Supported by funding from Next Generation Manufacturing (NGen), SIMSA contracted March Consulting Associates Inc. (March) to conduct a study to explore the opportunity to leverage advanced manufacturing techniques (AMTs) for small modular reactors (SMRs) and how the Saskatchewan supply chain could become involved. AMTs have the potential to drive cost reductions, schedule/lead time reductions, faster turnaround time to market, improved product features, and increased quality and safety.
Download the full report HERE.
The report looked at how Saskatchewan suppliers can use AMTs to help with small modular reactor development. The following key areas of opportunity to adopt AMTs were identified:
- welding and joining,
- additive manufacturing and advanced materials,
- automation,
- sensors and smart systems and data management and logistics.
Examples of the welding and joining techniques investigated include, but are not limited to: electron beam welding, submerged arc welding (narrow gap and tandem), cold metal transfer and diode laser cladding for the following components:
- Fine motor control rod drives,
- control rod blades,
- reactor pressure vessels.
A number of suggestions to accelerate the adoption of AMTs for SMRs have been included throughout the report. The key next steps are:
- Ensuring a skilled workforce
- Strategy for supplier development and qualification:
- Access to funding:
- Enhanced Collaboration
- Pathway for AMTs for SMRs
Saskatchewan has an existing robust, diversified construction and manufacturing sector currently focused primarily on the agriculture, construction, mining, and oil and gas industries. The report’s findings provide insight on how the Saskatchewan supply chain can harness a competitive advantage, by investing in AMTs to support SMR manufacturing and deployment.
