The effect of copper-steel joining technology on the radiation resistance of copper alloys

Currently, when developing the components and units of the ITER first wan a nd divertor different technologies are considered for the production of Cu/ SS-type joints: explosion welding, high-temperature brazing, etc. But, the most promising for the production of joints seems to be the method of hot i sostatic. pressing (HEP). A high HIP temperature of similar to 950 degreesC causes considerable changes in the properties of copper alloys (for steel the RIP effect is less substantial). This paper presents the first results of the investigation into the radiati on resistance of DS copper alloys (GlidCop A1251G and MAGT 0.2) and PH copp er alloy (Cu-Cr-Zr), irradiated to 0.2 dpa at T-irr = 150 degreesC and 300 degreesC. The alloys were investigated both in the optimized state and afte r the HIP procedure. The investigations demonstrated that after the HIP procedure GlidCopA125IG- type alloy, when irradiated, had a satisfactory level of strength and plast icity properties at T-test = T-irr = 150 degreesC and embrittled strongly a t T-test = T-irr = 300 degreesC. The PH alloys soften essentially after the HIP procedure and have a high pl asticity both in the initial and irradiated state.