Self-actuating reactor-shutdown system. [LMFBR]
A control system for the automatic or self-actuated shutdown or scram of a nuclear reactor is described. The system is capable of initiating scram insertion by a signal from the plant protection system or by independent action directly sensing reactor conditions of low-flow or over-power. Self-actuation due to a loss of reactor coolant flow results from a decrease of pressure differential between the upper and lower ends of an absorber element. When the force due to this differential falls below the weight of the element, the element will fall by gravitational force to scram the reactor. Self-actuation due to high neutron flux is accomplished via a valve controlled by an electromagnet and a thermionic diode. In a reactor over-power, the diode will be heated to a change of state causing the electromagnet to be shorted thereby actuating the valve which provides the changed flow and pressure conditions required for scramming the absorber element.
- DOE Contract Number:
- AT03-76SF71032
- Assignee:
- Dept. of Energy
- Application Number:
- ON: DE82011752
- OSTI ID:
- 5275616
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS
LMFBR TYPE REACTORS
REACTOR PROTECTION SYSTEMS
ACTUATORS
ENGINEERED SAFETY SYSTEMS
REACTOR SHUTDOWN
SCRAM RODS
BREEDER REACTORS
CONTROL ELEMENTS
EPITHERMAL REACTORS
FAST REACTORS
FBR TYPE REACTORS
LIQUID METAL COOLED REACTORS
REACTOR COMPONENTS
REACTORS
SHUTDOWNS
220400* - Nuclear Reactor Technology- Control Systems
210500 - Power Reactors
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