Framatome announced an investment in a new separative capacity on its Jarrie site (France), reinforcing its production of high-quality hafnium and zirconium alloys for the nuclear, aerospace, defense and space industries.
The Jarrie site is part of Framatome’s robust and integrated zirconium component manufacturing chain for the final production of nuclear fuels through a unique extractive separation process. Hafnium is a derivative of nuclear grade zirconium production, widely used as an alloy in high-tech applications to improve advanced mechanical performance, especially at high temperatures.
“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,” said Lionel Gaiffe, Fuel Business Unit senior executive vice president at Framatome. “Our ambition is to strengthen our position as a reference both in France and on the international market.”
The applications of hafnium in strategic and essential sectors are numerous and crucial in technological progress. Due to its unique heat and corrosion resistance properties, hafnium is essential in the manufacture of components for nuclear reactors, aeronautical turbines, advanced defense systems and space equipment.