CA2732898C - End fitting assembly for nuclear reactor mock-up assembly - Google Patents
End fitting assembly for nuclear reactor mock-up assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2732898C CA2732898C CA2732898A CA2732898A CA2732898C CA 2732898 C CA2732898 C CA 2732898C CA 2732898 A CA2732898 A CA 2732898A CA 2732898 A CA2732898 A CA 2732898A CA 2732898 C CA2732898 C CA 2732898C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- fitting
- assembly
- main tube
- hub
- inboard
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- Expired - Fee Related
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G21—NUCLEAR PHYSICS; NUCLEAR ENGINEERING
- G21C—NUCLEAR REACTORS
- G21C17/00—Monitoring; Testing ; Maintaining
- G21C17/06—Devices or arrangements for monitoring or testing fuel or fuel elements outside the reactor core, e.g. for burn-up, for contamination
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G21—NUCLEAR PHYSICS; NUCLEAR ENGINEERING
- G21C—NUCLEAR REACTORS
- G21C3/00—Reactor fuel elements and their assemblies; Selection of substances for use as reactor fuel elements
- G21C3/02—Fuel elements
- G21C3/04—Constructional details
- G21C3/06—Casings; Jackets
- G21C3/10—End closures ; Means for tight mounting therefor
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G21—NUCLEAR PHYSICS; NUCLEAR ENGINEERING
- G21C—NUCLEAR REACTORS
- G21C17/00—Monitoring; Testing ; Maintaining
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G21—NUCLEAR PHYSICS; NUCLEAR ENGINEERING
- G21C—NUCLEAR REACTORS
- G21C19/00—Arrangements for treating, for handling, or for facilitating the handling of, fuel or other materials which are used within the reactor, e.g. within its pressure vessel
- G21C19/14—Arrangements for treating, for handling, or for facilitating the handling of, fuel or other materials which are used within the reactor, e.g. within its pressure vessel characterised by their adaptation for use with horizontal channels in the reactor core
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G21—NUCLEAR PHYSICS; NUCLEAR ENGINEERING
- G21C—NUCLEAR REACTORS
- G21C21/00—Apparatus or processes specially adapted to the manufacture of reactors or parts thereof
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G21—NUCLEAR PHYSICS; NUCLEAR ENGINEERING
- G21C—NUCLEAR REACTORS
- G21C3/00—Reactor fuel elements and their assemblies; Selection of substances for use as reactor fuel elements
- G21C3/30—Assemblies of a number of fuel elements in the form of a rigid unit
- G21C3/32—Bundles of parallel pin-, rod-, or tube-shaped fuel elements
- G21C3/334—Assembling, maintenance or repair of the bundles
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E30/00—Energy generation of nuclear origin
- Y02E30/30—Nuclear fission reactors
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- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Plasma & Fusion (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- High Energy & Nuclear Physics (AREA)
- Monitoring And Testing Of Nuclear Reactors (AREA)
Abstract
A modular end fitting assembly for use with a mock-up assembly for simulating nuclear reactor end fitting conditions. A main tube portion has an end fitting hub and an end closure fitting is removably secured thereto in axial relation by a securing mechanism. The tube has at opposing ends an outboard end portion and an inboard end portion. A locating aperture passes through the inboard portion for fixing tube length in the mock-up. The outboard portion has a feeder mount radially positioned thereon relative the aperture. The mount has a predetermined angular orientation relative the fitting when the aperture fixes the length of the tube. Alternatively, the mount is positioned inboard and adjacent the hub, which has an outboard end surface. The fitting has an inboard surface for releasably securing the fitting with the hub at a predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the mount and tube.
Description
END FITTING ASSEMBLY FOR NUCLEAR REACTOR
MOCK-UP ASSEMBLY
The present invention relates to an end fitting assembly for use with a mock-up assembly simulating as found nuclear reactor end fitting conditions suitable for use in testing, training and proving of tools to be used in the reactor environment.
BACKGROUND
The end fittings for a CANDUTM nuclear reactor form part of the primary heat transfer system of the reactor. The end fittings are connected with pressure tubes that run through the reactor core and carry fuel bundles. Within the reactor core, the pressure tubes are surrounded by calandria tubes spaced therefrom by garter springs.
Heavy water is circulated into and out of the reactor through the end fittings and the pressure tubes which contain fuel bundles. The end fittings also provide connection points for a fuelling machine to lock onto for the insertion and removal of fuel into the pressure tubes of the fuel channel. Each end fitting has a closure plug to maintain water pressure in the channel and the closure plug is removed by the fuelling machine creating an opening through which a new fuel bundle carried by the fuelling machine is inserted into the fuel channel and spent fuel bundles are removed at the opposite end of the reactor. In a CANDUTM nuclear reactor there may be as many as 480 fuel channels having opposite ends connected to an end fitting.
In the past, the nuclear reactor industry has developed various mock-up devices for testing various aspects of the as found reactor design in a non-radioactive mock-up site or building located near the reactor. At these mock-up sites, tool testing and proving can be performed prior to the tool being used in the radioactive environment of the nuclear reactor. One such mock-up assembly that has been developed for testing tooling to be used with the end fittings is a 3 x 3 array mock-up of end fittings.
The 3 x 3 array mock-up of end fittings typically has one target end fitting surrounded by eight dummy end fittings. The target end fitting has the same geometry as the as found end fittings in the nuclear reactor and is mounted in a lattice tube within the mock-up in the same manner as the as found end fitting in the nuclear reactor. The target end fitting is used to test new tooling for purposes of fuelling the reactor, fuel channel inspection, fuel channel replacement, tool training and tool proving associated with any operation to be performed on a fuel channel. The dummy end fittings provide the representative end fitting geometry to the target end fitting in the reactor environment and are available to react the tooling forces associated with the tools used on the target end fitting. In some instances tooling may clamp onto adjacent dummy end fittings needed to react the tooling. Usually, testing instructions for the tooling may relate to a full 360 degrees about the target end fitting, and hence the target end fitting is typically located in the central site of the 3 x 3 array with dummy end fittings located in the other eight sites surrounding the target end fitting.
In this mock-up assembly, lattice tubes extend between aligned openings passing through two opposing face plates representing inner and outer tubesheets of the calandria. The lattice tubes are adapted to support the eight dummy end fittings and the target end fitting. Each lattice tube has two axially spaced bearings located in the tube for receiving in sliding free floating relation between these bearings a leading end portion of the dummy end fitting or target end fitting. An external clamping assembly located on the outside of one of the end plates clamps to the dummy end fitting so as to restrain the dummy end fitting axially. While this end fitting arrangement provides a mock-up that represents as found nuclear reactor dummy and target end fitting configurations, this end fitting assembly requires many components to be assembled in setting up the mock-up including a full length lattice tube that extends between the face plates, internal lattice tube bearings, and an external clamping mechanism.
Further, the end fittings used in the mock-up assembly are site specific due to different nuclear reactors having end fittings of different lengths and different angular orientations of the feeder mount. The feeder mount, through which heavy water passes into and out of the fuel channel across the fuel bundles to affect heat transfer, is
MOCK-UP ASSEMBLY
The present invention relates to an end fitting assembly for use with a mock-up assembly simulating as found nuclear reactor end fitting conditions suitable for use in testing, training and proving of tools to be used in the reactor environment.
BACKGROUND
The end fittings for a CANDUTM nuclear reactor form part of the primary heat transfer system of the reactor. The end fittings are connected with pressure tubes that run through the reactor core and carry fuel bundles. Within the reactor core, the pressure tubes are surrounded by calandria tubes spaced therefrom by garter springs.
Heavy water is circulated into and out of the reactor through the end fittings and the pressure tubes which contain fuel bundles. The end fittings also provide connection points for a fuelling machine to lock onto for the insertion and removal of fuel into the pressure tubes of the fuel channel. Each end fitting has a closure plug to maintain water pressure in the channel and the closure plug is removed by the fuelling machine creating an opening through which a new fuel bundle carried by the fuelling machine is inserted into the fuel channel and spent fuel bundles are removed at the opposite end of the reactor. In a CANDUTM nuclear reactor there may be as many as 480 fuel channels having opposite ends connected to an end fitting.
In the past, the nuclear reactor industry has developed various mock-up devices for testing various aspects of the as found reactor design in a non-radioactive mock-up site or building located near the reactor. At these mock-up sites, tool testing and proving can be performed prior to the tool being used in the radioactive environment of the nuclear reactor. One such mock-up assembly that has been developed for testing tooling to be used with the end fittings is a 3 x 3 array mock-up of end fittings.
The 3 x 3 array mock-up of end fittings typically has one target end fitting surrounded by eight dummy end fittings. The target end fitting has the same geometry as the as found end fittings in the nuclear reactor and is mounted in a lattice tube within the mock-up in the same manner as the as found end fitting in the nuclear reactor. The target end fitting is used to test new tooling for purposes of fuelling the reactor, fuel channel inspection, fuel channel replacement, tool training and tool proving associated with any operation to be performed on a fuel channel. The dummy end fittings provide the representative end fitting geometry to the target end fitting in the reactor environment and are available to react the tooling forces associated with the tools used on the target end fitting. In some instances tooling may clamp onto adjacent dummy end fittings needed to react the tooling. Usually, testing instructions for the tooling may relate to a full 360 degrees about the target end fitting, and hence the target end fitting is typically located in the central site of the 3 x 3 array with dummy end fittings located in the other eight sites surrounding the target end fitting.
In this mock-up assembly, lattice tubes extend between aligned openings passing through two opposing face plates representing inner and outer tubesheets of the calandria. The lattice tubes are adapted to support the eight dummy end fittings and the target end fitting. Each lattice tube has two axially spaced bearings located in the tube for receiving in sliding free floating relation between these bearings a leading end portion of the dummy end fitting or target end fitting. An external clamping assembly located on the outside of one of the end plates clamps to the dummy end fitting so as to restrain the dummy end fitting axially. While this end fitting arrangement provides a mock-up that represents as found nuclear reactor dummy and target end fitting configurations, this end fitting assembly requires many components to be assembled in setting up the mock-up including a full length lattice tube that extends between the face plates, internal lattice tube bearings, and an external clamping mechanism.
Further, the end fittings used in the mock-up assembly are site specific due to different nuclear reactors having end fittings of different lengths and different angular orientations of the feeder mount. The feeder mount, through which heavy water passes into and out of the fuel channel across the fuel bundles to affect heat transfer, is
- 2 -integrally formed as part of the end fitting at a site specific angular position for connection with feeder pipes. Thus, each mock-up assembly requires many different end fittings as there are different site specific requirements. Currently in Ontario, Canada there are 21 different site specific end fitting configurations. This results in significant costs in having to inventory so many different complete end fitting configurations.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
The present invention relates to an end fitting assembly for use with a mock-up assembly for simulating as found nuclear reactor end fitting conditions suitable for use in testing, training and proving of tools to be used in the reactor environment.
The end fitting assembly is modular and includes a main tube portion having a cylindrical end fitting hub and an end closure fitting removably secured to the end fitting hub. An axial securing mechanism may be used for removably securing the end closure fitting in axially positional relation with the end fitting hub.
In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, the main tube portion has an outboard end portion and an inboard end portion at opposing ends of the main tube portion. A first locating aperture passes through the inboard end portion at a predetermined axial aperture position along the inboard end portion for fixing the main tube portion to a predetermined axial length in the mock-up assembly.
A feeder mount is coupled with the outboard end portion at a predetermined radial position thereon relative to the first locating aperture. The feeder mount has a predetermined angular orientation relative the end closure fitting when the axial length of the main tube portion is fixed using the first locating aperture.
The feeder mount may be located a predetermined axial distance from the end closure fitting.
It is envisaged that the first aspect of the invention relates to an end fitting that has an outward geometry similar to the as found end fitting geometry and may not have an inner geometry similar to the as found inner geometry of the end fitting. Such an end fitting is considered a dummy end fitting in this mock-up assembly and is available to react the tooling forces associated with tools used on the target end fitting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
The present invention relates to an end fitting assembly for use with a mock-up assembly for simulating as found nuclear reactor end fitting conditions suitable for use in testing, training and proving of tools to be used in the reactor environment.
The end fitting assembly is modular and includes a main tube portion having a cylindrical end fitting hub and an end closure fitting removably secured to the end fitting hub. An axial securing mechanism may be used for removably securing the end closure fitting in axially positional relation with the end fitting hub.
In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, the main tube portion has an outboard end portion and an inboard end portion at opposing ends of the main tube portion. A first locating aperture passes through the inboard end portion at a predetermined axial aperture position along the inboard end portion for fixing the main tube portion to a predetermined axial length in the mock-up assembly.
A feeder mount is coupled with the outboard end portion at a predetermined radial position thereon relative to the first locating aperture. The feeder mount has a predetermined angular orientation relative the end closure fitting when the axial length of the main tube portion is fixed using the first locating aperture.
The feeder mount may be located a predetermined axial distance from the end closure fitting.
It is envisaged that the first aspect of the invention relates to an end fitting that has an outward geometry similar to the as found end fitting geometry and may not have an inner geometry similar to the as found inner geometry of the end fitting. Such an end fitting is considered a dummy end fitting in this mock-up assembly and is available to react the tooling forces associated with tools used on the target end fitting.
- 3 -In an alternative aspect of the present invention, the first locating aperture may pass through the inboard end portion at a first radial aperture position. A
second locating aperture may pass through the outboard end portion at a predetermined second radial aperture position relative to the first radial aperture position. The feeder mount is located on the outboard end portion by the second locating aperture.
It is also envisaged that the assembly may include a plurality of first locating apertures and a plurality of second locating apertures. The first apertures are located at predetermined axial positions and different radial positions. The second apertures are located at predetermined radial positions each corresponding to one of the radial positions of one of the first apertures. The feeder mount is located by a predetermined one of the second locating apertures. The predetermined angular orientation of the feeder mount is achieved using a predetermined second locating aperture that corresponds to the first locating aperture when the axial length of the main tube portion is fixed using the first locating aperture.
The first locating apertures represent the overall length of the dummy end fitting assembly in the mock-up assembly. For simulating as found nuclear reactor conditions, the feeder mount is coupled with the outboard end portion at the appropriate axial location relative to the end closure fitting using a second locating aperture. The axial length of the main tube portion is set using one of the first locating apertures. The first locating apertures are at different radial positions and allow the feeder mount to have a predetermined angular orientation relative to the end closure fitting when the axial length of the main tube portion is fixed using the first locating apertures. Thus, the use of several first locating apertures allows for the end fitting to be adapted for simulating the axial length and angular orientation of more than one nuclear reactor end fitting.
In this aspect of the end fitting assembly, the end closure fitting may be rotated to any angular orientation relative the main tube portion. The angular positioning allowances for the end closure fitting on the end fitting hub allow the end closure fitting to be oriented relative to any one of a plurality of feeder mount positions in this
second locating aperture may pass through the outboard end portion at a predetermined second radial aperture position relative to the first radial aperture position. The feeder mount is located on the outboard end portion by the second locating aperture.
It is also envisaged that the assembly may include a plurality of first locating apertures and a plurality of second locating apertures. The first apertures are located at predetermined axial positions and different radial positions. The second apertures are located at predetermined radial positions each corresponding to one of the radial positions of one of the first apertures. The feeder mount is located by a predetermined one of the second locating apertures. The predetermined angular orientation of the feeder mount is achieved using a predetermined second locating aperture that corresponds to the first locating aperture when the axial length of the main tube portion is fixed using the first locating aperture.
The first locating apertures represent the overall length of the dummy end fitting assembly in the mock-up assembly. For simulating as found nuclear reactor conditions, the feeder mount is coupled with the outboard end portion at the appropriate axial location relative to the end closure fitting using a second locating aperture. The axial length of the main tube portion is set using one of the first locating apertures. The first locating apertures are at different radial positions and allow the feeder mount to have a predetermined angular orientation relative to the end closure fitting when the axial length of the main tube portion is fixed using the first locating apertures. Thus, the use of several first locating apertures allows for the end fitting to be adapted for simulating the axial length and angular orientation of more than one nuclear reactor end fitting.
In this aspect of the end fitting assembly, the end closure fitting may be rotated to any angular orientation relative the main tube portion. The angular positioning allowances for the end closure fitting on the end fitting hub allow the end closure fitting to be oriented relative to any one of a plurality of feeder mount positions in this
- 4 -end fitting assembly so that the end fitting assembly may be adapted to satisfy more than one as found nuclear reactor end fitting configuration..
It is also envisioned that the end closure fitting is tubular and includes an inboard end portion and an outboard end portion. The inboard end portion overlays and is secured to the cylindrical end fitting hub. The at least one fastener may pass through the inboard end portion of the end closure fitting and the cylindrical end fitting hub.
In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, the main tube portion may have a feeder mount positioned inboard and adjacent to the cylindrical end fitting hub. The end closure fitting has an inboard end surface portion depending therefrom. The inboard end surface portion and the cylindrical end fitting hub are axially cooperable for releasably securing the end closure fitting with the cylindrical end fitting hub at a predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount of the main tube portion.
It is envisaged that the second aspect of the invention relates to an end fitting that simulates both the inside and the outside geometry as the as found end fitting geometry. Such an end fitting is considered a target end fitting in the mock-up assembly suitable for use to test new tooling for purposes of fuelling the reactor, fuel channel inspection, fuel channel replacement, tool training and tool proving associated with any operation to be performed on a fuel channel.
The cylindrical end fitting hub may include an outboard end surface portion.
A plurality of radially spaced apart locating apertures may be located in at least one of the cylindrical end fitting hub at the outboard end surface portion thereof and the end closure fitting at the inboard surface portion thereof. The at least one locating projection extends axially outward from the other one of the outboard end surface portion away from the cylindrical end fitting hub and the inboard end surface portion away from the end closure fitting. The at least one locating projection is receivable within a predetermined one of the locating apertures for positioning the end closure fitting at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the main tube portion and the feeder mount. In this manner, the end closure fitting may be releasably secured
It is also envisioned that the end closure fitting is tubular and includes an inboard end portion and an outboard end portion. The inboard end portion overlays and is secured to the cylindrical end fitting hub. The at least one fastener may pass through the inboard end portion of the end closure fitting and the cylindrical end fitting hub.
In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, the main tube portion may have a feeder mount positioned inboard and adjacent to the cylindrical end fitting hub. The end closure fitting has an inboard end surface portion depending therefrom. The inboard end surface portion and the cylindrical end fitting hub are axially cooperable for releasably securing the end closure fitting with the cylindrical end fitting hub at a predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount of the main tube portion.
It is envisaged that the second aspect of the invention relates to an end fitting that simulates both the inside and the outside geometry as the as found end fitting geometry. Such an end fitting is considered a target end fitting in the mock-up assembly suitable for use to test new tooling for purposes of fuelling the reactor, fuel channel inspection, fuel channel replacement, tool training and tool proving associated with any operation to be performed on a fuel channel.
The cylindrical end fitting hub may include an outboard end surface portion.
A plurality of radially spaced apart locating apertures may be located in at least one of the cylindrical end fitting hub at the outboard end surface portion thereof and the end closure fitting at the inboard surface portion thereof. The at least one locating projection extends axially outward from the other one of the outboard end surface portion away from the cylindrical end fitting hub and the inboard end surface portion away from the end closure fitting. The at least one locating projection is receivable within a predetermined one of the locating apertures for positioning the end closure fitting at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the main tube portion and the feeder mount. In this manner, the end closure fitting may be releasably secured
- 5 -with the end fitting hub permitting the adaptation of this end fitting for multiple as found nuclear reactor end fitting configurations.
Adjacent ones of the locating apertures may have predetermined radial distances therebetween for providing a plurality of predetermined angular orientations for the end closure fitting. The predetermined angular orientation is selectable from the plurality of predetermined angular orientations.
At least one spacer may be coupled with at least one of the inboard end portion and the outboard end portion of the main tube portion for extending the length of the main tube portion. The main tube portion may be segmented and the at least one spacer coupled with the main tube portion between adjacent segments of the main tube portion. In an alternative aspect of the invention, the main tube portion is a first main tube portion that is interchangeable with a second main tube portion having a different axial length than the first main tube portion.
Accordingly, the length of the main tube portion may be extended to simulate the length of the end fitting for the particular nuclear reactor that is being simulated by the mock-up assembly. This embodiment of the end fitting assembly provides for any target end fitting length in the nuclear reactor mock-up assembly.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a better understanding of the nature and objects of the present invention reference may be had by way of example to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a mock-up assembly for simulating as found reactor end fitting conditions;
Figure 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a first end of the mock-up assembly shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of the dummy lattice tube partial sleeve;
Figure 4 is a plan view of the dummy lattice tube partial sleeve;
Adjacent ones of the locating apertures may have predetermined radial distances therebetween for providing a plurality of predetermined angular orientations for the end closure fitting. The predetermined angular orientation is selectable from the plurality of predetermined angular orientations.
At least one spacer may be coupled with at least one of the inboard end portion and the outboard end portion of the main tube portion for extending the length of the main tube portion. The main tube portion may be segmented and the at least one spacer coupled with the main tube portion between adjacent segments of the main tube portion. In an alternative aspect of the invention, the main tube portion is a first main tube portion that is interchangeable with a second main tube portion having a different axial length than the first main tube portion.
Accordingly, the length of the main tube portion may be extended to simulate the length of the end fitting for the particular nuclear reactor that is being simulated by the mock-up assembly. This embodiment of the end fitting assembly provides for any target end fitting length in the nuclear reactor mock-up assembly.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a better understanding of the nature and objects of the present invention reference may be had by way of example to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a mock-up assembly for simulating as found reactor end fitting conditions;
Figure 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a first end of the mock-up assembly shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of the dummy lattice tube partial sleeve;
Figure 4 is a plan view of the dummy lattice tube partial sleeve;
- 6 -Figure 4A is a front view of the dummy lattice tube partial sleeve of Figure 4;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of the dummy end fitting;
Figure 6 is a sectional side view showing the interconnection between the dummy lattice tube partial sleeve and the dummy end fitting;
Figure 7 is a perspective view of a target end fitting assembly;
Figure 8A is a perspective view of an axial securing mechanism for a target end fitting assembly;
Figure 8B is another perspective view of the axial securing mechanism of Figure 8A;
Figure 9 is a front perspective view of the outboard face of an end fitting hub for a target end fitting assembly; and, Figure 10 is a side sectional view of a dummy end fitting assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to Figure 1 there is shown a mock-up assembly 10 for simulating as found nuclear reactor end fitting conditions. The mock-up assembly 10 comprises two spaced apart platforms 12 each having base framing 14 for supporting end fitting assemblies 32, 34 in a corresponding 3 X 3 end fitting assembly configuration 16.
The platforms 12 of the mock-up assembly 10 are interconnected by an axially extending weldment 18. It should be understood that any number of end fitting assemblies 32, 34 may be utilized within the realm of the present invention.
The end fitting assemblies 32, 34 may be disposed in a variety of configurations 16, such as, for example, 4 X 4, 3 X 6, and 4 X 8 end fitting assembly configurations.
Also, it should be appreciated that the distance between the end fitting assemblies 32, represents the distance across the calandria core of the nuclear reactor being simulated by the mock-up assembly. The 3 X 3 end fitting assembly configurations 16 are also vertically adjustable by means of a vertical guide post 104 and three screw jacks 106 (only one of which is shown) for vertically lifting the platform 12 relative to the base frame 14. The screw jacks are operable by a single motor and gear box (not shown).
Figure 5 is a perspective view of the dummy end fitting;
Figure 6 is a sectional side view showing the interconnection between the dummy lattice tube partial sleeve and the dummy end fitting;
Figure 7 is a perspective view of a target end fitting assembly;
Figure 8A is a perspective view of an axial securing mechanism for a target end fitting assembly;
Figure 8B is another perspective view of the axial securing mechanism of Figure 8A;
Figure 9 is a front perspective view of the outboard face of an end fitting hub for a target end fitting assembly; and, Figure 10 is a side sectional view of a dummy end fitting assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to Figure 1 there is shown a mock-up assembly 10 for simulating as found nuclear reactor end fitting conditions. The mock-up assembly 10 comprises two spaced apart platforms 12 each having base framing 14 for supporting end fitting assemblies 32, 34 in a corresponding 3 X 3 end fitting assembly configuration 16.
The platforms 12 of the mock-up assembly 10 are interconnected by an axially extending weldment 18. It should be understood that any number of end fitting assemblies 32, 34 may be utilized within the realm of the present invention.
The end fitting assemblies 32, 34 may be disposed in a variety of configurations 16, such as, for example, 4 X 4, 3 X 6, and 4 X 8 end fitting assembly configurations.
Also, it should be appreciated that the distance between the end fitting assemblies 32, represents the distance across the calandria core of the nuclear reactor being simulated by the mock-up assembly. The 3 X 3 end fitting assembly configurations 16 are also vertically adjustable by means of a vertical guide post 104 and three screw jacks 106 (only one of which is shown) for vertically lifting the platform 12 relative to the base frame 14. The screw jacks are operable by a single motor and gear box (not shown).
- 7 -Referring now to Figures 1 and 2, each of the 3 X 3 end fitting assembly configurations 16 is coupled with the mock-up assembly 10 in a front support wall 20 and a rear support wall 22 of the mock-up assembly. Walls 20 and 22 comprise rectangular plates in the embodiment shown. The front support wall 20 is spaced apart from the rear support wall 22 by four tube sheet spacer bars 24 located in the corners of the walls 20, 22. Each spacer bar 24 has threaded end portions that pass through the support walls 20, 22 and are secured in place by nuts 26. The front support wall 20 and the rear support wall 22 simulate the locations of the inner and outer tube sheets of the calandria of a nuclear reactor.
Each of the front support wall 20 and the rear support wall 22 respectively comprise front and rear circular openings 28, 30. The front and rear circular openings 28, 30 are aligned relative to each other and represent respectively the outer and inner tube sheets bores of a nuclear reactor.
Extending outwardly of the front support wall 20 are a plurality of dummy end fitting assemblies 32 and a single target end fitting assembly 34. The target end fitting assembly 34 is centrally located to the dummy end fitting assemblies 32. It should be understood that the relative positioning of the target end fitting assembly 34 with the dummy end fitting assemblies 32 may vary and that more than one target end fitting assembly 34 may be utilized.
The target end fitting assembly 34 has a target end fitting bellows 36 and is received within a full lattice tube 38 extending completely between the front support wall 20 and the rear support wall 22. The target end fitting assembly 34 is mounted in position relative to the front support wall 20 by positioning assembly 108 attached to each of the front support wall 20 and the target end fitting assembly 34. The lattice tube 38 carries journal bearings allowing the target end fitting assembly 34 to be mounted within the lattice tube. The target end fitting assembly 34 has an inner portion (not shown) extending within the lattice tube 38 that is connected to a pressure tube that in turn extends within a calandria tube 40 spanning the gap between the 3 X
3 end fitting assembly configurations 16. As shown in Figure 1, the calandria tube 40 has a bell shaped end portion 42 held in place with the end fitting assembly
Each of the front support wall 20 and the rear support wall 22 respectively comprise front and rear circular openings 28, 30. The front and rear circular openings 28, 30 are aligned relative to each other and represent respectively the outer and inner tube sheets bores of a nuclear reactor.
Extending outwardly of the front support wall 20 are a plurality of dummy end fitting assemblies 32 and a single target end fitting assembly 34. The target end fitting assembly 34 is centrally located to the dummy end fitting assemblies 32. It should be understood that the relative positioning of the target end fitting assembly 34 with the dummy end fitting assemblies 32 may vary and that more than one target end fitting assembly 34 may be utilized.
The target end fitting assembly 34 has a target end fitting bellows 36 and is received within a full lattice tube 38 extending completely between the front support wall 20 and the rear support wall 22. The target end fitting assembly 34 is mounted in position relative to the front support wall 20 by positioning assembly 108 attached to each of the front support wall 20 and the target end fitting assembly 34. The lattice tube 38 carries journal bearings allowing the target end fitting assembly 34 to be mounted within the lattice tube. The target end fitting assembly 34 has an inner portion (not shown) extending within the lattice tube 38 that is connected to a pressure tube that in turn extends within a calandria tube 40 spanning the gap between the 3 X
3 end fitting assembly configurations 16. As shown in Figure 1, the calandria tube 40 has a bell shaped end portion 42 held in place with the end fitting assembly
- 8 -configurations 16 by a calandria tube insert 44 within the rear support wall representing the inner lattice tube sheet. Testing of tooling is done on the target end fitting assemblies 34 for the purposes of fueling the reactor, fuel channel inspection, fuel channel replacement, tool training and tool proving associated with any operation to be performed on a fuel channel. The target end fitting assembly 34 has the same geometry as the as found end fittings in the nuclear reactor being simulated.
Referring to Figure 7, the target end fitting assembly 34 includes a main tube portion 48 having an inboard end portion 52 and an opposing outboard end portion 110 at opposite ends of the main tube portion 48. The outboard end portion 110 is of uniform diameter to the main tube portion 48 and has a cylindrical end fitting hub 118 depending therefrom. An end closure fitting 120 is removably secured in axially positional relation to the end fitting hub 118 by means of an axial securing mechanism 122. The axial securing mechanism 122 is discussed in greater detail hereinafter.
As shown in Figure 7, a feeder mount 50 is coupled with the outboard end portion 110. The feeder mount 50 is secured inboard and adjacent to the cylindrical end fitting hub 118 at a predetermined radial orientation on the outboard end portion 110. The end closure fitting 120 is tubular and is coupled with the end fitting hub 118 at a predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount 50 and the main tube portion 48. The main tube portion 48 has a liner (not shown) extending axially within and oriented within the interior of the main tube portion 48.
The end closure fitting has interrupted threads 166 depending from an interior surface portion 168 thereof for securing a closure plug (not shown in Figures) in the end closure fitting 120. The end closure fitting 120 is secured with the cylindrical end fitting 118 at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount 50 on the main tube portion 48 and the liner orientation within the main tube portion 48. The interrupted threads 166 have a predetermined thread orientation when the end closure fitting 120 is secured with the cylindrical end fitting hub 118 at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount, the liner and the main tube portion.
Referring to Figure 7, the target end fitting assembly 34 includes a main tube portion 48 having an inboard end portion 52 and an opposing outboard end portion 110 at opposite ends of the main tube portion 48. The outboard end portion 110 is of uniform diameter to the main tube portion 48 and has a cylindrical end fitting hub 118 depending therefrom. An end closure fitting 120 is removably secured in axially positional relation to the end fitting hub 118 by means of an axial securing mechanism 122. The axial securing mechanism 122 is discussed in greater detail hereinafter.
As shown in Figure 7, a feeder mount 50 is coupled with the outboard end portion 110. The feeder mount 50 is secured inboard and adjacent to the cylindrical end fitting hub 118 at a predetermined radial orientation on the outboard end portion 110. The end closure fitting 120 is tubular and is coupled with the end fitting hub 118 at a predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount 50 and the main tube portion 48. The main tube portion 48 has a liner (not shown) extending axially within and oriented within the interior of the main tube portion 48.
The end closure fitting has interrupted threads 166 depending from an interior surface portion 168 thereof for securing a closure plug (not shown in Figures) in the end closure fitting 120. The end closure fitting 120 is secured with the cylindrical end fitting 118 at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount 50 on the main tube portion 48 and the liner orientation within the main tube portion 48. The interrupted threads 166 have a predetermined thread orientation when the end closure fitting 120 is secured with the cylindrical end fitting hub 118 at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount, the liner and the main tube portion.
- 9 -The interrupted threads 166 are an internal component of the end closure fitting 120. The liner is an internal component of the main tube portion 48.
In the target end fitting assembly 34, the orientation of the threads 166 and the liner is to be considered in securing the end closure fitting 120 with the cylindrical end portion 118.
Accordingly, the end closure fitting 120 may not simply be rotated to orient the end closure fitting 120 relative to the main tube portion 48 in accordance with the radial position of the feeder mount 50 and the liner orientation. In the preferred embodiment, the threads 166, the liner, and the feeder mount 50 are properly angularly oriented to represent the geometry of the target end fitting of the simulated end fitting of the nuclear reactor. One means of accomplishing this angular orientation between the threads 166, liner and feeder mount 50 is by using axial securing mechanism 122.
The axial securing mechanism 122 for the target end fitting assembly 34 is shown in Figure 7 and is shown in detail in Figures 8A, 8B and 9. The cylindrical end fitting hub 118 has an outboard end surface portion 144 depending therefrom and the end closure fitting 120 has an inboard end surface portion 146 depending therefrom.
A plurality of radially spaced apart locating apertures 148 extend axially into the cylindrical end fitting hub 118 away from the outboard end surface portion 144 thereof. A locating projection 150 extends axially outward from the inboard end surface portion 146 of the end closure fitting 120. The locating projection 150 is receivable within a predetermined one of the locating apertures 148 for positioning the end closure fitting 120 at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the main tube portion 48 and the feeder mount 50 and for axially cooperating the inboard end surface portion 146 and the outboard end surface portion 144.
As shown in Figure 9, adjacent ones of the locating apertures 148 have predetermined radial distances therebetween which provide a number of angular relationships between each aperture 148 and the feeder mount 50. The locating projection 150 may be received in any one of the locating apertures 148 for coupling the end closure fitting 120 with the end fitting hub 118 at an angular orientation which provides proper alignment between the threads 166, liner, feeder mount 50 and main tube portion 48. In this manner, the end closure fitting 120 may be angularly
In the target end fitting assembly 34, the orientation of the threads 166 and the liner is to be considered in securing the end closure fitting 120 with the cylindrical end portion 118.
Accordingly, the end closure fitting 120 may not simply be rotated to orient the end closure fitting 120 relative to the main tube portion 48 in accordance with the radial position of the feeder mount 50 and the liner orientation. In the preferred embodiment, the threads 166, the liner, and the feeder mount 50 are properly angularly oriented to represent the geometry of the target end fitting of the simulated end fitting of the nuclear reactor. One means of accomplishing this angular orientation between the threads 166, liner and feeder mount 50 is by using axial securing mechanism 122.
The axial securing mechanism 122 for the target end fitting assembly 34 is shown in Figure 7 and is shown in detail in Figures 8A, 8B and 9. The cylindrical end fitting hub 118 has an outboard end surface portion 144 depending therefrom and the end closure fitting 120 has an inboard end surface portion 146 depending therefrom.
A plurality of radially spaced apart locating apertures 148 extend axially into the cylindrical end fitting hub 118 away from the outboard end surface portion 144 thereof. A locating projection 150 extends axially outward from the inboard end surface portion 146 of the end closure fitting 120. The locating projection 150 is receivable within a predetermined one of the locating apertures 148 for positioning the end closure fitting 120 at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the main tube portion 48 and the feeder mount 50 and for axially cooperating the inboard end surface portion 146 and the outboard end surface portion 144.
As shown in Figure 9, adjacent ones of the locating apertures 148 have predetermined radial distances therebetween which provide a number of angular relationships between each aperture 148 and the feeder mount 50. The locating projection 150 may be received in any one of the locating apertures 148 for coupling the end closure fitting 120 with the end fitting hub 118 at an angular orientation which provides proper alignment between the threads 166, liner, feeder mount 50 and main tube portion 48. In this manner, the end closure fitting 120 may be angularly
- 10 -positioned for simulating the as found angular orientation of the target end fitting in the nuclear reactor.
The inboard end portion 128 of the end closure fitting 120 has a through-bore 153 passing therethrough. A fastening mechanism such as a cap screw 152 extends from a through-bore 153 passing through the inboard end portion 128 and inboard end surface portion 146 into one of a plurality of fastening apertures 154 extending axially into the end fitting hub 118 away from the outboard end surface portion 144.
The fastening apertures 154 are positioned radially about the outboard end surface portion 144 to permit fastening of the end closure fitting 120 to the end fitting hub 118 after the projection 150 has been received in any one of the locating apertures 148. The cap screw 152 locks the projection 150 within a predetermined one of the locating apertures 148 and secures the end closure fitting 120 with the end fitting hub 118.
A spigot 155 depends from the outboard end surface portion 144 of the end fitting hub 118 and extends outwardly away from the outboard end surface portion 144. A spigot cooperating surface portion 156 depends from the inboard end surface portion 146 of the end closure fitting 120. The spigot 155 and the spigot cooperating surface portion 156 cooperate to restrain the cylindrical end fitting hub 118 against incidental rotational forces between the cylindrical end fitting hub 118 and the end closure fitting 120 about the locating projection 150 when the projection 150 is being received within the predetermined one of the locating apertures 148.
In the target end fitting assembly 34, one or more spacers 158 may be coupled with the main tube portion 48 for extending the length of the main tube portion 48.
Spacer 158 may be of any suitable width. In Figure 7, the main tube portion 48 is segmented and a spacer 158 is coupled between segments of the main tube portion 48.
The spacer 158 may also be coupled with one or both of the inboard end portion and the outboard end portion 110 to extend the length of the main tube portion 48.
Alternatively, the length of the main tube portion 48 may be changed by interchanging the main tube portion 48 with another main tube portion having a different axial length. The length of the main tube portion may be adjusted in a number of ways that are within the purview of the present invention.
The inboard end portion 128 of the end closure fitting 120 has a through-bore 153 passing therethrough. A fastening mechanism such as a cap screw 152 extends from a through-bore 153 passing through the inboard end portion 128 and inboard end surface portion 146 into one of a plurality of fastening apertures 154 extending axially into the end fitting hub 118 away from the outboard end surface portion 144.
The fastening apertures 154 are positioned radially about the outboard end surface portion 144 to permit fastening of the end closure fitting 120 to the end fitting hub 118 after the projection 150 has been received in any one of the locating apertures 148. The cap screw 152 locks the projection 150 within a predetermined one of the locating apertures 148 and secures the end closure fitting 120 with the end fitting hub 118.
A spigot 155 depends from the outboard end surface portion 144 of the end fitting hub 118 and extends outwardly away from the outboard end surface portion 144. A spigot cooperating surface portion 156 depends from the inboard end surface portion 146 of the end closure fitting 120. The spigot 155 and the spigot cooperating surface portion 156 cooperate to restrain the cylindrical end fitting hub 118 against incidental rotational forces between the cylindrical end fitting hub 118 and the end closure fitting 120 about the locating projection 150 when the projection 150 is being received within the predetermined one of the locating apertures 148.
In the target end fitting assembly 34, one or more spacers 158 may be coupled with the main tube portion 48 for extending the length of the main tube portion 48.
Spacer 158 may be of any suitable width. In Figure 7, the main tube portion 48 is segmented and a spacer 158 is coupled between segments of the main tube portion 48.
The spacer 158 may also be coupled with one or both of the inboard end portion and the outboard end portion 110 to extend the length of the main tube portion 48.
Alternatively, the length of the main tube portion 48 may be changed by interchanging the main tube portion 48 with another main tube portion having a different axial length. The length of the main tube portion may be adjusted in a number of ways that are within the purview of the present invention.
- 11 -A rolled joint hub 160 is coupled with the inboard end portion 52 of the main tube portion 48 of the target end fitting assembly 34. As shown in Figure 7, the inboard end portion 52 has a collar portion 162 which has an interior diameter greater than the exterior diameter of an outboard end portion 164 of the rolled joint hub 160.
Accordingly, the outboard end portion 164 of the rolled joint hub 160 is receivable within the collar portion 162 for securing the rolled joint hub 160 to the inboard end portion 162. A spacer 158 may be coupled with the main tube portion 48 between the main tube portion 48 and the rolled joint hub 160. Therefore, it is not necessary for the rolled joint hub 160 to be coupled directly with the main tube portion 48.
In this embodiment, the collar portion 162 would depend from an inboard end portion of the spacer 158 to receive the rolled joint hub 160.
As shown in the mock-up assembly 10 of Figure 1, surrounding the target end fitting assembly 34 in the mock-up assembly 10 are eight dummy end fitting assemblies 32. Dummy end fitting assemblies 32 are representative of the end fitting geometry relative to the target end fitting in the reactor environment and are available to react the forces associated with tools used on a target end fitting assembly. That is tooling may clamp onto the adjacent dummy end fitting assemblies to provide the end fittings needed to react the tooling being tested on the target end fitting assembly 34.
Referring now to Figure 5, there is shown a perspective view of one of the dummy end fitting assemblies 32. It will be noted that this dummy end fitting assembly 32 has a main tubular portion 48 which carries at one end thereof the feeder mount 50. The dummy end fitting assembly 32 includes an inboard end portion 52 of uniform diameter having at least one first locating aperture 54 passing therethrough.
In the embodiment shown, three sets of paired first locating apertures 54, 56 and 58 pass through the inboard end portion 52. The paired first locating apertures 54, 56 and 58 are located in different angular positions or first radial aperture positions about the inboard end portion 52 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 and are also located axially at different locations along the length of the inboard end portion 52 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32. These first locating apertures 54, 56 and 58 are made in the inboard end portion 52 of dummy end fitting assembly 32 so as to represent
Accordingly, the outboard end portion 164 of the rolled joint hub 160 is receivable within the collar portion 162 for securing the rolled joint hub 160 to the inboard end portion 162. A spacer 158 may be coupled with the main tube portion 48 between the main tube portion 48 and the rolled joint hub 160. Therefore, it is not necessary for the rolled joint hub 160 to be coupled directly with the main tube portion 48.
In this embodiment, the collar portion 162 would depend from an inboard end portion of the spacer 158 to receive the rolled joint hub 160.
As shown in the mock-up assembly 10 of Figure 1, surrounding the target end fitting assembly 34 in the mock-up assembly 10 are eight dummy end fitting assemblies 32. Dummy end fitting assemblies 32 are representative of the end fitting geometry relative to the target end fitting in the reactor environment and are available to react the forces associated with tools used on a target end fitting assembly. That is tooling may clamp onto the adjacent dummy end fitting assemblies to provide the end fittings needed to react the tooling being tested on the target end fitting assembly 34.
Referring now to Figure 5, there is shown a perspective view of one of the dummy end fitting assemblies 32. It will be noted that this dummy end fitting assembly 32 has a main tubular portion 48 which carries at one end thereof the feeder mount 50. The dummy end fitting assembly 32 includes an inboard end portion 52 of uniform diameter having at least one first locating aperture 54 passing therethrough.
In the embodiment shown, three sets of paired first locating apertures 54, 56 and 58 pass through the inboard end portion 52. The paired first locating apertures 54, 56 and 58 are located in different angular positions or first radial aperture positions about the inboard end portion 52 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 and are also located axially at different locations along the length of the inboard end portion 52 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32. These first locating apertures 54, 56 and 58 are made in the inboard end portion 52 of dummy end fitting assembly 32 so as to represent
- 12 -lengths of end fittings for differing reactor environments. The purpose of the first locating aperture sets 54, 56 and 58 is subsequently described.
Referring to Figure 10, dummy end fitting assembly 32 also includes an outboard end portion 110 of uniform diameter having at least one second locating aperture 112 passing therethrough. The outboard end portion 110 is located at an opposite end of the main tube portion 48 from the inboard end portion 52 and has a cylindrical end fitting hub 118 depending therefrom. An end closure fitting 120 is removably secured in axially positional relation to the end fitting hub 118 by means of an axial securing mechanism 122, such as a fastener. The end closure fitting 120 is discussed in greater detail hereinafter. In the embodiment shown, three sets of paired second locating apertures 112, 114, 116 pass through the outboard end portion 110.
The paired second locating apertures 112, 114, 116 are located in different angular positions or second radial aperture positions about the outboard end portion 52 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 and are also located axially at different locations along the length of the outboard end portion 110 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32. The second radial aperture positions are located relative to the first radial aperture positions of the first locating apertures for providing a predetermined angular orientation for the second locating apertures 112, 114, 116 when the axial length of the main tube portion 48 is fixed using the first locating apertures 54, 56, 58.
As shown in Figure 10, the feeder mount 50 is coupled with the outboard end portion 110 and is located by one set of the second locating apertures a predetermined axial distance from the end closure fitting 120. In a preferred embodiment, the axial distance extends between an outboard end face 124 of end closure fitting 120 and a center 126 of the feeder mount 50. Fasteners 51 pass through the feeder mount into second locating apertures 116 to secure the feeder mount 50 to the outboard end portion 110 at the second locating apertures 116.
The first locating apertures 54, 56, 58 represent the overall axial length of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 in the mock-up assembly 10. For simulating as found nuclear reactor conditions, the feeder mount 50 is coupled with the outboard end portion 110 at the appropriate axial location relative to the end closure fitting 120
Referring to Figure 10, dummy end fitting assembly 32 also includes an outboard end portion 110 of uniform diameter having at least one second locating aperture 112 passing therethrough. The outboard end portion 110 is located at an opposite end of the main tube portion 48 from the inboard end portion 52 and has a cylindrical end fitting hub 118 depending therefrom. An end closure fitting 120 is removably secured in axially positional relation to the end fitting hub 118 by means of an axial securing mechanism 122, such as a fastener. The end closure fitting 120 is discussed in greater detail hereinafter. In the embodiment shown, three sets of paired second locating apertures 112, 114, 116 pass through the outboard end portion 110.
The paired second locating apertures 112, 114, 116 are located in different angular positions or second radial aperture positions about the outboard end portion 52 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 and are also located axially at different locations along the length of the outboard end portion 110 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32. The second radial aperture positions are located relative to the first radial aperture positions of the first locating apertures for providing a predetermined angular orientation for the second locating apertures 112, 114, 116 when the axial length of the main tube portion 48 is fixed using the first locating apertures 54, 56, 58.
As shown in Figure 10, the feeder mount 50 is coupled with the outboard end portion 110 and is located by one set of the second locating apertures a predetermined axial distance from the end closure fitting 120. In a preferred embodiment, the axial distance extends between an outboard end face 124 of end closure fitting 120 and a center 126 of the feeder mount 50. Fasteners 51 pass through the feeder mount into second locating apertures 116 to secure the feeder mount 50 to the outboard end portion 110 at the second locating apertures 116.
The first locating apertures 54, 56, 58 represent the overall axial length of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 in the mock-up assembly 10. For simulating as found nuclear reactor conditions, the feeder mount 50 is coupled with the outboard end portion 110 at the appropriate axial location relative to the end closure fitting 120
- 13-using second locating apertures 112, 114, 116. The axial length of the main tube portion 48 is set using one of the sets of first locating apertures 54, 56, 58. The radial positions of the second locating apertures 112, 114, 116 relates to corresponding ones of the radial positions of the sets of first locating apertures 54, 56, 58 to allow the feeder mount 50 to have a predetermined angular orientation relative to the end closure fitting when the axial length of the main tube portion 48 is fixed using the first locating apertures 54, 56, 58.
In the dummy end fitting assembly 32, the end closure fitting 120 is tubular and has no internal components that have a critical angle for properly simulating end fitting geometry. Accordingly, the end closure fitting 120 of dummy end fitting 32 may be rotated to any angular orientation relative the main tube portion 48.
The angular positioning allowances for the end closure fitting 120 on the end fitting hub 118 allow the end closure fitting 120 to be oriented relative to any one of a plurality of feeder mount positions in the dummy end fitting assembly 32.
The end closure fitting 120 has an inboard end portion 128 and an outboard end portion 130. The interior diameter of the inboard end portion 128 is greater than the exterior diameter of the end fitting hub 118. Accordingly, the inboard end portion 128 overlays the end fitting hub 118. Using the axial securing mechanism 122, the end closure fitting 120 is secured in axial positional relation to the end fitting hub 118.
A closure attachment plate 132 spans across the end closure fitting 120 at the inboard end portion 128 adjacent the cylindrical end fitting hub 118. A closure cap 134 is positioned in the outboard end portion 130 of the end closure fitting 120. The inboard end portion 128 has a flange 136 of increased diameter that overlays a portion of the cylindrical end fitting hub 118. The increased diameter of the flange 136 forms a seat 138 for the closure attachment plate 132 whereby the closure attachment plate 132 is held in seat 138 abutting an end rim portion 140 of the cylindrical end fitting hub 118.
A threaded member 142 extends between the closure attachment plate 132 and the closure cap 134 for securing the closure cap 132 in the end closure fitting 120.
Referring now to Figures 2, 3, and 4 there is shown a plurality of cylindrical sleeves 60 which function as a dummy lattice tube. Each sleeve 60 is mounted to the
In the dummy end fitting assembly 32, the end closure fitting 120 is tubular and has no internal components that have a critical angle for properly simulating end fitting geometry. Accordingly, the end closure fitting 120 of dummy end fitting 32 may be rotated to any angular orientation relative the main tube portion 48.
The angular positioning allowances for the end closure fitting 120 on the end fitting hub 118 allow the end closure fitting 120 to be oriented relative to any one of a plurality of feeder mount positions in the dummy end fitting assembly 32.
The end closure fitting 120 has an inboard end portion 128 and an outboard end portion 130. The interior diameter of the inboard end portion 128 is greater than the exterior diameter of the end fitting hub 118. Accordingly, the inboard end portion 128 overlays the end fitting hub 118. Using the axial securing mechanism 122, the end closure fitting 120 is secured in axial positional relation to the end fitting hub 118.
A closure attachment plate 132 spans across the end closure fitting 120 at the inboard end portion 128 adjacent the cylindrical end fitting hub 118. A closure cap 134 is positioned in the outboard end portion 130 of the end closure fitting 120. The inboard end portion 128 has a flange 136 of increased diameter that overlays a portion of the cylindrical end fitting hub 118. The increased diameter of the flange 136 forms a seat 138 for the closure attachment plate 132 whereby the closure attachment plate 132 is held in seat 138 abutting an end rim portion 140 of the cylindrical end fitting hub 118.
A threaded member 142 extends between the closure attachment plate 132 and the closure cap 134 for securing the closure cap 132 in the end closure fitting 120.
Referring now to Figures 2, 3, and 4 there is shown a plurality of cylindrical sleeves 60 which function as a dummy lattice tube. Each sleeve 60 is mounted to the
- 14 -rear support wall 22 by lugs 62 screwed into the rear support wall 22. The sleeve 60 includes a rim or rims 64 over which the ear of the lugs 62 fit so as to secure the sleeve 60 relative to the rear support wall 22. The sleeve 60 has finger flanges 76 that pass through and engage a corresponding rear circular opening 30 in the rear support wall 22. In this manner, the sleeve 60 is held in axial alignment with the front circular opening 28 of the front support wall. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the sleeve extends from the rear support wall 22 towards the front support wall 20 and is spaced in non-contacting relation away from the support wall 20.
As further shown in Figures 1 and 2, the dummy end fitting assemblies 32 are shown to be telescopically received within the sleeve 60. In this regard, inboard end portion 52 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 has a uniform diameter and does not have a reduced diameter that is joinable with a pressure tube as is present in an end fitting assembly used in a nuclear reactor environment. The inside diameter of the sleeve 60 is slightly greater than the outside diameter of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 along inboard end portion 52. As shown in Figure 2, the dummy end fitting assembly 32 passes through the front circular opening 28 into the area between the front and rear support walls 20, 22 and is moveable axially and telescopically into and relative with the sleeve 60.
Also as shown in Figure 2 each of the dummy end fitting assemblies has a dummy bellows 66 surrounding the dummy end fitting assembly 32 adjacent the front end of the front support wall 20.
This telescopic arrangement of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 within the sleeve 60 eliminates the need for a lattice tube to extend completely between the front support wall 20 and the rear support wall 22 and eliminates the use of bearings in the lattice tube. The axial telescopic positional relation between the sleeve 60 and the dummy end fitting assembly 32 allows for the positioning of the fitting assemblies 32 on the mock-up assembly 10 in locations corresponding to as found nuclear reactor end fitting conditions.
Referring to Figures 2 through 5, the relative positioning and locking of dummy end fitting assembly 32 with the sleeve 60 is shown. Each of the sleeves
As further shown in Figures 1 and 2, the dummy end fitting assemblies 32 are shown to be telescopically received within the sleeve 60. In this regard, inboard end portion 52 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 has a uniform diameter and does not have a reduced diameter that is joinable with a pressure tube as is present in an end fitting assembly used in a nuclear reactor environment. The inside diameter of the sleeve 60 is slightly greater than the outside diameter of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 along inboard end portion 52. As shown in Figure 2, the dummy end fitting assembly 32 passes through the front circular opening 28 into the area between the front and rear support walls 20, 22 and is moveable axially and telescopically into and relative with the sleeve 60.
Also as shown in Figure 2 each of the dummy end fitting assemblies has a dummy bellows 66 surrounding the dummy end fitting assembly 32 adjacent the front end of the front support wall 20.
This telescopic arrangement of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 within the sleeve 60 eliminates the need for a lattice tube to extend completely between the front support wall 20 and the rear support wall 22 and eliminates the use of bearings in the lattice tube. The axial telescopic positional relation between the sleeve 60 and the dummy end fitting assembly 32 allows for the positioning of the fitting assemblies 32 on the mock-up assembly 10 in locations corresponding to as found nuclear reactor end fitting conditions.
Referring to Figures 2 through 5, the relative positioning and locking of dummy end fitting assembly 32 with the sleeve 60 is shown. Each of the sleeves
- 15 -has associated with it a corresponding dummy end fitting assembly 32. Each sleeve 60 has a tubular portion 68 extending back from the leading edge portion 70 of the sleeve 60 towards the rear support wall 22. The tubular portion has two diametrically opposed guide slots 72 that are cut through the sleeve 62 and extend back from the leading edge surface portion 70 towards the rear support wall 22. The slots 72 do not extend the complete length of the sleeve 62.
Each of the dummy end fitting assemblies 32 has a protrusion extending there from in the form of a socket head cap screw 74. In Figure 6, the socket head cap screw 74 is threadably secured within one of the apertures of the sets of apertures 56.
It should be appreciated that while Figure 6 and the description relate to screw 74 threadably secured within one of the apertures 56, the screw 74 could also be fastened to one of either of apertures 54 or 58 depending on the nuclear reactor design that is being simulated by the dummy end fitting assembly 32. The aperture that the socket head cap screw 74 is located in is the aperture 56a of the aperture set 56 furthest away from the inboard end portion 52 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32. The socket head cap screw 74 is surrounded by a washer 78 such that the washer 78 and the socket head cap screw 74 are received within the guide slots 72. During the assembly of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 with the sleeve 60, the dummy end fitting assembly 32 is passed through the front circular opening 28 in the front support wall 20. The socket head cap screw 74 and the washer 78 are then inserted into the aperture 56 furthest from the end 53 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32.
Thereafter, the dummy end fitting assembly 32 is rotated to align the cap screw and washer 78 with the guide slot 72. The dummy end fitting assembly 32 may then be telescopically inserted into the sleeve 60 in proper angular positioning. This arrangement of the guide slot 72 and the socket head cap screw 74 and washer combination restricts the angular displacement or rotation of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 relative to the sleeve 60.
A locking device 80 is located between the front and rear support walls 20, 22 and is attached to the sleeve 60. The locking device 80 has a securing portion or a shoulder screw 82 that is adapted to be rotated and secured into the leading or outboard aperture 56b of the set of apertures 56 found in the dummy end fitting
Each of the dummy end fitting assemblies 32 has a protrusion extending there from in the form of a socket head cap screw 74. In Figure 6, the socket head cap screw 74 is threadably secured within one of the apertures of the sets of apertures 56.
It should be appreciated that while Figure 6 and the description relate to screw 74 threadably secured within one of the apertures 56, the screw 74 could also be fastened to one of either of apertures 54 or 58 depending on the nuclear reactor design that is being simulated by the dummy end fitting assembly 32. The aperture that the socket head cap screw 74 is located in is the aperture 56a of the aperture set 56 furthest away from the inboard end portion 52 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32. The socket head cap screw 74 is surrounded by a washer 78 such that the washer 78 and the socket head cap screw 74 are received within the guide slots 72. During the assembly of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 with the sleeve 60, the dummy end fitting assembly 32 is passed through the front circular opening 28 in the front support wall 20. The socket head cap screw 74 and the washer 78 are then inserted into the aperture 56 furthest from the end 53 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32.
Thereafter, the dummy end fitting assembly 32 is rotated to align the cap screw and washer 78 with the guide slot 72. The dummy end fitting assembly 32 may then be telescopically inserted into the sleeve 60 in proper angular positioning. This arrangement of the guide slot 72 and the socket head cap screw 74 and washer combination restricts the angular displacement or rotation of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 relative to the sleeve 60.
A locking device 80 is located between the front and rear support walls 20, 22 and is attached to the sleeve 60. The locking device 80 has a securing portion or a shoulder screw 82 that is adapted to be rotated and secured into the leading or outboard aperture 56b of the set of apertures 56 found in the dummy end fitting
-16-assembly 32. The shoulder screw 82 comprises a screw having a pin like portion that has a threaded end that passes into the aperture 56b of the dummy end fitting assembly 32. The pin portion passes through a circular shoulder 84 mounted on the end of a threaded shaft 86. Circular shoulder 84 may be welded or formed as part of the threaded shaft 86. The threaded shaft 86 extends along a narrowing slot 88 which is a continuation of the guide slot 72. The sleeve 60 has a cross slot 90 adjacent the junction 102 between the narrowing slot 88 and the guide slot 72. A slot nut 92 is captured in cross slot 90. In Figure 6 the two slot nuts 92 are tightened snug in opposite directions against different fore and aft surfaces of the corresponding cross slot 90 that the nut is in. The combination of the shoulder screw 82, shoulder 84, threaded shaft 86 and captured slot nut 92 allows for adjustment in the length of the threaded shaft 86 along the narrowing slot 88 and the guide slot 72 thereby allowing for adjustment of the relative axial position of the shoulder screw 82 in the guide slot 72. Since the threaded portion of the shoulder screw 82 is fastened in the aperture 56 of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 closest to its leading end portion 52, the relative axial position of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 with respect to the sleeve 60 and with respect to the front support wall 20 is adjustable with the adjustment of nuts 92. This adjustment allows for changes in axial displacement of the dummy end fitting assembly 32 relative to the front support wall 20 so as to represent as found creep conditions associated between the end fitting assembly and the end shield of the nuclear reactor.
The head of the shoulder screws 82 act to fix the corresponding dummy end fitting assembly 32 with the sleeve 60 in an axial telescopic positional relation.
Furthermore, the locking device 80, or shoulder screw 82, passing through the guide slot fixes the angular position relation between the sleeve 60 and its corresponding dummy end fitting assembly 32. The protrusion in the form of socket head cap 74 and washer 78 extending from the dummy end fitting assembly 32 into the guide slot restricts relative angular rotation of movement and the locking device further fixes such relative angular rotational movement.
The assembly of the dummy end fitting 32 to the sleeve 60 comprises the steps of initially passing the dummy end fitting 32 through one of the front circular
The head of the shoulder screws 82 act to fix the corresponding dummy end fitting assembly 32 with the sleeve 60 in an axial telescopic positional relation.
Furthermore, the locking device 80, or shoulder screw 82, passing through the guide slot fixes the angular position relation between the sleeve 60 and its corresponding dummy end fitting assembly 32. The protrusion in the form of socket head cap 74 and washer 78 extending from the dummy end fitting assembly 32 into the guide slot restricts relative angular rotation of movement and the locking device further fixes such relative angular rotational movement.
The assembly of the dummy end fitting 32 to the sleeve 60 comprises the steps of initially passing the dummy end fitting 32 through one of the front circular
-17-apertures 28. Next, two screws 74 and corresponding washer 78 are inserted into opposing apertures 56a in each of the opposing pairs of apertures 56. The apertures 56 are chosen to represent the desired simulated nuclear reactor environment.
Alternatively another aperture pair 54 or 58 may be chosen to represent other as found nuclear reactor environments. Once both screws 74 are inserted, the dummy end fitting 32 is rotated so as to align the screw head with corresponding guide slots 72.
The dummy end fitting 32 is then slid telescopically within the sleeve 60 with the relationship between the screw 74 and the guide slot 72 restricting angular movement between the dummy end fitting 32 and the sleeve 60. The dummy end fitting 32 is slid axially relative to the sleeve 60 until the dummy end fitting 32 approximates the desired location within the sleeve 60 to represent the as found creep conditions in the nuclear reactor end fitting under simulation. At this time two locking devices 80 are attached to the dummy end fitting 32 and the sleeve 60. The distance between the shoulder screw 82 and the nut 92 of each locking device 80 is adjusted along the threaded shaft 86 allowing the nuts 92 to enter corresponding cross slots 90 as the shoulder screws 82 are threaded into corresponding opposing apertures 56b of the dummy end fitting 32. Thereafter the nuts 92 are adjusted to be lock against different opposite walls of the cross slot 92 as shown in Figure 6. With the snug nuts locked into position in the cross slots 92, the dummy end fitting 32 is secured with the sleeve 60 both in an axial telescopic position and angular position by the locking devices 80.
While there have been described herein what are considered to be preferred and exemplary embodiments of the present invention, other modifications of these embodiments falling within the scope of the invention described herein shall be apparent to those skilled in the art.
Alternatively another aperture pair 54 or 58 may be chosen to represent other as found nuclear reactor environments. Once both screws 74 are inserted, the dummy end fitting 32 is rotated so as to align the screw head with corresponding guide slots 72.
The dummy end fitting 32 is then slid telescopically within the sleeve 60 with the relationship between the screw 74 and the guide slot 72 restricting angular movement between the dummy end fitting 32 and the sleeve 60. The dummy end fitting 32 is slid axially relative to the sleeve 60 until the dummy end fitting 32 approximates the desired location within the sleeve 60 to represent the as found creep conditions in the nuclear reactor end fitting under simulation. At this time two locking devices 80 are attached to the dummy end fitting 32 and the sleeve 60. The distance between the shoulder screw 82 and the nut 92 of each locking device 80 is adjusted along the threaded shaft 86 allowing the nuts 92 to enter corresponding cross slots 90 as the shoulder screws 82 are threaded into corresponding opposing apertures 56b of the dummy end fitting 32. Thereafter the nuts 92 are adjusted to be lock against different opposite walls of the cross slot 92 as shown in Figure 6. With the snug nuts locked into position in the cross slots 92, the dummy end fitting 32 is secured with the sleeve 60 both in an axial telescopic position and angular position by the locking devices 80.
While there have been described herein what are considered to be preferred and exemplary embodiments of the present invention, other modifications of these embodiments falling within the scope of the invention described herein shall be apparent to those skilled in the art.
- 18-
Claims (23)
1. A modular end fitting assembly for use with a nuclear reactor fuel channel mock-up assembly, comprising:
a main tube portion having a cylindrical end fitting hub; and, an end closure fitting removably secured to the end fitting hub.
a main tube portion having a cylindrical end fitting hub; and, an end closure fitting removably secured to the end fitting hub.
2. The assembly as in claim 1, further comprising:
an axial securing mechanism for removably securing the end closure fitting with the end fitting hub in axially positional relation.
an axial securing mechanism for removably securing the end closure fitting with the end fitting hub in axially positional relation.
3. The assembly as in claim 1, wherein:
the main tube portion has an outboard end portion and an inboard end portion at opposing ends of the main tube portion;
a first locating aperture passes through the inboard end portion at a predetermined axial aperture position along the inboard end portion for fixing the main tube portion to a predetermined axial length in the mock-up assembly;
a feeder mount is coupled with the outboard end portion at a predetermined radial position thereon relative to the first locating aperture; and, the feeder mount having a predetermined angular orientation relative the end closure fitting when the predetermined axial length of the main tube portion is fixed using the first locating aperture.
the main tube portion has an outboard end portion and an inboard end portion at opposing ends of the main tube portion;
a first locating aperture passes through the inboard end portion at a predetermined axial aperture position along the inboard end portion for fixing the main tube portion to a predetermined axial length in the mock-up assembly;
a feeder mount is coupled with the outboard end portion at a predetermined radial position thereon relative to the first locating aperture; and, the feeder mount having a predetermined angular orientation relative the end closure fitting when the predetermined axial length of the main tube portion is fixed using the first locating aperture.
4. The assembly as in claim 3, wherein:
the feeder mount is located at a predetermined axial distance from the end closure fitting.
the feeder mount is located at a predetermined axial distance from the end closure fitting.
5. The assembly as in claim 4, wherein:
the end closure fitting has an outboard end face; and, the predetermined axial distance is between a center of the feeder mount and the outboard end face of the end closure fitting.
the end closure fitting has an outboard end face; and, the predetermined axial distance is between a center of the feeder mount and the outboard end face of the end closure fitting.
6. The assembly as in claim 3, wherein:
the first locating aperture passes through the inboard end portion at a first radial aperture position;
a second locating aperture passes through the outboard end portion at a predetermined second radial aperture position relative to the first radial aperture position; wherein, the feeder mount is located on the outboard end portion by the second locating aperture.
the first locating aperture passes through the inboard end portion at a first radial aperture position;
a second locating aperture passes through the outboard end portion at a predetermined second radial aperture position relative to the first radial aperture position; wherein, the feeder mount is located on the outboard end portion by the second locating aperture.
7. The assembly as in claim 6, further comprising:
a plurality of first locating apertures passing through the inboard end portion at predetermined axial positions and different first radial aperture positions for use with the mock-up assembly in fixing the main tube portion at one of a plurality of axial lengths corresponding to the axial positions;
a plurality of second locating apertures passing through the outboard end portion at predetermined second radial aperture positions each corresponding to a one of the first radial aperture positions; and, the feeder mount coupled with the main tube portion and located by a predetermined one of the second locating apertures, the feeder mount having a predetermined angular orientation relative end closure fitting when the axial length of the main tube portion is fixed by the mock-up assembly using the first locating aperture that corresponds to the predetermined one of the second locating apertures.
a plurality of first locating apertures passing through the inboard end portion at predetermined axial positions and different first radial aperture positions for use with the mock-up assembly in fixing the main tube portion at one of a plurality of axial lengths corresponding to the axial positions;
a plurality of second locating apertures passing through the outboard end portion at predetermined second radial aperture positions each corresponding to a one of the first radial aperture positions; and, the feeder mount coupled with the main tube portion and located by a predetermined one of the second locating apertures, the feeder mount having a predetermined angular orientation relative end closure fitting when the axial length of the main tube portion is fixed by the mock-up assembly using the first locating aperture that corresponds to the predetermined one of the second locating apertures.
8. The assembly of claim 1, wherein:
the end closure fitting is tubular and includes an inboard end portion and an outboard end portion; and, the inboard end portion overlaying and secured to the cylindrical end fitting hub.
the end closure fitting is tubular and includes an inboard end portion and an outboard end portion; and, the inboard end portion overlaying and secured to the cylindrical end fitting hub.
9. The assembly of claim 8 further comprising at least one fastener passing through the inboard end portion of the end closure fitting and the cylindrical end fitting hub.
10. The assembly of claim 8 further comprising:
a closure attachment plate spanning across the end closure fitting at the inboard end portion adjacent the cylindrical end fitting hub;
a closure cap positioned in the outboard end portion of the end closure fitting; and, a threaded member extending between the closure attachment plate and the closure cap for securing the closure cap in the end closure fitting.
a closure attachment plate spanning across the end closure fitting at the inboard end portion adjacent the cylindrical end fitting hub;
a closure cap positioned in the outboard end portion of the end closure fitting; and, a threaded member extending between the closure attachment plate and the closure cap for securing the closure cap in the end closure fitting.
11. The assembly of claim 10 wherein:
the inboard end portion of the end closure fitting has a flange that overlays a portion of the cylindrical end fitting hub; and, the flange adjacent the end closure fitting forming a seat for the closure attachment plate whereby the closure attachment plate is seated therein in abutment with an end rim portion of the cylindrical end fitting hub.
the inboard end portion of the end closure fitting has a flange that overlays a portion of the cylindrical end fitting hub; and, the flange adjacent the end closure fitting forming a seat for the closure attachment plate whereby the closure attachment plate is seated therein in abutment with an end rim portion of the cylindrical end fitting hub.
12. The assembly as in claim 1, wherein:
the main tube portion has a feeder mount positioned inboard and adjacent to the cylindrical end fitting hub;
the end closure fitting has an inboard end surface portion depending therefrom; and, the inboard end surface portion and the cylindrical end fitting hub are axially cooperable for releasably securing the end closure fitting with the cylindrical end fitting hub at a predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount and the main tube portion.
the main tube portion has a feeder mount positioned inboard and adjacent to the cylindrical end fitting hub;
the end closure fitting has an inboard end surface portion depending therefrom; and, the inboard end surface portion and the cylindrical end fitting hub are axially cooperable for releasably securing the end closure fitting with the cylindrical end fitting hub at a predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount and the main tube portion.
13. The assembly as in claim 12, wherein the cylindrical end fitting hub comprises an outboard end surface portion, and the assembly further comprising:
a plurality of radially spaced apart locating apertures located in at least one of the cylindrical end fitting hub at the outboard end surface portion thereof and the end closure fitting at the inboard end surface portion thereof;
at least one locating projection extends axially outward from the other one of the outboard end surface portion away from the cylindrical end fitting hub and the inboard end surface portion away from the end closure fitting; and, the at least one locating projection receivable within a predetermined one of the locating apertures for positioning the end closure fitting at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the main tube portion and the feeder mount.
a plurality of radially spaced apart locating apertures located in at least one of the cylindrical end fitting hub at the outboard end surface portion thereof and the end closure fitting at the inboard end surface portion thereof;
at least one locating projection extends axially outward from the other one of the outboard end surface portion away from the cylindrical end fitting hub and the inboard end surface portion away from the end closure fitting; and, the at least one locating projection receivable within a predetermined one of the locating apertures for positioning the end closure fitting at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the main tube portion and the feeder mount.
14. The assembly as in claim 13, wherein:
adjacent ones of the locating apertures have predetermined radial distances therebetween for providing a plurality of predetermined angular orientations for the end closure fitting, the predetermined angular orientation selectable from the plurality of predetermined angular orientations.
adjacent ones of the locating apertures have predetermined radial distances therebetween for providing a plurality of predetermined angular orientations for the end closure fitting, the predetermined angular orientation selectable from the plurality of predetermined angular orientations.
15. The assembly as in claim 13, wherein:
a fastening mechanism extends from one of the end fitting hub and the end closure fitting to the other one of the end fitting hub and the end closure fitting to lock the at least one projection within the predetermined one of the locating apertures.
a fastening mechanism extends from one of the end fitting hub and the end closure fitting to the other one of the end fitting hub and the end closure fitting to lock the at least one projection within the predetermined one of the locating apertures.
16. The assembly as in claim 13, wherein:
one of the outboard end surface portion of the cylindrical end fitting hub and the inboard end surface portion of the end closure fitting has a spigot extending outwardly therefrom; and, an other one of the outboard end surface portion and the inboard end surface portion has a spigot cooperating surface portion depending therefrom cooperable with the spigot to restrain the cylindrical end fitting hub against incidental rotational forces between the cylindrical end fitting hub and the end closure fitting about the projection as the projection is received in the predetermined locating aperture.
one of the outboard end surface portion of the cylindrical end fitting hub and the inboard end surface portion of the end closure fitting has a spigot extending outwardly therefrom; and, an other one of the outboard end surface portion and the inboard end surface portion has a spigot cooperating surface portion depending therefrom cooperable with the spigot to restrain the cylindrical end fitting hub against incidental rotational forces between the cylindrical end fitting hub and the end closure fitting about the projection as the projection is received in the predetermined locating aperture.
17. The end fitting assembly as in claim 12, wherein:
the cylindrical end fitting has an outboard end surface portion; and, at least one spacer is coupled with at least one of the inboard end surface portion and the outboard end surface portion of the main tube portion for extending the length of the main tube portion.
the cylindrical end fitting has an outboard end surface portion; and, at least one spacer is coupled with at least one of the inboard end surface portion and the outboard end surface portion of the main tube portion for extending the length of the main tube portion.
18. The end fitting assembly as in claim 12, wherein:
the main tube portion is segmented; and, the at least one spacer is coupled with the main tube portion between adjacent segments of the main tube portion.
the main tube portion is segmented; and, the at least one spacer is coupled with the main tube portion between adjacent segments of the main tube portion.
19. The end fitting assembly as in claim 12, wherein:
the main tube portion is a first main tube portion that is interchangeable with a second main tube portion having a different axial length than the first main tube portion.
the main tube portion is a first main tube portion that is interchangeable with a second main tube portion having a different axial length than the first main tube portion.
20. The end fitting assembly as in claim 12, wherein the main tube portion has an inboard end portion adapted to co-operate with the mock-up assembly and the end fitting assembly further comprising:
a rolled joint hub coupled with the inboard end portion of the main tube portion.
a rolled joint hub coupled with the inboard end portion of the main tube portion.
21. The end fitting assembly as in claim 17, wherein:
the at least one spacer has an inboard spacer end portion and an outboard spacer end portion;
the outboard spacer end portion of the at least one spacer is coupled with the inboard end portion of the main tube portion; and a rolled joint hub is coupled with the inboard spacer end portion.
the at least one spacer has an inboard spacer end portion and an outboard spacer end portion;
the outboard spacer end portion of the at least one spacer is coupled with the inboard end portion of the main tube portion; and a rolled joint hub is coupled with the inboard spacer end portion.
22. The assembly as in claim 12, wherein:
the end closure fitting is tubular and has interrupted threads depending from an interior surface portion thereof; and, the interrupted threads have a predetermined thread orientation when the end closure fitting is secured with the cylindrical end fitting hub at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount of the main tube portion.
the end closure fitting is tubular and has interrupted threads depending from an interior surface portion thereof; and, the interrupted threads have a predetermined thread orientation when the end closure fitting is secured with the cylindrical end fitting hub at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount of the main tube portion.
23. The assembly as in claim 12, wherein:
the main tube portion has a liner extending axially within an interior of the main tube portion; and, the liner has a liner orientation in the main tube portion and the end closure fitting is secured with the cylindrical end fitting hub at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount and liner tube of the main tube portion.
the main tube portion has a liner extending axially within an interior of the main tube portion; and, the liner has a liner orientation in the main tube portion and the end closure fitting is secured with the cylindrical end fitting hub at the predetermined angular orientation relative to the position of the feeder mount and liner tube of the main tube portion.
Priority Applications (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2732898A CA2732898C (en) | 2011-02-25 | 2011-02-25 | End fitting assembly for nuclear reactor mock-up assembly |
| ARP120100428A AR085348A1 (en) | 2011-02-25 | 2012-02-09 | CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY FOR NUCLEAR REACTOR SIMULATOR ASSEMBLY |
| ROA201200115A RO128333A2 (en) | 2011-02-25 | 2012-02-21 | End joining assembly for nuclear reactor replica assembly |
| KR1020120018913A KR20120098481A (en) | 2011-02-25 | 2012-02-24 | End fitting assembly for nuclear reactor mock-up assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2732898A CA2732898C (en) | 2011-02-25 | 2011-02-25 | End fitting assembly for nuclear reactor mock-up assembly |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2732898A1 CA2732898A1 (en) | 2012-08-25 |
| CA2732898C true CA2732898C (en) | 2015-11-10 |
Family
ID=46717641
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2732898A Expired - Fee Related CA2732898C (en) | 2011-02-25 | 2011-02-25 | End fitting assembly for nuclear reactor mock-up assembly |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| KR (1) | KR20120098481A (en) |
| AR (1) | AR085348A1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2732898C (en) |
| RO (1) | RO128333A2 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2018232522A1 (en) * | 2017-06-23 | 2018-12-27 | Candu Energy Inc. | Pressure tube-to-end fitting coupling and method of assembling nuclear reactor fuel channel assembly |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2018232530A1 (en) * | 2017-06-23 | 2018-12-27 | Candu Energy Inc. | System and method for aligning nuclear reactor tubes and end fittings using tube rotation |
-
2011
- 2011-02-25 CA CA2732898A patent/CA2732898C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2012
- 2012-02-09 AR ARP120100428A patent/AR085348A1/en unknown
- 2012-02-21 RO ROA201200115A patent/RO128333A2/en unknown
- 2012-02-24 KR KR1020120018913A patent/KR20120098481A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2018232522A1 (en) * | 2017-06-23 | 2018-12-27 | Candu Energy Inc. | Pressure tube-to-end fitting coupling and method of assembling nuclear reactor fuel channel assembly |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AR085348A1 (en) | 2013-09-25 |
| RO128333A2 (en) | 2013-04-30 |
| CA2732898A1 (en) | 2012-08-25 |
| KR20120098481A (en) | 2012-09-05 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20180226 |