Nuclear plant technology firm Westinghouse Electric has announced that its specialty metals plant in Blairsville, Pennsylvania, will be fitted with new equipment to accommodate the company's new projects in China, and the pending projects in the US.
Westinghouse said that the nearly $13 million capital improvements will include the addition of two high-speed pilgers and a new vacuum annealing furnace. The equipment is expected to be commissioned in the first quarter of 2009.
Reportedly valued in excess of $11 million, the pilgers will be used in the manufacturing of seamless zirconium alloy tubing from extruded raw material, a key component of nuclear fuel assemblies.
Westinghouse said that the procurement of the vacuum annealing furnace, valued at $1.75 million, will support the anticipated growth of the next generation of zirconium alloys that provide enhanced performance for its customers.
Aris Candris, senior vice president of the firm’s nuclear fuel business unit, said: The investments we are making to expand our manufacturing capabilities will position Westinghouse for continued success in the worldwide nuclear renaissance.