Method for replacing bolts on core components in nuclear reactors

US4991280A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Siemens Aktiengesellschaft · DE

Inventors

• Gerd Reimer · Hochstädt, DE
• Reinhardt Strobel · Nuremberg, DE
• Lothar Werres · Langensendelbach, DE
• ALFRED GERSTENHOEFER · Nuremberg, DE
• Theo Kaeufl · Johanngeorgenstadt, DE
• Anton Kautetzky · Forchheim, DE
• Ulrich Krippner · Vincenzenbronn, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 3, 1989
• Grant date: Feb 12, 1991
• Expiry date: Aug 3, 2009

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T29/531
• WIPO field: Engines, pumps, turbines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A method for replacing bolts on core components of nuclear reactors includes machining away a bolt fastened at an installation site in a core component as well as the entire fastening of the bolt with an electroerosion machine. Machined-away bolt material is removed and caught with a filter. The bolt is then ejected from the core component with a closed force system. The installation site of the bolt is remachined with an accurate fit and a new bolt is subsequently inserted. An apparatus for replacing bolts on core components of nuclear reactors includes rails. An auxiliary platform is supported on the rails on both sides of a reactor pressure vessel. An auxiliary crane is disposed on the auxiliary platform and adjustable transverse to the rails. A tool carrier is guided on the auxiliary platform and suspended from the auxiliary crane. A tool is disposed on the tool carrier for replacing bolts on core components.