Method and apparatus for storing nuclear fuel assemblies in maximum density racks
A maximum density storage rack is provided for long term or semipermanent storage of spent nuclear fuel assemblies. The rack consists of storage cells arranged in a regular array, such as a checkerboard, and intended to be immersed in water. Initially, cap members are placed on alternate cells in such a manner that at least 50% of the cells are left open, some of the caps being removable. Spent fuel assemblies are then placed in the open cells until all of them are filled. The level of reactivity of each of the stored fuel assemblies is then determined by accurate calculation or by measurement, and the removable caps are removed and rearranged so that other cells are opened, permitting the storage of additional fuel assemblies in a pattern based on the actual reactivity such that criticality is prevented.
- Assignee:
- TIC; EDB-80-044623
- Patent Number(s):
- US 4177386
- OSTI ID:
- 5494884
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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