Abstract: The mechanical performance of CF₂ lead fuel assembly and the thermal-mechanical performance of the fuel rod are evaluated considering the irradiation condition of the irradiation program and the criteria are fulfilled. The major in-pile performance of CF₂ fuel assembly are studied on the basis of the poolside examination results, including the burnup dependent parameters such as the growth of fuel assembly and fuel rod, the bow of fuel assembly and fuel rod, the growth of grid, etc. The results show that the major in-pile performance of the CF₂ fuel assembly has reached the expectations, and the fuel has fulfilled the requirements of the reactor system.