Location History:
- Edgewood, KY (US) (1995)
- Wilmington, NC (US) (1999 - 2024)
Company Filing History:
4 out of 301 
2 out of 91 
1 out of 51,886 
Years Active: 1995-2025
Title: Innovations by Charles Lee Heck
Introduction
Charles Lee Heck is a notable inventor based in Wilmington, NC (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of nuclear energy through his innovative patents. With a total of 8 patents, his work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and safety of coolant systems in nuclear reactors.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is titled "Systems and methods for reducing noncondensable gas buildup in coolant systems." This invention aims to reduce noncondensable gases within coolant systems by utilizing a recombiner through which the fluid coolant flows. The flow through the recombiner may be opposite that of a heat exchanger. The recombiner includes a catalyst that combines or degrades noncondensable gases, such as a Group 9-11 transition metal that accelerates the reaction of these gases. The design may include a liner, plate, or aggregate with openings that all coolant must flow through. Additionally, the recombiner may be insulated to prevent heat exchange and condensation, and it can be tilted to enhance draining and fluid flow. This entire system can operate passively without any operator intervention or moving structures.
Another significant patent is the "Dual-mode heat removal system," which allows for first-direction natural circulation flow through a heat exchanger during nuclear reactor emergency cooling. It also permits opposite-direction forced flow through the heat exchanger during decay heat removal. The piping loops can carry either forced or natural circulation coolant flow from and back to a nuclear reactor, depending on the reactor and coolant state, and can transition between the two. The heat exchanger cools the coolant and may even condense it. This system can be installed directly on existing isolation condenser systems or can be integrated with primary loops generating electricity commercially.
Career Highlights
Charles has worked with prominent companies in the nuclear energy sector, including GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Americas LLC and Global Nuclear Fuel - Americas, LLC. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in developing innovative solutions for nuclear power systems.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Charles has collaborated with notable individuals such as James Courtney Shaug and Francis Thomas Bolger. These partnerships have likely enriched his work and led to advancements in the field.
Conclusion
Charles Lee Heck's contributions to the field of nuclear energy through his innovative patents demonstrate his commitment to improving safety and efficiency in coolant
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.