IMPROVEMENTS IN OR RELATING TO NUCLEAR REACTOR MODERATOR STRUCTURES

Patent · Wed Aug 17 04:00:00 EDT 1960

OSTI ID:4145453

Rodwell, W

A graphite-moderated configuration was invented which is strong enough for use in reactor-powered ships and which is pantly compensated for by Wigner growth. The moderator structure comprises uniform graphite blocks positioned in layers with minimum Wigner growth properties in the direction of their lengths and layers of graphite tiles alternating with the layers of blocks. The tiles are so arranged that each tile has minimum Wigner growth propenties perpendicular to both the block lengths and the direction of minimum Wigner growth in adjacent tiles. In one typical configuration, the blocks are 9 x 8.5 x 31.2 in. and the tiles are 9-in. cubes. After irradiation. the side faces of the tiles remain in contact and their axes move apart by an amount equal to half the sum of minimum and maximum growths. The blocks are prevented from becoming wider than the tiles by the fact that maximum growth occurs on the 8.5-in. side only. Means are also provided for keying the tiles to the blocks and for preventing coolant leakage from the channels. (D.L.C.)

• Research Organization: Originating Research Org. not identified
• NSA Number: NSA-14-025035
• OSTI ID: 4145453
• Report Number(s): GB 845306
• Country of Publication: United Kingdom
• Language: English

Related Subjects

CONFIGURATION
GAS FLOW
GRAPHITE MODERATOR
IRRADIATION
LAYERS
LOSSES
MECHANICAL STRUCTURES
MODERATORS
PATENT
PROPULSION
REACTOR TECHNOLOGY
REACTORS
SHIPS
WIGNER EFFECT