Grid structure for supporting fuel rods in a nuclear reactor

Number of patents in Portfolio can not be more than 2000

United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 5444748
SERIAL NO

08222065

Stats

ATTORNEY / AGENT: (SPONSORED)

Importance

Loading Importance Indicators... loading....

Abstract

See full text

Disclosed is a grid structure for supporting fuel rods in a nuclear reactor. The grid structure is formed of a plurality of interconnected thin metal grid straps that are welded or brazed together to provide a structural network of interconnected open grid cells, similar to an 'egg crate divider'. The grid straps are provided at regular intervals, corresponding to the width of a grid cell, with pairs of spaced, substantially horizontal, slotted spring-like projections and a substantially X-shaped spring-like projection vertically intermediate the horizontal projections. The spring-like projections are designed to support and hold the fuel rods within the grid cells under both balanced and unbalanced forces acting on the fuel rod assembly while it is in service, surrounded by coolant in the nuclear reactor.

Loading the Abstract Image... loading....

First Claim

See full text

Family

Loading Family data... loading....

Patent Owner(s)

Patent OwnerAddress
WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC CO LLCWESTINGHOUSE LEGAL - IP P O BOX 355 PITTSBURGH PA 15230-0355

International Classification(s)

  • [Classification Symbol]
  • [Patents Count]

Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Beuchel, Peter H Columbia, SC 4 43
Lee, Yu C Columbia, SC 8 60
Sparrow, James A Columbia, SC 21 334

Cited Art Landscape

Load Citation

Patent Citation Ranking

Forward Cite Landscape

Load Citation