Thimble grip fuel assembly handling tool
US4834934A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 4, 1988 |
| Grant date | May 30, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 4, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S294/906
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A thimble grip fuel assembly handling tool (20) for transporting fully loaded fuel assemblies (52) is disclosed. The tool (20) comprises an elongated mast (23) slidingly disposed within an elongated cylinder (113), the cylinder being of a length less than the mast (23) such that the tool defines a mast fill-up position (126) and a mast full-down position (128). A cage (110) assembly acts to protect the gripping means (32) when the tool is transported in the mast full-up position (126). The gripping means (32) is comprised of a plurality of gripping members (49) which grip the inside diameter of control rod guide thimbles (50). The load path is distributed in the tool such that when the fuel assembly (52) secured to the gripping means (32) is raised, the weight of the fully loaded fuel assembly (52) acts to increase the gripping force on the fuel assembly. A number of indicators on the tool act to indicate to an operator: when the tool is in the mast full-down position; when the gripping members (49) have been fully actuated; and if there is any slipping of the gripping members within the fuel assemblies. The tool also includes a secondary gripping mechanism which engages the top no…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.