Importance

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Abstract

A bimetallic spacer for supporting fuel rods in position in a nuclear reactor fuel assembly substantially comprises inner and outer structural elements of a first metallic material and spring elements of a second metallic material. The structural and spring elements together define a lattice, the interstices of which receive the individual fuel rods. The structural elements and spring elements in the spacer are connected together by forming the structural elements with openings and fitting the ends of the spring elements in the openings. At one end of the opening in the structural element, two slots can be provided for forming a tongue-shaped member which is moved aside to make space for the spring element and then moves back when the end of the spring element is in position, thus preventing a possible vertical return movement of the end of the spring element.

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First Claim