Framatome strengthens hafnium production for nuclear, aerospace and space customers

Framatome strengthens hafnium production for nuclear, aerospace and space customers
by Sophie Jenkins
Paris, France (SPX) Dec 01, 2023

Framatome, a key player in the global nuclear technology landscape, has announced a significant investment in expanding its separative capacity at the Jarrie site in France. This strategic move is aimed at reinforcing the company's production of high-quality hafnium and zirconium alloys, materials essential for a range of advanced industries including nuclear, aerospace, defense, and space.

The Jarrie facility is an integral part of Framatome's comprehensive zirconium component manufacturing chain, crucial for the final production of nuclear fuels. This site employs a unique extractive separation process, a testament to Framatome's innovative approach in material processing. The expansion of this facility is poised to enhance the company's capability in producing nuclear-grade zirconium and its derivative, hafnium.

Hafnium's importance in high-tech applications cannot be overstated. It is widely utilized as an alloy to improve advanced mechanical performance, particularly at high temperatures. Its unique properties of heat and corrosion resistance make it indispensable in manufacturing components for nuclear reactors, aeronautical turbines, and advanced defense systems, as well as space equipment.

Lionel Gaiffe, Fuel Business Unit senior executive vice president at Framatome, emphasized the importance of this investment. He remarked, "This strategic investment in our plant in Jarrie strengthens our ability to meet the growing needs of advanced industries such as nuclear, aeronautics, defense, space, medical and electronics." He further highlighted the company's objective, stating, "Our ambition is to strengthen our position as a reference both in France and on the international market."

The decision to expand the Jarrie site's capacity reflects Framatome's recognition of the growing demand for hafnium in strategic and essential sectors. The metal's crucial role in technological progress, particularly in industries where durability and performance under extreme conditions are paramount, is driving this increased demand.

Framatome's investment in enhancing its hafnium production capacity at the Jarrie site is a strategic move aligned with the needs of the nuclear, aerospace, defense, and space industries. This expansion not only solidifies Framatome's role as a leading supplier of critical materials but also demonstrates the company's commitment to advancing technology and innovation in key sectors. The move is expected to fortify Framatome's market presence, both domestically in France and on a global scale.