---
title: "Kinectrics and Burloak test metal AM for nuclear applications"
url: https://www.voxelmatters.com/kinectrics-and-burloak-test-metal-am-for-nuclear-applications/
date: 2025-10-02
modified: 2025-10-01
lang: en
author: "Edward Wakefield"
description: "Kinectrics, a division of BWX Technologies, and Burloak Technologies, a Division of Samuel, Son & Co., have demonstrated a successful application of metal additive manufacturing for nuclear energy. This milestone..."
categories:
  - "AM for Energy"
  - "Case Studies"
  - "Metal Additive Manufacturing"
  - "Nuclear Energy"
tags:
  - "future"
image: https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Burloak-News-Release-900-x--640x334.webp
word_count: 341
---

# Kinectrics and Burloak test metal AM for nuclear applications

Kinectrics, a division of BWX Technologies, and [Burloak Technologies, a Division of Samuel, Son & Co.](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/burloak-technologies-inc/), have demonstrated a successful application of [metal additive manufacturing for nuclear energy](https://www.voxelmatters.com/lfam-enables-the-future-of-nuclear-energy-at-ornl/). This milestone provides a broader range of supply chain options when sourcing specialized components.

The partnership, which began in 2021, brings together two recognized Canadian leaders in the fields of nuclear lifecycle services and AM, and has enabled the use of AM to provide fully tested, [nuclear-grade components](https://www.voxelmatters.com/scientists-investigate-3d-printed-steels-for-nuclear-reactors/) that address obsolescence in operational fleets and support emerging reactor technologies.

This latest collaboration involves the AM of a hydraulic manifold - a complex, pressure-retaining, high-grade steel component - that was originally produced through conventional means. This part was designed and manufactured to meet the stringent mechanical and safety requirements of nuclear service environments, and to demonstrate a nuclear qualification path for [Burloak’s metal AM process](https://www.voxelmatters.com/burloak-and-mda-scale-metal-am-for-satellite-constellations/), marking a significant step toward the broader adoption of AM in the nuclear sector.

While the initial focus is on addressing high-obsolescence risk components in Canada’s CANDU fleet and other aging nuclear reactors, both companies see a clear role for AM in the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and advanced reactor designs. AM’s ability to reduce part count, optimize fluid dynamics, and enable rapid prototyping aligns with the performance, cost, and scalability goals of [next-generation nuclear technologies](https://www.voxelmatters.com/ornls-3d-printed-steel-capsules-endure-nuclear-reactor-testing/).

"This program demonstrates that AM parts can be qualified for nuclear use when the process is controlled and validated to nuclear-grade standards. We’ve applied the same rigor we bring to traditionally manufactured components, ensuring that safety, performance, and traceability remain uncompromised," said David Marttila, Senior Director of Nuclear Equipment Solutions at Kinectrics.

"Additive manufacturing enables on-demand production of replacement parts that are otherwise impossible to source. We’re not only solving for obsolescence - we’re working with Kinectrics to help develop the framework for using the additive manufacturing (AM) process in the Canadian nuclear industry, while creating new engineering options that meet and often exceed the performance of legacy manufacturing processes," said Jason Ball, Vice President and General Manager of Burloak Technologies.