IMPROVEMENTS RELATING TO NUCLEAR REACTORS

Patent · Wed Aug 17 04:00:00 EDT 1960

OSTI ID:4159717

Wood, W G.E.; Thomas, P B

A core configuration for gas-cooled graphite-moderated reactors was invented which offsets Wigner growth (growth perpendicular to the grain due to neutron irradiation) and minimizes distortion of fuel and control channels. Since Wigner growth is greatest near the lower part of the core, the configuration comprises an uncompensated zone surrounding a compensated zone, the uncompensated zone being large in the upper part of the core and small in the lower part. Each zone consists of graphite blocks separated by spacer slabs; the grain direction of the blocks is vertical. In the uncompensated zone the slab grain is also vertical, but in the compensated zone the slab consists of two layers whose grains are horizontal and are opposed to each other. (D.L.C.)

• Research Organization: Originating Research Org. not identified
• NSA Number: NSA-14-023734
• OSTI ID: 4159717
• Report Number(s): GB 844884
• Country of Publication: United Kingdom
• Language: English

Related Subjects

CONFIGURATION
DEFORMATION
FUEL ELEMENTS
GAS COOLANT
GAS FLOW
GRAIN BOUNDARIES
GRAPHITE MODERATOR
IRRADIATION
LAYERS
NEUTRONS
PATENT
REACTOR CORE
REACTOR TECHNOLOGY
REACTORS
WIGNER EFFECT
ZONES