Document Details
PURL
(818 K)
Title:
TSC Presentation of SPPP Program (February 13, 1957)
Author(s):
Document Type:
REPORT
Publication Date:
1957 Feb 12
Declassification Date:
1998 Mar 31
Accession Number:
None
Document Number(s):
NAA-SR--MEMO-1863
Originating Research Org.:
North American Aviation, Inc., Canoga Park, CA (United States). Atomics International Div.
OpenNet Entry Date:
2017 Oct 24
OpenNet Modified Date:
2023 Nov 06
Description/Abstract:
The proposed reactor is a homogeneous U255 fueled hydrogen moderated beryllium reflected sphere. The core is a pseudo sphere composed of 4 concentric cylindrical anulli which consists of a hydrided alloy of uranium, zirconium, and yttrium. The unusually high hydrogen densities (7 to 8 X 1022 atoms/cc) and the relatively high temperature stability (1200° to 1400°F) of zirconium alloy hydrides makes this material especially attractive for this application where size is a premium. Further size reduction is accomplished by the use of a non-uniform radial fuel distribution. The beryllium reflector is machined to fit the psoudo sphere and its thickness is determined by minimum reactor weight considerations (100-150 lbs) rather than neutron economy. Heat is removed from the reactor by liquid sodium which is pumped through series connected annular passages between the fuel moderator cylinders. The core operates at an average temperature of 1200°F with an inlet sodium temperature of 1000°F and an outlet temperature of 1200°F. Since the reactor is epithermal and has a high neutron leakage (43%), the most effective means of control will probably be by a movable reflector element. The reactor control system must be extremely reliable and might electro-mechanical or a thermo-mechanical system.