Michael E Conner

Title: Inventor Spotlight: Michael E. Conner

Introduction: Michael E. Conner, an innovative inventor based in Elgin, SC, has made significant contributions to nuclear reactor technology. With two patents to his name, Conner's work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and safety of nuclear power generation.

Latest Patents: Conner's latest patents include the development of an Advanced Gray Rod Control Assembly (GRCA) specifically designed for nuclear reactors. This assembly allows for controlled insertion of gray rod assemblies into the reactor, which is essential for regulating the power output and providing reactivity control at full power. Each gray rod assembly features an elongated tubular member containing a primary neutron absorber, primarily tungsten, designed with a neutron absorption microscopic capture cross-section ranging from 10 to 30 barns. Furthermore, an internal support tube acts as a secondary absorber to improve neutron absorption, manage absorber depletion, and enhance the assembly's heat transfer characteristics.

Additionally, Conner has patented a Nuclear Fuel Assembly Support Grid constructed from an array of orthogonally arranged straps in an egg-crate formation. This design includes angled leading and trailing edges that disrupt the correlation of vortices, reducing the risk of resonant vibrations that could compromise the integrity of the grid straps.

Career Highlights: Michael E. Conner is presently working with Westinghouse Electric Company LLC, a premier player in the nuclear energy sector. His innovative contributions to nuclear technology illustrate his commitment to improving energy production methods.

Collaborations: Throughout his career, Conner has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Keith J. Drudy and William R. Carlson, further enriching his team with diverse knowledge and expertise in the field. Their collective efforts significantly enhance the impact of their inventions in the nuclear industry.

Conclusion: Michael E. Conner stands out as a notable inventor whose advancements in nuclear reactor technology are shaping the future of energy generation. His innovative spirit and dedication to research and development continue to inspire progress within the industry, promising a more efficient and safer path for nuclear energy.