Method and apparatus for dehydrating high level waste based on dew point temperature measurements
US7707741B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 6, 2005 |
| Grant date | May 4, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 25, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E30/30
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system and method for drying cavities loaded with high level waste (“HLW”) is devised. The invention utilizes a non-intrusive procedure that is based on monitoring the dew point temperature of a non-reactive gas that is circulated through the cavity. In one aspect, the invention is a method comprising: a) flowing a non-reactive gas through the cavity; b) repetitively measuring the dew point temperature of the non-reactive gas exiting the cavity; and c) upon the dew point temperature of the non-reactive gas exiting the cavity reaching and remaining below a predetermined dew point temperature for a predetermined time, discontinuing the flow of the non-reactive gas and sealing the cavity. In another aspect, the invention is a system designed to carry out the method.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.