Steam generator upper support having thermal displacement compensation
US4940025A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 6, 1989 |
| Grant date | Jul 10, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 6, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E30/30
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A steam generator upper support arrangement provides restraint to the steam generator during operating and non-operating conditions, for loading forces resulting from seismic and postulated accident conditions, while allowing for free thermal expansion of the steam generator in the radial, lateral, and vertical directions. Four embodiments of the present invention are described. In a first embodiment, inclined bumpers are placed at predetermined angles with respect to the load path, such that as the steam generator is thermally displaced the placement and incline angles of the bumpers will compensate for the expansion and maintain a nominal gap therebetween. In a second embodiment, the variable shim mechanism comprised of cams, bumper rods, and a pivoted linkage between the steam generator and the building structure maintains the nominal gap for the required support. In the third embodiment, a single small snubber is utilized. A pair of opposed, pivotally mounted rigid links arranged in a V-shaped manner are connected between the steam generator and the building structure, their respective apexes joined by the ends of the snubber to resist the loading forces. In the fourth embodime…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.