Spacer grid spring for increasing the conformal contact area...

Details Spacer grid spring for increasing the conformal contact area... Spacer grid spring for increasing the conformal contact area...

2007-02-16

2011-12-27

Palabrica, Rick (Department: 3663)

Induced nuclear reactions: processes, systems, and elements

Grids

C376S438000

Reexamination Certificate

active

08085895

ABSTRACT:
A grid strap includes a spacer grid spring that increases the conformal contact area with a fuel rod of a nuclear fuel rod assembly. The shape of the spacer grid spring is optimized, thereby increasing the elasticity of the spacer grid spring contacting the fuel rod, expanding the conformal contact area with a contact portion between the spacer grid spring and fuel rod to obtain uniform stress distribution, and reducing excessive plastic deformation of the spacer grid spring. Further, magnitude and distribution of contact pressure between the fuel rod and the spacer grid spring are improved, thereby reducing the possibility of fretting wear caused by contact between the fuel rod and the spacer grid spring. Lastly, the elastic behavior region of the spacer grid spring is expanded, so that the fuel rod can be reliably supported until the fuel rod expires despite changes in the supporting conditions of the fuel rod.

REFERENCES:
patent: 4389369 (1983-06-01), Bryan
patent: 4659542 (1987-04-01), Kerrey
patent: 6707872 (2004-03-01), Yoon et al.
Ki-jong Park et al.: “Design of a Spacer Grid Using Axiomatic Design” Journal of Nuclear Science and Technology, vol. 40, No. 12, p. 19.
Kee-nam Song et al.: “Shape optimization of Spacer Grid Springs to Support Nuclear Fuel Rods”, 11th International Conference on Nuclear Engineering Tokyo, Japan, Apr. 20-23, 2003 ICONE11-36500.
Ki-Jong Park et al.: “Structural Optimization for Non-Linear Behavior Using Equivalent Static Loads by Proportional Transformation of Loads”, Journal of Mechanical Science and Technology, vol. A 30. No. 1 pp. 66-75, 2006.

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