Method of fabricating a nuclear reactor fuel assembly grid

Details Method of fabricating a nuclear reactor fuel assembly grid Method of fabricating a nuclear reactor fuel assembly grid

2006-12-12

2006-12-12

Keith, Jack (Department: 3663)

Induced nuclear reactions: processes, systems, and elements

Fuel component structure

Plural fuel segments or elements

C376S439000, C376S441000, C376S442000, C376S462000

Reexamination Certificate

active

07149273

ABSTRACT:
A method of fabricating a fuel assembly grid that includes providing a plurality of interconnected straps that form a lattice pattern, wherein the lattice pattern of the straps defines a plurality of cells, providing a sleeve that has a cylindrical portion and a flared portion, and inserting the sleeve into at least one of the cells. When inserted, at least a portion of the cylindrical portion of the sleeve will reside inside the cell and the flared portion will extend above the top end of the cell and overhang the perimeter of the cell. The flared portion is melted and flows over and fuses to the straps that define the cell. The straps may include weld tabs over which the melted material flows and to which it fuses. The melting and fusing steps also preferably cause any loose straps surrounding the cell to become attached to the sleeve.

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