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

Nuclear core positioning system

Patent ·
OSTI ID:863271
A structural support system for the core of a nuclear reactor which achieves relatively restricted clearances at operating conditions and yet allows sufficient clearance between fuel assemblies at refueling temperatures. Axially displaced spacer pads having variable between pad spacing and a temperature compensated radial restraint system are utilized to maintain clearances between the fuel elements. The core support plates are constructed of metals specially chosen such that differential thermal expansion produces positive restraint at operating temperatures.
Assignee:
Westinghouse Electric Corp. (Pittsburgh, PA)
Patent Number(s):
US 4135974
OSTI ID:
863271
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English