UMaine Partners with Kairos Power to Implement Large-Scale 3D Printing for Nuclear Reactor Construction

The University of Maine (UMaine) has utilized large-scale 3D printing to assist Kairos Power in the construction of its experimental Hermes nuclear reactor in Tennessee. Traditional construction methods faced challenges of being slow and costly, prompting UMaine's Advanced Structures and Composites Center to fabricate massive concrete form liners with high precision using its large 3D printer.

The project achieved commercial-grade precision while shortening production cycles and reducing material waste. This collaboration is part of the SM²ART initiative, involving UMaine and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, aiming to enhance energy infrastructure through advanced manufacturing techniques.

Additionally, UMaine is developing an AI-supported system to track the additive manufacturing process, which could streamline regulatory compliance in nuclear power and defense sectors. The project illustrates how 3D printing is transforming nuclear reactor construction.