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

Quick release latch for reactor scram

Patent ·
OSTI ID:7269722
A simple, reliable, and fast-acting means for releasing a control element and allowing it to be inserted rapidly into the core region of a nuclear reactor for scram purposes is described. A latch mechanism grips a coupling head on a nuclear control element to connect the control element to the control drive assembly. The latch mechanism is closed by tensioning a cable or rod with an actuator. The control element is released by de-energizing the actuator, providing fail-safe, rapid release of the control element to effect reactor shutdown. A sensing rod provides indication that the control element is properly positioned in the latch. Two embodiments are illustrated, one involving a collet-type latch mechanism, the other a pliers-type latch mechanism with the actuator located inside the reactor vessel.
Assignee:
Energy Research and Development Administration
Patent Number(s):
US 3941413
OSTI ID:
7269722
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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