Methods and devices to improve performances of RCCA and CEA to mitigate clad strain in the high fluence region
US12046381B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 21, 2021 |
| Grant date | Jul 23, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 18, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E30/30
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present disclosure is generally related to methods, devices and systems for improving the performances of a Rod Cluster Control Assembly (RCCA) and/or a Control Element Assembly (CEA) to mitigate clad strain, especially in the high fluence region, during normal operation conditions and accident conditions. One method may include incorporating a device such as a powder collection and blockage device between the ceramic upper and ceramic lower absorber materials of the RCCA and/or CEA. Another method may include increasing the plenum volume by incorporating an axial hole into the top end plug extension. Another method may include increasing the plenum volume by incorporating an axial hole into the bottom end plug and optionally incorporating radial grooves in the bottom of the lower absorber material to provide a flow channel for gas expansion or generation to ensure that the lower absorber does not block the opening in the bottom end plug.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.