Diffusion Bonding Furnace

The United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) was formed in 1954 when the British Government set up a new body to oversee the nation's nuclear research programme. UKAEA is a non-departmental public body (NDPB), under the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). UKAEA researches fusion energy and related technologies, with the aim of positioning the UK as a leader in sustainable nuclear energy. As part of a renovation and upgrade plan of the Special Techniques Group (STG) capabilities, new diffusion bonding equipment has been identified to be added as a key capability. This project's scope shall include the design, manufacture, installation, and commissioning of a diffusion bonding furnace for UKAEA's facilities at Oxfordshire. ​The requirement is to procure a capability to create diffusion bonded joints and components for specified materials. Currently, in fusion, there is an increased interest in tungsten and its alloys & CuCrZr components. Diffusion bonding is envisaged as one of the most promising techniques to joint this material. This procurement will be via a Competitive Dialogue process.