Metal 3D printing helps localize the production of equipment for hydrogen generation.
On January 30, an agreement on cooperation was signed in Bishkek between the fuel division of Rosatom, the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University named after B. N. Yeltsin, the representative office of the state corporation in Kyrgyzstan, and the engineering company LLC "Boka Hydro KG". The purpose of this agreement is to integrate additive technologies into the country's renewable energy sector.
The agreement implies the creation of equipment for new and existing hydropower facilities using 3D printing. The partnership will cover various areas, including the joint development of design documentation and the supply of equipment for interested clients.
“Our unique competencies cover the entire process of additive technologies – from the serial production of high-tech printers and metal powders to training and servicing personnel. We see great potential for applying these technologies in Kyrgyzstan's energy sector and are ready to share our experience within this partnership. We already have successful experience in creating additive technology centers and international cooperation in this field,” said Ilya Kavelashvili, director of the Additive Technologies business unit of Rosatom's fuel division.
In addition, a project office for hydropower has been opened based at KRSU, which in the first phase will focus on preparing feasibility studies and design documentation for small and medium hydropower plants. This will lay the foundation for creating an intelligent hub and a model site of international level.
“The establishment of a project office at KRSU will allow us to prepare engineering personnel for Kyrgyzstan. We will not only train students but also provide them with the opportunity for practical application of technologies that are already changing the world. This will ensure a rapid transition from ideas to real production and strengthen the technological sovereignty of the republic,” noted KRSU rector Sergey Volkov.
It should be clarified that the fuel division of the state corporation Rosatom (managing company – JSC TVEL) includes enterprises engaged in the production of nuclear fuel, uranium conversion and enrichment, as well as research and design organizations. TVEL is the sole supplier of nuclear fuel for Russian nuclear power plants and supplies fuel for more than 70 reactors in 15 countries, as well as research reactors in nine states, including transport reactors for the Russian nuclear fleet. Every sixth energy reactor in the world uses TVEL fuel. The fuel division also holds leading positions in the stable isotopes market and is the largest producer of enriched uranium.
Within the framework of the "Additive Technologies" direction, comprehensive solutions are offered, including the development of 3D printers, components, printing materials, software, service support and training, as well as 3D printing services and the creation of additive technology centers at enterprises.
Additive technologies allow for the production of parts and components that are difficult to create using traditional methods. Three-dimensional printing helps reduce the weight of products, optimize material consumption, and significantly shorten production times. Modern 3D printers can be adapted for manufacturing products of various purposes, both in single and mass production. Products obtained through 3D printing find application in a wide range of fields, including nuclear and space technologies, as well as medicine.
Energy traditionally remains one of the main sectors for the application of additive technologies, especially in the repair and maintenance of equipment. Thanks to 3D printing, energy companies can quickly and economically obtain the necessary parts and spare parts. In addition, additive technologies allow for small-scale or individual production, which may not be cost-effective for traditional factories.
The development of 3D printing technologies opens up new opportunities for creating not only spare parts but also key components of original equipment in various industries. As practice shows, the application of additive technologies in industry allows, on average, to reduce material consumption by 8 times and cut electricity costs by 75% during repairs, ensuring virtually waste-free production.
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