INL Glovebox Tensile Testing System

The goal of this project is to create a small-scale tensile testing system for Idaho National Laboratory with the capability to perform high-temperature tests that can be easily installed in a glovebox.

Background
Idaho National Laboratory is currently researching a Uranium-Plutonium-Zirconium alloy as a potential solid fuel for nuclear reactors. While some testing has already been done, there is still much more to learn, particularly about the mechanical properties of the alloys. Due to its radioactive nature, any test performed on the U-Pu-Zr alloy must be done in a glovebox for safety, hence the need for a glovebox-based tensile tester. Our machine will enable INL to further their knowledge of this alloy and its potential usefulness. There are many models of tensile tester that already exist, but none meet the requirements set by INL. Many of these machines, especially those with the capability to perform high-temperature tests, are much too large and complex to be used in a glovebox. The models that are small enough are designed for much smaller loads than required for this device and cannot heat testing samples.

Deliverables
At the end of this project, we will have a functional tensile testing device that meets the requirements of INL. We will also create detailed instructions for the assembly of the device inside the glovebox, as well as usage instructions for performing tests and operating the heater.

Requirements
The device must:
 * Perform tensile tests on alloys
 * Heat samples up to 700C for high-temperature tests
 * Fit through an 8” diameter port in the glovebox, or be comprised of parts that can be easily assembled once in the glovebox.
 * Have a base no larger than 1 ft square
 * Have as few electrical components as possible in the glovebox
 * Have a suitable user interface

Design Considerations
The main limitation of the glovebox is a size constraint. Not only is there limited space inside the glovebox, but whatever we design has to fit through an 8” diameter hole so that researchers at INL can install it in the glovebox. On top of that, the system must be able to perform high temperature tests up to 700 C. Due to the radiation inside the glovebox, as many of the electronic components need to be outside as possible. The glovebox does have passthroughs that enable this. For the safety of the user, no external surface can exceed 50C, so some form of insulation will be needed around the heating chamber.

Additional Documentation
Project Schedule

Fits Like a Glove Gantt Chart

Meeting Minutes

[Fits Like a Glove Meeting Minutes Document]

Presentations