SPECIAL REPORT | HIP TO THE FUTURE HIP to the future Advanced production techniques such as Hot Isostatic Pressing can
help reduce supply chain bottlenecks and unlock new design possibilities in a rapidly expanding nuclear sector
By Ian Tough, Market Development Manager, Bodycote
NUCLEAR POWER PLAYS A CRITICAL role in modern energy networks, providing reliable baseload electricity with zero carbon emissions at the point of source. As global energy usage continues to rise, nuclear is becoming an increasingly important supply-side solution – underpinning grid reliability – and is consequently expected to take on greater prominence than ever before. In response, the sector is evolving as new
investment streams and reactor designs start to emerge. Previously, the sector was characterised by state-backed megaprojects, with new build nuclear power plants costing tens of billions of dollars and taking many years to complete. However, urgent energy demands are driving a push for more flexible and scalable solutions, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs). However, the nuclear industry has a problem. The
Laser inspection of a PM-HIP capsule. Source: Bodycote
historical ‘feast and famine’ nature of nuclear new build has created consolidation in the supply base, leaving a restricted number of experienced and qualified suppliers. Geographic concentration of key nuclear production capabilities has added to supply risk in increasingly uncertain geopolitical times.
Crucially, critical nuclear components demand
extreme precision and extensive quality controls, resulting in high backlogs and long lead times. Some castings and forgings have waiting times of many months, or even years, as a limited number of suppliers struggle to keep up with demand. At the same time, the stringent requirements of nuclear components make it difficult to scale traditional manufacturing routes.
Introducing new production techniques The greater adoption of advanced production techniques could make a difference. One such approach is powder metallurgy Hot Isostatic Pressing (PM-HIP), a well- established process that has a long history of application in critical sectors such as subsea oil and gas, aerospace, and medical, and is already qualified for use under nuclear codes. PM-HIP is an advanced forming process that uses high
pressure and temperature to produce near-net-shape metal components from powder alloys, with outstanding mechanical properties. In nuclear applications, it delivers several transformative benefits. These include significantly shorter lead times for near-net-shape component
16 | June 2026 |
www.neimagazine.com
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