This inventor holds 6 USPTO granted patents. Top assignees: Westinghouse Electric Corporation, Westinghouse Electric Company LLC. Active years: 1987-2017.
Location History:
- West Columbia, SC (US) (1987 - 1990)
- Columbia, SC (US) (1989 - 2017)
Company Filing History:
5 out of 8,033 
1 out of 662 
Years Active: 1987-2017
Title: The Innovations of Kenneth K Klapper
Introduction
Kenneth K Klapper is a notable inventor based in Columbia, SC (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of nuclear technology, holding a total of 6 patents. His work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and safety of nuclear fuel systems.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is for a nuclear fuel element, which features a top end plug design for a nuclear fuel rod or control rod. This design maximizes the fuel rod length and internal volume for high burn-up while limiting plenum spring melting for eutectic formation margin. The press fit length of the top end plug is increased to enhance the distance from the center of heat generated by the TIG welding process that seals the end plug to the cladding. Additionally, a hole in the back of the end plug is enlarged to recover the volume loss from the increased press fit length.
Another significant patent is for a nuclear fuel pellet sintering boat unloading apparatus and method. This apparatus includes a transfer housing that is pivotally movable between an upright position, which is remote from a pellet deposit site, and an inverted position adjacent to the deposit site. The housing can also convert between opened and closed conditions. In its upright position and closed condition, the housing receives a sintering boat loaded with nuclear fuel pellets and retains the pellets within the boat as it is moved from upright to inverted orientations. An actuator is used to pivot the housing, and a latch member secures the housing in its closed condition during this process.
Career Highlights
Kenneth has worked with prominent companies in the nuclear industry, including Westinghouse Electric Corporation and Westinghouse Electric Company LLC. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to develop innovative solutions that address critical challenges in nuclear fuel management.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Kenneth has collaborated with talented individuals such as David A Boatwright and Wade H Widener. These partnerships have contributed to the advancement of his inventions and the overall progress in the field.
Conclusion
Kenneth K Klapper's contributions to nuclear technology through his patents and collaborations highlight his role as an influential inventor. His work continues to impact the industry positively, ensuring safer and more efficient nuclear fuel systems.