Experimental study on the laser cutting process of the stainless steel hexagonal tube of fast reactor simulate assembly

Utilizing laser technology for the dismantling and cutting of fast reactor assembly represents a viable nuclear fuel reprocessing technology for future applications. The commonly adopted procedure involves removing the hexagonal tube and end structures of the assembly without compromising the integrity of the fuel rods, which are then cut into short segments. Therefore, mastering the laser cutting parameters that ensure high-quality cuts of the hexagonal tube while minimizing damage to the internal component rods is essential. This study investigates the impact of laser cutting parameters on the quality of cuts in stainless steel hexagonal tubes. Optimal conditions—3.5 m/min cutting speed, −1.5 mm focal position, 4800 W power, and nitrogen at 15 MPa—produced minimal kerf width (0.438 mm), surface roughness (4.21 μm), and slagging length (0.206 mm). These findings highlight the importance of precise parameter control in laser cutting for nuclear applications, offering significant improvements in efficiency and safety for fast reactor fuel reprocessing.