Method for testing the strength and structural integrity of nuclear fuel particles
An accurate method for testing the strength of nuclear fuel particles is disclosed. Each particle includes an upper and lower portion, and is placed within a testing apparatus having upper and lower compression members. The upper compression member includes a depression therein which is circular and sized to receive only part of the upper portion of the particle. The lower compression member also includes a similar depression. The compression members are parallel to each other with the depressions therein being axially aligned. The fuel particle is then placed between the compression members and engaged within the depressions. The particle is then compressed between the compression members until it fractures. The amount of force needed to fracture the particle is thereafter recorded. This technique allows a broader distribution of forces and provides more accurate results compared with systems which distribute forces at singular points on the particle. 13 figs.
- Research Organization:
- Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC07-94ID13223
- Assignee:
- Lockheed Idaho Technologies Co., Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
- Patent Number(s):
- US 5,459,767/A/
- Application Number:
- PAN: 8-362,052
- OSTI ID:
- 119052
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: PBD: 17 Oct 1995
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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