Alsthom-atlantique

Bernard Bioret

Robert Pierart

Serge Holub

Joseph Michaut

A device for limiting a leak in the event of a rupture in pipework (1, 2), the device being characterized in that it comprises two flanges (4, 5) mounted on the pipework on respective sides of a section (3) of the pipework to be protected, the two flanges being assembled to each other by assembly means (10, 11) including members (12) having axial resilience leaving the duct free to expand axially, each flange including means (6, 7, 8, 9) for securing it axially on the pipework, and being itself constituted merely by two half-collars (5A, 5B) that are assembled together.

Apparatus for limiting a leak in the event of a rupture in pipework

Hydraulic jacks are arranged radially both inside and outside the confinement chamber (EC), substantially on a level with the center of gravity of the boiler (BV, EA) disposed inside. The inside jacks transmit thrust to the boiler via an annular floor (20). The outside jacks transmit thrust to the walls (M) of the hall. The outside jacks are arranged as energy-absorbing dampers. The inside and outside jacks resist fast compression by means of calibrated fluid flow orifices, while they expand readily by means of one way valves and pressure accumulators. The boiler and the confinement chamber stand on a base that is resiliently movable in a horizontal direction relative to the raft (R) of the building. This ensures that the reactor is returned to its normal position once an earthquake is over.

Growing community of inventors

Nantes, France

Bernard Bioret