Susan C Delzell

Title: Susan C. Delzell and Her Nuclear Fuel Assembly Patent

Introduction

Susan C. Delzell is an inventor associated with Murrysville, Pennsylvania, and Westinghouse Electric Corporation. Her patent work includes an invention concerning the design and structural support of a nuclear fuel assembly.

Latest Patents

Delzell is credited with 1 patent, titled “Nuclear Fuel Assembly.” The invention describes an assembly divided into four elongated fuel sections by a central water cross made from four metal angles. The cross provides a central path for subcooled neutron moderator, while a separate fuel bundle occupies each section.

Each bundle contains upper and lower tie plates connected by fuel rods. The design also describes upper tie plates with pins that fit into apertures in the upper yoke, restraining lateral movement while allowing axial movement. The outer flow channel is secured to the yoke and base, allowing the assembly to be lifted without placing lifting stresses on the fuel rods. Structural ribs, locking pins, and an integrated lifting handle help secure and handle the assembly as a unit.

Career Highlights

Delzell’s documented patent contribution addresses both the arrangement of fuel bundles and the structural features used to support and handle a nuclear fuel assembly. The patent identifies Westinghouse Electric Corporation as the company associated with her work.

Collaborations

The patent lists John F. Wilson and Theodore W. Nylund among Delzell’s coworkers. Their names provide context for the collaborative engineering environment associated with the invention.

Conclusion

Susan C. Delzell’s patent describes a nuclear fuel assembly designed to organize fuel bundles, provide a central moderator-flow path, and support safe handling of the assembly as a unit.