Damon E Haley, Jr

Title: Damon E Haley, Jr: Innovator in Nuclear Fuel Technology

Introduction

Damon E Haley, Jr. is a notable inventor based in Sumter, SC (US), recognized for his contributions to nuclear fuel technology. He holds two patents that showcase his innovative approach to enhancing the efficiency and safety of fuel rod handling systems.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is an Automated Nuclear Fuel Rod Pattern Loading System. This apparatus is designed for loading fuel rods in a desired enrichment pattern and includes a carousel, an elongated fuel rod storage magazine, and a fuel rod verification and feed workstation. The carousel features multiple gondolas that are movable and stocked with fuel rods of known enrichments. The magazine is structured with a matrix of elongated slots that are open at their forward ends for receiving fuel rods. The workstation defines a fuel rod feed path that extends between the carousel and the magazine, allowing for the sequential feeding of fuel rods from selected gondolas. An optical scanning and reading unit is integrated into the workstation to verify the identity of the fuel rods, ensuring accuracy in the loading process. The magazine holder and indexing mechanism support the magazine and enable movement along X-Y axes to align selected slots with the feed path for efficient loading.

Career Highlights

Damon E Haley, Jr. is currently employed at Westinghouse Electric Corporation, where he applies his expertise in nuclear technology. His work focuses on developing systems that improve the handling and processing of nuclear fuel, contributing to advancements in the energy sector.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Damon has collaborated with notable colleagues, including David V Lambert and Theodore W Nylund. These partnerships have fostered innovation and enhanced the development of cutting-edge technologies in the field.

Conclusion

Damon E Haley, Jr. stands out as a significant figure in the realm of nuclear fuel technology, with his patents reflecting a commitment to innovation and safety. His contributions continue to influence the industry and pave the way for future advancements.