TCM: expert in custom special machines for industry
At Thomas Constructions (TCM), we work closely with our industrial customers to design, manufacture and commission special machines with high added value. With our in-house design office and manufacturing workshop in France (Vagney), we provide turnkey solutions, from engineering to on-site installation.
Innovative project for the nuclear industry: a natural convection test loop
TCM completed a project for an innovative startup in the next-generation nuclear power sector, to design and manufacture a natural convection test loop made of 316L STAINLESS STEEL and INCONEL 625.
This custom-made testing facility is used to:
- Test and characterize the behaviour of molten salts (NaCl–MgCl₂)
- Study dynamic corrosion mechanisms in circulation
- Validate thermal hydraulic concepts in natural convection
This type of equipment is essential for developing state-of-the-art nuclear reactors and innovative technologies for the energy sector.
End-to-end project management: from design to commissioning
Design and mechanical engineering phase
Our teams took care of the following:
- Working drawings and detailed mechanical design
- Manufacturing drawings (Approved for Production – BPE)
- “As Built” (TQC) drawings
- Sizing and definition of convection loops under harsh conditions
Procurement and traceability for the nuclear sector
In compliance with industry requirements:
- Procurement of certified materials (316L STAINLESS STEEL, INCONEL 625)
- Supply of material certificates
- Acceptance with complete document control (including technical data sheets and certificates of conformity)
Workshop manufacturing and assembly
Complete production in our workshop:
- Manufacture of natural convection loops
- Assembly of components using high-performance, corrosion-resistant alloys
- Precision machining and metalwork with stainless steel/special alloys
Quality control and compliance with nuclear standards
To ensure industrial quality and nuclear safety, , TCM carried out the following:
Welding and qualification procedure
- Drafting of the Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) and the Welding Procedure Qualification Record (WPQR)
- Qualification of welders
- Monitoring of welding specifications
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
- Penetrant Testing (PT)
- X-ray inspection of welds
- 100% volumetric and surface inspection of welded seams
Dimensional checks and testing
- Dimensional check reports
- Leak tests with test reports
- Helium leak testing to validate the leak tightness of welded assemblies
Project monitoring and traceability
- Monitoring via LOFC (List of Production and Control Operations)
- Hold points and customer notifications
- Provision of metallurgical test specimens
Turnkey solution for testing in harsh environments
This custom-designed industrial test loop exemplifies TCM’s expertise in:
- Special machines for the nuclear industry
- Thermal and fluidic test facilities
- Equipment made of high-temperature, corrosion-resistant materials
TCM: Your partner for all your engineering and industrial special machine needs
In addition to these types of projects, TCM can provide support with:
- Design and manufacturing of industrial special machines (automated lines, test workstations, production equipment and handling systems)
- On-site industrial maintenance (mechanical engineering, metalwork, welding, and technical repairs)
- Safety compliance of industrial facilities
- Retrofitting and upgrading of existing industrial equipment
Do you have a project involving industrial special machinery or testing facilities?
Our design and production teams are available to discuss your needs and provide you with a customized, high-performance and reliable industrial solution.
Contact Thomas Constructions Mécaniques (TCM) for your requirements in:
- special machinery
- mechanical engineering
- industrial testing equipment
- facilities for the nuclear sector
