Abstract
As explained mathematically, the magnitude of the ‘diabolo’ effect in sintered nuClear-fuel pellets is a function of the slope and position of the sinterability curve and the density gradient existing in the green pellets. If sinterability is representedby a straight line passing through the origin, the diabolo effect is negligible; this condition can be fulfilled when using a deactivated powder.
In any other case, the density gradient must be kept as low as possible to produce sintered pellets of regular shape. This is discussed as a function of powder roughness, lubricant quality, lubrication technique, and compaction characteristics.
When the sinterability curve cannot be adapted and powder quality and lubrication conditions are fixed, the possibility still exists of minimizing irregularities in sintered diameter by using a single-action press and compacting the powder in an adapted conical die with a moving lower punch.
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