Induced nuclear reactions: processes – systems – and elements – Fuel component structure – Plural fuel segments or elements
Patent
1994-03-15
1994-11-22
Harvey, Behrend E.
Induced nuclear reactions: processes, systems, and elements
Fuel component structure
Plural fuel segments or elements
285319, 285921, G21C 330
Patent
active
053675487
ABSTRACT:
An integral reusable locking arrangement between the guide tube and upper end fitting of a reconstitutable fuel assembly that eliminates all loose fastener components at the reactor site. A retainer sleeve is fabricated as an addition to or part of the upper end sleeve of the guide tube assembly. The retainer sleeve is formed from a cylindrical tube that has a plurality of flexible tabs spaced around the circumference of the tube at the lower end and substantially at the mid section of the tube. The lower tabs serve to center the guide tube in a hole in the upper end fitting or top nozzle. The mid section tabs extend beyond the shoulder of a counterbore in the hole in the upper end fitting or top nozzle and serve to retain the guide tube and upper end fitting in the installed position. A sleeve or collet may be inserted into the counterbore to force the tabs inward and unlock the retainer and guide tube from the upper end fitting.
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patent: 5268948 (1993-12-01), Church et al.
B&W Fuel Company
Edwards Robert J.
Harvey Behrend E.
LaHaye D. Neil
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