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Accurate Nuclear Fuel Burnup Analyses; Eighth Quarterly Progress Report, (September - November 1963): The objective of the Accurate Nuclear Fuel Burnup Analyses program is to develop more accurate methods for burnup analysis for general use than the current method of analysis of Ca-137 or Sr-90. The program will require from three to five years of effort.
Accurate Nuclear Fuel Burnup Analyses; Ninth Quarterly Progress Report, (December 1963 - February 1964): The objective of the Accurate Nuclear Fuel Burnup Analyses program is to develop more accurate methods for burnup analysis for general use than the current method of analysis of Ca-137 or Sr-90. The program will require from three to five years of effort.
Accurate Nuclear Fuel Burnup Analysis Quarterly Progress Report: Sixth Quarter, March 1963 - May 1963: Quarterly progress report on Accurate Nuclear Fuel Burnup Analysis project.
AEC Fuel Cycle Program Design and Fabrication of Special Assembly 9-L : Irradiation Performance Test of UO2-Cermet Fuel: Technical report describing a UO2-Mo cermet fuel assembly fabricated for long-term irradiation performance testing in the Vallecitos Boiling water Reactor. The design and fabrication histories of this assembly are described and pre-irradiation data on each individual rod are presented. Molybdenum was added to improve the bulk thermal conductivity of the fuel, so that fuel temperatures would remain comparatively low during high-power level operation of the fuel element. The molybdenum was incorporated into the compacts either as fibers or as a thin coating on individual UO2 particles. Fuel pellets were produced from these materials by vacuum hot pressing. The distribution of the molybdenum in both types of cermet fuels appeared favorable to good heat transfer. The fibers were oriented predominantly in the radial planes of the pellet as a result of the uni-directional compaction during the hot-pressing operation. In the pellets made from the coated particles, a continuous network of molybdenum occurred as a result of the coating welding together during the hot-pressing operation. The test assembly contains eight fuel rods; three contain UO2-Mo cermet, three contain the cermet produced from the coated particles, and two are for reference and contain the conventional sintered UO2 pellet fuel. The nominal outside diameter of the fuel rods is 1.308 cm (0.515 inch), and the clad wall thickness if 0.051 cm (0.020 inch). the cladding material is Type-304 stainless steel. The fuel pellets were all centerless ground to achieve a uniform outside diameter and thereby control the pellet-to-clad diametral clearance within a range of 0.076 to 0.102 mm (0.003 to 0.004 inch). Operation of the fuel rods will be at high specific power levels with surface heat fluxes of about 157 W/cm(2) (~500,000 Btu/h-ft(2)). The assembly was designed for a lifetime of 4.1 x 10(20) fission/cc (15,000 MWD/T) exposure.
Analysis of Zero Power Experiments on SM-1 Core II and SM-1A Core I: Abstract: An analysis of SM-1 Core II and SM-1A Core I zero power experiments was made by comparing these cores to each other and to AM-1 Core I on the basis of critical bank positions, bank calibrations and available chemical analyses of the fuel plate compositions. The effects of replacing boron absorbers by europium absorbers upon rod worth and stuck rod conditions were studied. Comparisons of measured and calculated power distributions were made. It was concluded that both SM-1 Core II and SM-1A Core I contain nearly identical B-10 loading of 17.79 grams, compared to the best estimate of 15.75 grams for SM-1 Core I. The available data indicates that all three cores possess similar nuclear characteristics.
Army PWR Support and Development Program Six Months Summary Report : October 1, 1961 - March 31, 1962: Abstract: Progress is reported on research and development tasks under the Program Plan for Engineering Support and Development of Army Pressurized Water Reactor Power Plants, Contract AT(30-1)-2639, during the six months' period October 1, 1061 to March 31, 1962.
BWR Reference Design for PL-3: Abstract: The natural circulation, direct cycle, boiling water reactor reference design presented in this technical report is the alternate to the preferred preliminary design developed under Phase I of the PL-3 contract. The report presents plant design criteria, summary of plant selection, plant description, reactor and primary system description, thermal and hydraulic analysis, nuclear analysis, control and instrumentation description, shielding description, auxiliary systems, power plant equipment, waste disposal, buildings and tunnels, services, operation and maintenance, logistics, erection, cost information and training program outline.
The Chemical Engineering of the Radium Process : Final Report: Radium which occurs with the uranium in pitchblende ores remains with the gangue when the uranium is extracted by a hot, mixed acid leach. Upon completion of the laboratory research on the radium process, this report was organized into three phases which are contained in this publication.
Corrosion Effects of Lowering the pH in TBP Waste Storage Tanks: Large savings in waste storage space may be realized by lowering the pH at which TBP waste is stored. Additional savings in neutralizing chemicals and operating time would also increase the monetary gain from such a process change. However, before such a change could be made, the corrosive effect of TBP waste at a lower pH on the mild steel waste storage tanks had to be determined.
Criteria for Evaluating Hazards Involved in Proposed Tests On and/or Modifications To the SM-1: Abstract: This technical report elucidates principles of hazards evaluation. The concept of hazards potential is introduced and utilized to show how a reactor system perturbation will influence its nuclear safety. Literature relating to reactor safety is referenced to provide the sources of information required for hazards analysis and show how they influence a hazards evaluation. A checklist of items which should be considered in evaluating a change, test, or modification is presented.
Design and Fabrication of Fuel Rods Containing Sintered UO2 Extrusions - Assembly 11L: The extrusion forming of ceramic powders may be economically interesting in the field of nuclear fuel fabrication. When applied to the forming of rod-type uranium dioxide fuel, extrusion processes have been able to produce cylindrical bodies with length-to-diameter ratios much greater than those of the conventional die-pressed pellets. Furthermore, after being sintered, the extrusions have exhibited densities at least as high as those of sintered pellets. Thus, extrusion forming may offer reductions in handling during fabrication and, at the same time, provide a fuel with improved performance characteristics by decreasing the number of discontinuities in the fuel column. This report reviews the production of these extrusions, sets forth some of their characteristics, describes the materials and processes employed in cladding them, and records the pre-irradiation data pertaining to the finished fuel rods and fuel assembly. Irradiation of the fuel assembly in the VBWR was initiated on July 17, 1962.
Design and Fabrication of Pellet Fuel Rods Clad With Thin Wall Stainless Steel: Summary: Stainless steel clad nuclear fuel cycle costs can be reduced to those associated with Zircaloy clad fuel or potentially lower by reducing the thickness of the clad tube wall until performance penalties offset the savings associated with the reduction in parasitic neutron absorption. To demonstrate the feasibility and investigate performance capabilities of thin clad fuel rods for power reactor application an assembly was fabricated with 0.0127 cm (5 mil) thick stainless steel cladding tubes for irradiation testing in the Vallecitos Boiling Water Reactor (VBWR). The fuel bundle was placed in the VBWR and irradiation was begun in November, 1961. The irradiation is scheduled to continue until the target exposure of 2.74 x 10(20) fissions/cc (10,000 MWD/T of uranium) average burnup is reached. Destructive examinations of fuel rods will be performed at regular intervals throughout life to determine fuel rod performance.
Design Criteria for Irradiated Vessels Task 6.0 Summary Report: Abstract: This technical report presents design criteria to prevent the brittle fracture of ferritic reactor vessels that cold occur as a result of the rise in NDT caused by fast neutron irradiation. The criteria require that maximum principal stress in the vessel does not exceed 18 percent of yield stress at temperatures below NDT + 60 degree F. Under certain conditions the allowable stress may be based on the irradiated yield stress. A discussion of brittle fracture and an explanation of the criteria are included.
Development of Pulsed Neutron Application to Power Reactor Start-Up Procedures. Fifth Quarterly Progress Report, April 1-June 30, 1963: Activities in a program to develop techniques in the use of pulsed neutron sources to measure shutdown parameters related to large thermal power reactors are reported. The development of pulsed neutron source techniques for large power reactors has led to a new theoretical model recently developed by E. Garelis and J.L. Russell, Jr. The theory is presently based on a bare, one-group model with m-delayed precursors and takes all spatial modes into account. Results indicate, however, that the application of this model is much broader. Experiments were designed and carried out to both verify this new theory and to demonstrate the performance of the experimental hardware in a large power reactor.
Development of Pulsed Neutron Application to Power Reactor Start-Up Procedures. Seventh and Eighth Quarterly Progress Report, October 1, 1963-March 31, 1964: Activities in a program to develop techniques in the use of pulsed neutron sources to measure shutdown parameters related to large thermal power reactors are reported. In the course of this program, a new theory was suggested and an experimental apparatus was designed and built. Experiments were carried out to test the new model. This present report contains additional data and information extracted from the experiments at PG&E Humboldt Bay Power Reactor at Eureka, California. During the last days of 1963 a number of control rod and fuel bundle worth measurements were made in the ESADA Vallecitos Experimental Superheat Reactor (EVESR) using the (k[beta]/[script l] technique. A description of the experiments is given in the text of the report and some results are reported. A computer program was written to perform the data analysis of the pulsed neutron experiments and the code is discussed in the Appendix.
Development of Pulsed Neutron Application to Power Reactor Start-Up Procedures. Sixth Quarterly Progress Report, July 1-September 30, 1963: Activities in a program to develop techniques in the use of pulsed neutron sources to measure shutdown parameters related to large thermal power reactors are reported. The development of pulsed neutron source techniques for large power reactors has led to a new theoretical model recently developed by E. Garelis and J.L. Russell, Jr. The theory is presently based on a bare, one-group model with m-delayed precursors and takes all spatial modes into account. Results indicate, however, that the application of this model is much broader. Experiments were designed and carried out to both verify this new theory and to demonstrate the performance of the experimental hardware in a large power reactor.
Environmental Testing of a B4C-Ni Prototype Control Rod: Summary: A prototype control rod containing absorber plates made from an electro- deposited dispersion of boron carbide in nickel was tested in the VBWR. It was exposed to the reactor environment of 545 degree F boiling water and thermal neutron fluxes (perturbed) which ranged from 0.6 to 1.1 x 10/sup 13/ nv for 2236 hours over a period of six months. The maximum B/sup 10/ burnup achieved during the test period was 1.8 percent. After irradiation, the rod was examined. The results of the examination are summarized below: (1) The B/sub 4/C-- Ni plate assembly did not undergo significant dimensional changes during irradiation. (2) Numerous blisters developed on both the outer and inner surfaces of three of the four plates. Blistering was more severe on the outer surface than on the inner, and was most severe in a large region located in the lower half of plate 4. Metallographic examination revealed that the blisters were located only in the 2- mil protective nickel overlay covering the B/sub 4/C-- Ni dispersion. It was concluded that they formed from the buildup of gas pressure at the Ni: Ni-- B/sub 4/C interfaces, rather than from corrosion attack. Helium from the B/sup 10/(n alpha )Li/sup 7/ reaction probably contributed to this pressure. However it is conjectured that the major gas was very likely hydrogen, possibly generated and dissolved in the nickel during electroplating and then released to defects at the Ni: Ni--B/sub 4/C interface during reactor exposure. The variation in the degree of blistering among the four plates of the prototype indicated that the blistering was related to variations in the fabrication process. Failure of the nickel overlay was not observed in any of the blisters examined metallographically, and the underlying B/sub 4/C-- Ni appeared to be in good condition. (3) Evidence of corrosion …
Extended SM-2 Critical Experiments : CE-2: Abstract: This technical report contains a description and results of a second series of critical experiments performed on the SM-2 core mock-up, as additional to the first series of experiments reported in APAE No. 54. The SM-2 core mock-up contains 36.4 kg U-235 and and estimated 67.9 gm B-10. The equivalent diameter and the active height are about 22 in.; the metal-to-water volume ration is 0.344. Data is presented on activation, reactivity, and stuck rod measurements. All measurements were conducted on the open seven control rod array employing 38 stationary fuel elements. Activation measurements consisted of neutron flux measurements using uranium fission foils for relative power distribution studies, the effect of flux suppressors on reducing power peaks, blocked coolant channel measurements, and gamma ray dose distribution. Reactivity measurements were performed to determine the effect f flow divider, flux suppressors and stimulated high temperature and pressure operation; b-10 loading in the SM-2 core; and core material coefficients. For the later, the worth in cents per gm or cents per cc was determined at simulated temperature of 510 degree F for B-10, U-235, stainless steel, and void. Stuck rod measurements were made to obtain an indication of the criticality margin in the event one or more control rods should stick in the operating position.
Fission Product Activity in SM-1 Core I Primary System and Surface Contamination on SM-1 Type Fuel Elements. Task XVIII, Phases 2 and 3: Abstract; The fission product data obtained during SM-1 Core I operation (June 1957 - May 1960) is reviewed briefly and interpreted. Evidence is presented to indicate that a fuel element defect was responsible for the high fission product activity level observed in the primary coolant. Relative escape coefficients are calculated and the defect size estimated. Anticipated fission product levels during SM-1 Core II and SM-1A Core I operation are estimated from alpha surface contamination data on completed fuel elements. The importance of in-line sampling for monitoring fission product activity is stressed as well as the need for failed fuel element detection methods.
Fuel Cycle Program Design and Fabrication of Special Assembly 10-L : Compacted Powder Fuel Rods Clad With 0.127-MM Wall Stainless Steel: Technical report describing sixteen fuel rods clad with thin type 304 stainless steel and filled with vibratory compact powder UO2 that were fabricated and incorporated into a bundle for irradiation testing in the VBWR. The UO2 powders were tested for gas content. N2, CO, and H2 were the principal gases evolved by both type of UO2, but the arc-fused UO2 released about ten times as much gas as the Dyna Pak UO2. The amount of gas released was also a function of particle size and temperature. The gas evolution data were used to design the gas plenum to accommodate the absorbed gases along with the fission gases.
Fuel Cycle Program Progress Report: Fourteenth Quarter, October-December 1963: Quarterly progress report discussing activities related to the Vallecitos Boiling Water Reactor (VBWR) and related facilities.
Fuel Failure Examinations and Analyses in the High Power Density Program: Summary: The High Power Density Project includes a comprehensive fuel development program which has the objective of developing and demonstrating the performance of a nuclear reactor core having a high power density, long fuel life, and low fabrication cost. The fuel program is made up of two principal tasks. Task 1A consists of irradiation tests in the VBWR of Type 304 stainless steel clad, UO2 pellet type fuel rods fabricated by current commercial processes. Task 1B consists of the investigation of lower cost fabrication processes and the irradiation testing of fuel elements fabricated by these processes. Both tasks include the investigation of the feasibility and use of thin-wall stainless steel cladding as a means of improving the neutron economy and fuel cycle costs of stainless steel clad fuel. Irradiation of the Task 1A fuel assemblies in the VBWR was initiated in September, 1960. Subsequently, Task 1B fuel assemblies were inserted in the VBWR as various fabrication processes and design concepts were investigated. Fuel cladding failures have occurred in fuel rods in both Task 1A and 1B. As of this date, cladding failures have occurred in twenty-two rods of approximately 700 fuel rods which have been irradiated. Twenty of the failures occurred in cold worked tubing and two in tubing procured commercially as annealed materials.
Hazards Report for Insertion of the PM-1-M-2 Element in the SM-1 Core II: Abstract: This technical report describes the Martin Co. PM-1-M-2 test element and analyzes the potential hazard incurred by its inclusion in the SM-1 Core II. A nuclear analysis develops power distributions and reactivity effects. Hydraulic and thermal analyses develop anticipated burnout heat flux ratios. An evaluation of the risk involved with the inclusion of this element is presented. In view of the narrow margin by which the PM-1-M-2 test element meets the minimum burnout ratios as defined by Alco Products, Inc., it is recommended that if time permits that critical facility design verification be accomplished. The PM-1-M-2 test element meets the minimum requirements for insertion in SM-1 Core II and in view of the importance of this element to the PM-1 and PM-3A program, should be considered for insertion.
Hazards Report for PM-2A Core II: Abstract: This technical report describes the changes incurred in the PM-2A by the planned insertion of PM-2A Core II and the replacement of the startup and check sources. PM-2A Core II components were fabricated to specifications very nearly identical to those of PM-2A Core I. The essential difference in the cores is the boron loading which permits PM-2A Core II to meet a "one-stuck rod criteria" at beginning of life. This core has been subjected to a zero power experiment and loading procedures have been developed at the Alco Critical Facility. The nuclear and thermal and hydraulic characteristics are essentially identical to those of Core I and the replacement of the startup and check sources represent no increase in the potential for or magnitude of a hazardous situation.
Hazards Report for SM-1 Core II With the SM-1 Core II High Burnup Elements Replaced with SM-1 Core I Spare Elements: Abstract: The removal of both SM-1 Core I high burnup elements from the SM-1 Core II and the insertion of two SM-1 Core I spare elements i their places are discussed. Nuclear and thermal characteristics of Core II with the change are presented and conclusion related to the change in hazard potential are made. If the core change indicated by this report is made, local peaking factors will be decreased and burnout ratios will be increased. This, of course, in itself leads to a more conservative estimate of core safety. There is no conceivable reason why this perturbation may not be safely made in the SM-1 Core II.
Hazards Report for SM-1 Core II With the SM-1 Core II With the Silver-Cadmium-Indium Control Rod Absorber Section: Abstract: In the March-April 1962 shutdown of SM-1 Core II, the SM-28 element will be re-inserted in SM-1 Core II and an SM-1 Core I element will be removed. An SM-1 Core II europium absorber will be replaced by a Ag-Cd-In absorber, and surveillance specimens will be inserted above the core support structure. Analysis of these changes concludes that re-insertion of the SM-2B stationary element and insertion of surveillance specimens do not affect hazards potential previously defined for SM-1. Replacement of the europium absorber by the Ag-Cd-In absorber will have negligible effect on reactivity control worth of the rod. The absorber meat section is encapsulated to prevent exposure of silver alloy to the primary coolant; postulated release of silver due to a cladding defect, after 2 years irradiation in SM-1, would not cause a hazard such as to restrict access to the vapor container. Possibility of steam formation in the air gap between the absorber core and cladding, causing a cladding failure, is remote. Deformation of the absorber section sufficient to cause the rod to stick, would not impair the ability of the other rods to shut down the reactor safely.
Hazards Report for SM-1 Core II Without the SM-1 Core I High Burnup Elements and With the PM-1-M-2 Element: Abstract: The removal of both SM-1 Core I high burnup elements from SM-1 Core II and the insertion of the PM-1-M-2 element and the SM-1 Core I spare element in SM-1 Core II is discussed. Nuclear and thermal characteristics of Core II with these changes are presented and conclusions related to the changes in the hazard potential are made. If the core change indicated by this report is made, local peaking factors will be decreased and burnout ratios will be increased. This, of course, in itself leads to a more conservative estimate of core safety. There is no conceivable reason why the perturbation may not be safely made in the SM-1 Core II.
Hazards Report for SM-1 Core Temperature and Flow Instrumentation (Task XIV) Covering Special Test Procedures.: Abstract: Test procedures for special tests involving in-core SM-1 temperature and flow instrumentation are described (Task XIV Package Tests). These tests involve in-core steady state flow and temperature measurements, loss of flow transients, load transients, reduced primary system pressure operations and reduced element flow. The thermal and hydraulic conditions prevailing in these tests, including steady state and transient burnout rations, are developed. The effects of reduced system pressure and flow on the burnout ratios are determined as are the expected stuck rod conditions when Task XIV test elements are installed. The effect on the maximum credible accident is included and a recommendation to conduct these Task XIV package tests is made.
Hazards Report for the SM-1 Core II With Special Components: Abstract: This technical report describes the changes incurred in the SM-1 by the insertion of the SM-1 Core II and special components. The special components consist of impact specimens, a boron gradient rod, SM-2 elements, a PM-1-M element, and high burnup SM-1 Core I elements. The change in hazards, due to operation of SM-1 with Core II and the special components is evaluated. The analysis indicates there is no change in hazards.
Heat Transfer to Superheated Steam: Abstract: The physical property variation of superheated steam differs sufficiently from most other gases to warrant experimental investigation of heat transfer performance. Results are reported here of measurements made in a uniformly heated circular duct with steam at 1000 psi. The data agree very well with the expression use for design purposes, which is based on information in the literature for heating of other gases as well as steam. This work was a continuation of that performed under Task (Heat Transfer) of the Nuclear Superheat Project, AEC Contract AT(04-3)-189, Project Agreement 13.
High Power Density Development Project: Fifteenth Quarterly Progress Report, October-December 1963: Development of nuclear reactor cores having high power density, long fuel life, and low fabrication costs is the objective of this program sponsored by the AEC. Five tasks are in progress: (1) Task 1A-High Power Density Fuel Development. All fuel irradiation has been terminated with the final shutdown of the VBWR. The high burnup average achieved by a single assembly in the group is 10,000 MWD/T (assembly 1F). Twenty-one of the original 24 assemblies have failed or are suspected of failure. Profilometer tests rung on HPD assembly 2E, Rod B, indicate that localized clad deformation occurs during operation. (2) Task 1B-Fuel Fabrication Development. Assembly. All fuel irradiation has been terminated with the final shutdown of the VBWR. The highest average burnup achieved by a single assembly in the group was assembly 4S with 8400 MWD/T. All assemblies in the group have failed or are suspected of failure. The Phase I developmental fuel continues to be irradiated in the Big rock Point reactor with the lead assembly having reached 1500 MWD/T. Fifteen phase II developmental assemblies are being construction for insertion at Big Rock Point in March. Engineering is underway to provide one instrumented assembly probe and two spare flowmeters for use in phase II testing. Flowmeter bearing are being redesigned to minimize crud access and changes of bearing seizure. (3) Task II-Stability, Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow. Phase I of the reactor performance tests has now been completed. These tests consisted of core performance, control rod oscillator, pressure transient, and flow tests. Reduction of the data from these tests has begun, and preliminary results have been prepared for use by the Consumers Power Company in relicensing for Phase II. (4) Task III-Physics Development. Power distribution calculations have been performed for the proposed 84-bundle, 75 MWe core and for the high …
High Power Density Development Project: Fourteenth Quarterly Progress Report, July-September 1963: Development of nuclear reactor cores having high power density, long fuel life, and low fabrication costs is the objective of this program sponsored by the AEC. Five tasks are in progress: (1) Task 1A-High Power Density Fuel Development. The number of assemblies has been reduced to seven as a result of the failure of two pellet fuel assemblies. The average burnup of the group operating as of September 1 is 7500 MWD/T. (2) Task 1B-Fuel Fabrication Development. Assembly. Assembly 12S gave positive signals of being a leaker under the multi-type in-core sampler and was declared failed based on the in-core results and visual observation of a cracked rod. Modifications to the instrumented fuel assembly probes were made by removing the failed flow meter rotors to allow continued use of the flux detectors and thermocouples. Flux detectors and thermocouples performed properly after reactor start up. Flux wire tubes were found to be kinked such that their use was prohibited. (3) Task II-Stability, Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow. A series of noise recordings of fluxes, flows, and temperatures has been made at 91 MWt at the Big Rock Point plant. Preliminary analyses of some of the these records were made to obtain noise amplitude as a function of frequency. Thermocouple response tests were performed to verify the temperature measurement obtained during the steady-state noise tests at Big Rock. (4) Task III-Physics Development. Plans for achieving optimum performance from the Big Rock plant are being based on the concept of maintaining a fixed power shape throughout each operating cycle. The desired shape for the present cycle has been computed. Methods of selecting control rod patterns to maintain this shape are being investigated for use in the on-line computer. The computer was put on line during plant startup in August, and is presently performing …
High Power Density Development Project: Potter Meter Calibration and Instrumented Fuel Bundle Pressure Drop: Summary: Technical report describing the testing of eight Potter Meters, for metering inlet flow and measuring exit steam qualities in the Consumers Big Rock Point Instrumented Fuel Assemblies, were individually calibrated for flow and pressure drop up to 500 gpm in the low temperature (130 F) fluid flow facility. The flow calibration comparison made with an ASME orifice installation, agreed to within + - 1 percent among seven of the meters, and meter Serial No. 8 was 2.8 percent lower than the others. Pressure drop among the meters was within about 5 percent. Locked rotor pressure drop data was obtained on one meter. A fully instrumented fuel bundle was tested in the low temperature facility and pressure drop data obtained for the tieplates and meters, spacers, and channel rods. A mock-up of the exit end of the instrumented fuel bundles, composed of 1 foot of fuel rods, tieplate, and Potter Meter was tested in the High Pressure Heat Transfer Facility. Data was obtained for single- and two-phase calibration of total flow and exit steam quality in an instrumented bundle. Each meter was operated, for a minimum of 6-8 hours after bearing modifications necessitated by seizure of the rotors, in the High Pressure Facility under conditions of 1000 psi and qualities of about 5-6 percent to verify operation and obtain some run-in time before reactor installation. A total of 655 hours of test and run-in time was made on all eight meters.
High Power Density Development Project: Sixteenth Quarterly Progress Report, January-March 1964: Development of nuclear reactor cores having high power density, long fuel life, and low fabrication costs is the objective of this program sponsored by the AEC. Five tasks are in progress: (1) Task 1A-High Power Density Fuel Development, (2) Task 1B-Fuel Fabrication Development. Assembly, (3) Task II-Stability, Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow, (4) Task III-Physics Development, and (5) Task IV-Co-Ordination and Test Planning.
The Hydrogen Content of Fabricated Uranium: The hydrogen contents of several types of fabricated uranium have been determined by a vacuum method and expressed in terms of ccH2/ccU. The data indicate that alpha-rolled metal contains about 0.25 ccH2(STP)/ccU whereas beta heat-treated uranium yielded values between 0.30 and 0.37 cc per cc. Restricted efforts were made to determine where in the heat treatment the 5 to 10 cc of hydrogen per slug were taken up. It appears that no one operation is wholly responsible for this additional gas, although reactions between beta heat treated surfaces containing microscopic defects, and nitric acid may possibly play a large role. In general it may be said that slug produced by powder metallurgical techniques contain less hydrogen than pieces produced by rolling and heat treatment.
The Identification of the Angular Inclusions Present in Rolled Uranium: Hanford uranium contains minute angular inclusions which affect the microstructure, reactivity, and other important factors controlling the serviceability of the metal. Small quantities of the inclusions have been isolated by chemical means, and the x-ray diffraction patterns and chemical analyses of the isolated materials have been determined. As a first step in the identification of the inclusions present in rolled uranium, a search was made for a chemical method of separating the inclusions from the matrix metal.
In-Core Instrumentation Development Program Quarterly Progress Report January - March 1964: The objective of Project Agreement 22 is to determine the feasibility of using in-core ion chambers to cover the complete reactor neutron flux startup range from 10(4) -5 - 10(13) nv using in-core ion chambers. This technical report discusses the following topics: low versus high cable termination impedance, amplifier considerations, noise considerations, gas and pressure selection, cable selection, effect of gamma, effect of temperature, and remaining problems.
In-Core Instrumentation Development Program Quarterly Progress Report June - September 1963: Introduction: The objective of Project Agreement 22 is to determine the feasibility of covering the complete reactor neutron flux start range from 10(3) - 5 x 10(13) nv by using in-core chambers. The counting mode of operating will be used at low neutron fluxes and the root mean square voltage fluctuation mode will be used at high neutron flux levels. Experiments have been run utilizing various ion chambers, gases, gas pressures, voltage, and cables to measure sensitivities and range operating in the counting and RMS voltage modes. Theoretical discussions are presented showing how the RMS voltage is related to individual pulse at both amplifier input and output. Noise is also compared at amplifier output so that the optimum bandwidth can be selected. Spectral shifts with changes in applied voltage causing signal variations have been examined and can be eliminated by appropriate selection of amplifier bandwidth. In the counting mode, all experiments have been conducted with unterminated cable. The chamber has been designed with geometry, gas, and pressure to completely stop fission fragments in the gas and hence maximize the charge generated in the chamber. Cables have been selected to minimize capacity. Various gases, pressures, and voltages have been used to determine that an optimum design has been achieved.
In-Core Instrumentation Development Program Quarterly Progress Report September - December 1963: Introduction: The objective of Project Agreement 22 is to determine the feasibility of using in-core ion chambers to cover the complete reactor neutron flux startup range from 10(4) -5 - 10(13) nv using in-core ion chambers. The counting mode of operation will be used at low neutron flux levels and the RMS voltage fluctuation mode (Campbell Theorem) will be used at high neutron flux levels. The June-September Progress Report (GEAP-4386) shows how the RMS voltage mode can be used, discusses counting problems with long cable and ways of maximizing signal levels. This report discusses primarily the effect of gamma on counting with in-core ion chambers and the range of neutron flux measurable in the RMS voltage mode. Readers are referred to GEAP-4386 for a summary of all previous progress to attain the objective of PA-22.
Influence of the Doppler Effect on the Meltdown Accident: The influence of the Doppler effect in the core disassembly process following a meltdown accident is examined with a Bethe-Tait type model in which the Doppler effect, as well as core disassembly, is considered in the reactor shutdown process. It is shown that a strong negative Doppler effect can radically reduce the explosive energy release in such an accident. (auth)
Interim Report of Nuclear Analysis Performed on SM-2 Core and Vessel : September 1, 1958 to December 31, 1959.: Abstract: This technical report contains a description of the nuclear analysis performed upon the SM-2 core and vessel for the period September 1, 1958 to December 31, 1959. Calculations are given for core reactivity, power distributions, lifetime, reactor control, kinetics, radiation problems, fuel and poison burn-ups, and the nuclear effects of poisons, temperature, and geometry. Wherever possible, experimental data is included in order to test the validity of the analytical models. The SM-2 nuclear analysis was performed by Alco Products, in. under Tasks 1, 8, and 10 of Contract No. AT(30-2)-326 for the Atomic Energy Commission.
Investigation of Local Boiling of SM-1: Abstract; SM-1 Reactor Core I Rearranged and Spiked, and Core II with Special Components were analyzed under various off-design conditions to induce nucleate boiling. The steady state code, STDY-3, written for the thermal analysis of pressurized water cores, was employed for the analysis. The code performs a complete steady state parallel channel thermal analysis for both nominal and hot channels. Thermal characteristics of individual elements were investigated while changing the parameters of primary pressure or inlet temperature to introduce the phenomenon of nucleate boiling in the the core. Reduction of system pressures to 1000, 800, and 600 psia and increasing core inlet temperatures to 465 and 500 degree F were studied as the means to induce boiling in the core. This analysis indicates that SM-1 Core I Rearranged and Spiked can be safely operated at the reduced pressure of 910 psia without introducing extensive boiling in the core. SM-1 Core II with Special Components can be operated at 800 psia or at an inlet temperature of 500 degree F at 1200 psia.
A Low Voltage Ion Source: Describes the investigation of a particular method of extracting ions from an arc. Experimental results of a low extraction voltage ion source are given in some detail.
Maritime Loop Irradiation Program for Savannah I Fuel Post-Irradiation Examination of SI5BM Fuel Assembly: Abstract: A stainless steel clad 9-rod assembly fabricated by The Babcock & Wilcox Company was irradiated in a boiling water loop of the General Electric Test Reactor. A post-irradiation examination revealed no significant dimensional changes on the fuel rods. the results of mass spectrometric analysis made of the pelletized UO2 fuel indicated a maximum burnup of 11,500 MWD/tonne was attained by Rod B-4 during the exposure.An x-ray diffraction examination of an unirradiated fuel sample revealed the presence of UN2 and U2N3 phases. Metallographic examination of the irradiated microstructures revealed similar second-phase particles.
Maritime Loop Irradiation Program, S-I-5-B-M Fuel Irradiation Water Chemistry, Final Report: Introduction: The purpose of this technical report is to review the water chemistry methods and equipment developed for use with the Maritime Loop Irradiation Program conducted in the General Electric Test Reactor (GETR) from December 2, 1960 to July 19, 1962. Special emphasis is given to areas having general application to other high purity water systems. The Appendix includes a discussion of specific conductivity and pH in high purity water systems. A major section of this report is devoted to a review of gross activity levels on coupons of two different surface finishes exposed in the loop coolant system for various time intervals. A major objective of the chemistry program was to select or develop analytical methods such that the analyses could be performed at the loop location by technical personnel who normally operate the loop. By this means, frequent samples were obtained and analyzed directly thus providing close monitoring and control of the loop water chemistry at minimum expense.
Mechanical, Fluid Flow, and Heat Transfer Out-Of-Pile Tests on EVESR MKI Prototype Fuel Bundle: Summary: An EVESR MKI prototype fuel bundle was fully instrumented and operated intermittently for a 5-month period at the Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s Moss Landing Power Station. The vessel was operated up to 1000 psi with steam flows from 3000 to 26,600 lb/h, and steam inlet temperatures up to 825 degrees F. Data was recorded for blowout, vibration, flow distribution, heat transfer and pressure drop. The mechanical integrity of the fuel bundle, riser, and jumper system was satisfactory and considered to be of adequate design. No significant vibrations were noted during the various phases of operation. Average flow distribution in three of the inner tubes showed an average variation of 5 percent from equal distribution. The center and corner tubes were low and the side tube was high. Maximum deviation, from an equal one, measured 12 percent. Blowout of the flooded fuel bundle was accomplished with dry or significantly wet 1000 psia inlet steam, that steadied out to a minimum flow of 1250 lb/h. Blowout times were estimated at less than a minute for all flows above 1250 lb/h, and times in the vicinity of 2000 lb/h were estimated to be in the order of 5 to 15 seconds. Once the bundle was blown out a flow of 700 lb/h was sufficient to keep the fuel passages clear. This was true even with steam estimated at 10 to 20 percent wet. Flows below 1250 lb/h caused partial blowout. Usually the A tube blew out first and the B and C tubes gradually cleared as flow was increased. Los of flow then caused comparatively sudden flooding ranging from less than 2 to 3 seconds to several minutes for the different tubes within the bundle. Once the bundle was blown out and the flow maintained at more than 700 lb/h, not …
Mid-Year Summary Report October 1, 1960-March 31, 1961 Army Pwr Support and Development Program: Abstract: A cyclic stress analysis of the SM-1 primary system was carried out. Problems encountered in the fabrication of PM-2A Core II and SM-lA Core II are described, and the results of an examination of damaged SM-lA Core I stationary fuel elements reported. A preliminary study of the radiation damage to SM-1 reactor vessel was made and the possibility of annealing the vessel discussed. Performance analyses are presented for five cores: SM-1 Core, SM-1 Core 1 rearranged and spiked, SM-1 Core II with special components, PM-2A Core 1, and SM- 1A Core 1. Preliminary critical experiments were made with SM-2 elements in a SM- 1 core configuration and nuclear and thermal analyses of the use of SM-2 elements in SM-1, SM-1A, and PM-2A completed. A throttling steam calorimeter was selected for measuring moisture carry-over on the PM-2A steam generator. Test procedures for evaluating the shielding of the SM-1, SM-lA, and PM-2A plants are summarized. Radiochemical and chemical analyses of SM-1 coolant and crud are summarized, and methods of activity control discussed. Preliminary results of studies of the properties of reactor pressure vessels under irradiation and no irradiation conditions are summarized briefly.
Monitoring Thermal and Resonance Neutron Flux: The monitoring of thermal and resonance neutron flux in a thermal reactor having high flux over periods of time from 1 to 12 months using think Co foils is considered. Special attention is paid to the many correction factors to be applied to the activation data; neutron temperature, effective cadmium cutoff energy, burnout of Co59 and Co60, and decay of Co60. Results on a homogeneity test of 10 mil, 0.08% Co-A1 alloy foils is given.
Nuclear Measurements for Type 3 Replacement Cores for SM-1, SM-1A and PM-2A CE 3: Abstract: This technical report contains the description and results of an experimental program to evaluate the effect of utilizing Type 3 (SM-2) replacement cores in existing Army field plants SM-1, SM-1A and PM-2A. This program, conducted at the Alco Products Critical Facility, employed SM-2 mockup fuel elements similar in composition to Type 3 fuel elements to determine start-up characteristics of Type 3 cores in SM-1, SM-1A and PM-2A core configurations. measurements include comprehensive power distribution, temperature coefficients, initial critical bank positions, control rod calibrations, critical rod configuration and material coefficients, all obtained under cold, clean, core conditions. The 45 element SM-1 and SM-1A configuration with SM-2 mockup fuel elements contain 36.4 Kg U-235 and an estimated 67.9 gm B-10, while the 37 element PM-2A configuration with SM-2 mockup elements contains 30.0 Kb U-235 and an estimated 56 gm B-10.
Nuclear Superheat Project. Internal Steam Separation Development of Radial Vane Steam Separators: This technical report describes the development, design, operation, and performance of a full-circle, radial-vane steam separator for the boiling water section of a nuclear superheat reactor. Steam-water tests of this model have demonstrated that is has vane capacity in excess of that required for the 300-Mx(e) separate superheat reactor and for the 300-Mw mixed spectrum superheat reactor. It is proposed that the vane capacity requirement of the 600 Mw(e) separate superheat reactor may be attained by increasing the nozzle length.

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