Filter for a nuclear reactor containment ventilation system

Abstract

A wet filter for a nuclear reactor primary containment vent that employs an inclined manifold having a plurality of outlets that communicate through a first set of metal fiber filters submerged in a pool of water enclosed within a pressure vessel. A demister suspended above the pool of water to remove any entrained moisture in the filtered effluent before being passed through a second stage of higher density, dry, metal fiber filters connected to a second manifold that communicates with an outlet on the pressure vessel that is connected to an exhaust passage to the atmosphere.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application, filed under 35 U.S.C. § 119, subsection e, on June 6, 2012, is entitled "Wet Scrubber Using Fiber Filters for Containment Venting of Pressurized Water Reactors and Boiling Water Reactors" Priority of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 61 / 668,585. technical field [0003] The present invention relates generally to nuclear reactor containment ventilation systems, and more particularly to a wet filter for such systems. Background technique [0004] In many jurisdictions, nuclear power plants must be designed to ensure that, even in the event of an accident, a mechanism should be provided to prevent or minimize the escape of radioactive material and noble gases. In order to prevent the release of radioactive material, the reactor system is usually covered in a primary containment structure consisting of steel and reinforced concrete. Primary containment vessels are designed to withstand the high pr...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

While such systems can be effective, there is still room for improvement to reduce the size of such systems and increase their effectiveness in order to minimize any exposure that such releases might cause

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