I&E depleted uranium fuel element ruptures experienced under PT-IP-132-AC
Beginning in February, 1958, a sufficient quantity of seven-inch dip canned I & E depleted uranium fuel elements was prepared for irradiation to produce eleven kilograms of plutonium, containing at least twenty per cent of the Pu-240 isotope, as authorized by the Atomic Energy Commission. Subsequently, eighty-four columns in C reactor were partially charged with the finished depleted fuel under PT-IP-132-AC. To date, ten depleted ruptures have been sustained, after being irradiated six to eight months toward a planned accoumulated goal exposure of 210 MWD per column or a total irradiation time approximating 12--14 months. The mechanism and cause of these failures is being thoroughly investigated. This document summarizes the fabrication history, irradiation experience to date, rupture examinations, and an investigation of process conditions which may have contributed to the high incidence of ruptures.
- Research Organization:
- General Electric Co., Richland, WA (United States). Hanford Atomic Products Operation
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC06-76RL01830
- OSTI ID:
- 10158744
- Report Number(s):
- HW--58281; ON: DE94013498
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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