Location History:
- Wlimington, NC (US) (2010)
- Wilmington, NC (US) (2009 - 2021)
Company Filing History:
12 out of 91 
2 out of 301 Years Active: 2009-2024
Title: **Innovator Spotlight: Carlton Wayne Clark**
Introduction
Carlton Wayne Clark, an accomplished inventor located in Wilmington, NC, has made significant contributions to the field of nuclear energy through his innovative approaches to debris filtration. With a total of 14 patents to his name, his latest inventions focus on improving the efficiency and safety of nuclear fuel assemblies.
Latest Patents
Among his most recent patents, Carlton Wayne Clark developed methods for forming debris filters specifically designed for nuclear fuel assemblies. These debris filters are engineered to fit within the lower tie plates of fuel assemblies, efficiently filtering fluids that pass through them. The design incorporates a series of adjacent plates featuring aligned peaks and valleys to create multiple channels. In addition, the plates are equipped with small excisions shaped like diamonds, triangles, or other debris-catching forms, strategically placed near the filter's entry point for fluid.
These excisions alternate around the channel circumference, such as with four cut-outs positioned at 90-degree intervals. Their size is calibrated to capture smaller debris typical in reactor coolant flow, which can cause wear and potential damage to fuel cladding. Carlton's innovation also allows for multiple vertical stages within the filters, incorporating different channels for each stage, with ligaments connecting the stages while allowing for intermixing. The entire assembly, including plates and excisions, can be formed in a single stamping operation, thereby minimizing waste and ensuring operational efficiency.
Career Highlights
Carlton Wayne Clark has notably worked with Global Nuclear Fuel - Americas, LLC, where his contribution to nuclear technology is highly regarded. His career reflects a commitment to advancing methods that enhance the safety and reliability of nuclear energy operations.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Carlton has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including William Earl Russell II and David Grey Smith, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his projects. These partnerships have paved the way for innovative solutions in the nuclear sector, further reinforcing the importance of teamwork in the field of invention.
Conclusion
Carlton Wayne Clark exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the nuclear industry. His patents not only reflect his inventive prowess but also underscore the critical need for advancements in energy safety and efficiency. As he continues to develop novel filtration solutions, Carlton remains a key figure in the evolution of nuclear technology, inspiring future generations of inventors.