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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

IMPROVEMENTS IN OR RELATING TO NUCLEAR GRAPHITE MODERATOR STRUCTURES

Patent ·
OSTI ID:4077086

A reactor graphite moderator is designed in which internal stresses from temperature changes or Wigner growth are minimized, deformation is reduced, and gaseous coolant leakge from coolant channels is prevented. The moderator is comprised of layers of extruded vertical graphite blocks with layers of molded graphite tiles separating the ends of the blocks in adjacent layers; the blocks have axial cylindrical coolant channels, while the tiles are arranged so that their centers coincide vertically with the coolant channels, notches being provided at the tile corners to fit the channels. Heys and keyways are provided on both blocks and tiles to fit them together. A small gap is left between adjacent blocks for Wigner growth, but the tiles prevent coolant leakage or neutron streaming. (D.L.C.)

Research Organization:
Originating Research Org. not identified
NSA Number:
NSA-15-012515
OSTI ID:
4077086
Report Number(s):
GB 860308
Country of Publication:
United Kingdom
Language:
English