Abstract

The spacer grid (20) is placed and held during welding in an arrangement such that its two opposite faces perpendicular to the edges (33) of the cells (34) are entirely accessible. At least four edge segments (33) of the grid (20) are welded simultaneously using two assemblies with at least two laser beam welding devices (25a, 25b, 25d) arranged on either side of the opposite faces of the spacer grid (20). Each of the welding devices directs a welding laser beam onto an edge (33) of the grid, via the exterior of the cells (34). After a welding operation, a relative displacement between the spacer grid (20) and the welding devices (25a, 25b, 25d) is produced so as to direct the welding laser beams (30a, 30b) of the welding device to at least four new edge segments (33) of the grid (20).

Other References

Patent Abstracts of Japan, vol. 10, No. 83, Apr., 1986, "Welding Device For Nuclear Fuel Spacer", JP. 60-223693.