ASSEMBLY OF SOLID MODERATOR ELEMENTS FOR NUCLEAR REACTORS
An assembly of solid moderator elements for a nuclear reactor is described that comprises a plurality of vertical parallel columns, each constituted by a pile of solid moderator elements having along the column axis a channel in which the fuel elements are posrtioned and in which circulates a gaseous coolant. The elements of each column are spaced from the elements of the adjacent columns such that there is sufficient clearance between adjacent columns to allow free lateral expansion of the elements. Each of the columns is supported at one of its extremitres by a bearing-plate abutting against a support- bar fixed to the wall of the pressure vessel enclosing the reactor. At the other extremity of the column a tubular bearing-piece is provided that can slide vertically on the outer surface of a fixed collar. A helical spring, abutting with its extremities against a shoulder of the tubular bearing-piece and against a shoulder of the collar, allows the axial expansion of the column, thus ensuring cohesion between its elements. (NPO)
- Research Organization:
- Originating Research Org. not identified
- NSA Number:
- NSA-16-028495
- OSTI ID:
- 4793480
- Report Number(s):
- FR 1250669
- Country of Publication:
- France
- Language:
- English
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