Siemens Power Corporation, Inc.

Leo E Hansen

Richard G McClelland

Howard D Cross

A method and apparatus for eliminating erroneous test readings during ultrasonic testing of nuclear fuel rods is disclosed. The method and apparatus employ the use of an alignment guide to effect temporary alignment of the fuel rods during testing in order to overcome mechanical deviations of the rods. The alignment guide includes elongated, parallel guide bars for insertion into an array prior to ultrasonic testing. The bars are mounted on a base which, in turn, is movably mounted on a support element. A fixed guide maintains the relative position of the guide bars with respect to one another. A hydraulic element causes the guide bars to be inserted and removed from the fuel array. In a preferred arrangement, the alignment guide may be removably mounted on a frame containing the ultrasonic testing equipment.

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Bellevue, WA, United States of America

Leo E Hansen