Induced nuclear reactions: processes – systems – and elements – Control component for a fission reactor – Fuse actuated devices
Patent
1987-11-13
1989-11-14
Behrend, Harvey E.
Induced nuclear reactions: processes, systems, and elements
Control component for a fission reactor
Fuse actuated devices
376321, 361103, 361161, 313310, 374174, 337306, G21C 712
Patent
active
048805963
ABSTRACT:
A self-actuating reactor shutdown system incorporating a thermionic switched electromagnetic latch arrangement which is responsive to reactor neutron flux changes and to reactor coolant temperature changes. The system is self-actuating in that the sensing thermionic device acts directly to release (scram) the control rod (absorber) without reference or signal from the main reactor plant protective and control systems.
To be responsive to both temperature and neutron flux effects, two detectors are used, one responsive to reactor coolant temperatures, and the other responsive to reactor neutron flux increase. The detectors are incorporated into a thermionic diode connected electrically with an electromagnetic mechanism which under normal reactor operating conditions holds the the control rod in its ready position (exterior of the reactor core). Upon reaching either a specified temperature or neutron flux, the thermionic diode functions to short-circuit the electromagnetic mechanism causing same to lose its holding power and release the control rod, which drops into the reactor core region under gravitational force.
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Barrus Donald M.
Brummond William A.
Shires Charles D.
Behrend Harvey E.
Carnahan L. E.
Gaither Roger S.
Hightower Judson R.
The United States of America as represented by the United States
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