Feasibility Study of Processing P91 Steel Alloy via Binder Jetting for Energy Sector Applications

In response to the recent demand for innovation in new sustainable energy sources, nuclear fusion emerges as a highly relevant and significant process. Given the international effort invested in manufacturing functional reactors, Additive Manufacturing (AM) stands out as a technology that can contribute to meeting the challenges and objectives of applications requiring advanced designs. This study explores the manufacturability of P91 alloy using Binder Jetting (BJ) for high-pressure applications, including those within prospective fusion reactor systems. Following the optimization of the AM process, subsequent adjustments in sintering, Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP), and various required heat treatments have resulted in excellent material quality in terms of microstructure. Therefore, this study validates the successful use of BJ technology for employing P91 alloy.