Small modular reactor refueling sequence
US9666313B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 12, 2013 |
| Grant date | May 30, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 30, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E30/30
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A nuclear reactor includes at least: a pressure vessel including an upper vessel section and a lower vessel section connected by a mid-flange and containing primary coolant; a nuclear reactor core disposed in the lower vessel section and immersed in the primary coolant; and upper internals suspended from the mid-flange of the pressure vessel. The upper internals include at least internal CRDMs immersed in the primary coolant and control rod guide frames. To refuel, the nuclear reactor is depressurized. The upper vessel section is disconnected and removed while leaving the mid-flange in place with the upper internals remaining suspended from the mid-flange. The mid-flange is then removed with the upper internals remaining suspended from the mid-flange. The fuel is replaced, the mid-flange is placed back onto the lower vessel section with the upper internals remaining suspended from the mid-flange, and the upper vessel section is placed back and re-connected.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.