Commissariat a L'energie Atomique

Bernard Gallet

Robert Venot

Robert Saglio

Alain Samoel

Alain Castaing

Bernard Blanc

Jean Clasquin

Jean Boudou

A hexagonal ring structure whose internal contour conforms to the external contour of the reactor core rests on the periphery of the reactor diagrid and is constituted by a plurality of layers of metallic plates. The layers are maintained in relative positional relation by means of clamping members, the plates of one layer being angularly displaced with respect to the plates of adjacent layers. The bottom end-connectors of the elements constituting the lateral shield system are fitted in vertical through-holes formed in the ring structure.

Support structure for the lateral neutron shield system of a fast

The upper portion of a hollow cylindrical spacer column is rigidly fixed to the reactor diagrid and supports a fuel assembly end-fitting by means of a removable sleeve having a conical bearing surface for sealing and centering the fuel assembly. The sleeve is engaged in interfitting relation with the column head and secured thereto by means of a removable annular weld connection.

Fuel assembly support column for a nuclear reactor diagrid

A self-propelled carriage for inspecting the primary vessel of a fast reactor is capable of displacement within the interspace between the primary vessel and the containment vessel in order to inspect and test any predetermined zone of the primary vessel, the carriage being associated with a drive mechanism and applied against the oppositely-facing wall of the containment vessel. The carriage is suspended from a composite cable actuated by a handling apparatus for introducing the carriage into the interspace and withdrawing it therefrom. The composite cable supplies electric power as well as the different fluids required for positioning and operation of the inspection devices which are mounted on the carriage.

Device for remote inspection and testing of a structure

Growing community of inventors

Bruyeres le Chatel, France

Bernard Gallet