.
When the spare part arrives instead of the pizza 🍕
Imagine the technician ordering an urgent part and it arriving on the 3D printer before the coffee from the machine. Sure, then you have to explain to the boss that the reactor isn't working because the nozzle got clogged with cheap filament. But hey, at least now you can print an atom-shaped keychain while you wait.