GlidCop dispersion strengthened copper, potential application in fusion power generators

The physical and mechanical properties of GlidCop brand dispersion strengthened copper (DSC) (which has been widely accepted in applications requiring high electrical conductivity and high strength) are described. Recent developments in the production of large plates have opened the door to potential applications in fusion power generating devices, specifically, toroidal and poloidal field coils. GlidCop DSC is strengthened by an ultra-fine dispersion of Al₂O₃ particles through in situ internal oxidation of the aluminum in a dilute solid solution copper-aluminum alloy powder. Test results indicate that GlidCop dispersion strengthened copper is highly resistant to swelling and the associated loss of electrical conductivity or strength after exposure to neutron irradiation. Despite exposure to temperatures of 687 K and dosage levels of 34 dpa, about 90% of the electrical conductivity of the unirradiated material was retained. Extruded bar has been utilized in the construction of the ohmic heating solenoid of the spherical torus experiment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Performance of the unit exceeded expectations with peak fields of 16.3. Brazed joints were identified as a critical component, and fatigue tests at 276-MPa design load on brazed joints ran 80000 cycles (four machine lifetimes) without failure