Anti-rotation arrangement for thermowells

Abstract

An arrangement and device for reducing and / or preventing wear of a thermowell in a nuclear reactor are disclosed. The arrangement includes a first structure disposed on or within a thermowell and a second structure disposed on or within a head penetration adapter. At least a portion of the first structure and at least another portion of the second structure interact to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell about its central axis relative to the head penetration adapter. The device includes a substrate coupled to a conduit of the nuclear reactor and a plurality of protruding members extending upwardly from the substrate. Each member has a portion that engages with a corresponding portion of a guide funnel of the thermowell.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 810,180, filed on February 25, 2019, entitled “ANTI-ROTATION ARRANGEMENT FOR THERMAL SLEEVES”, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 833,066, filed on April 12, 2019, entitled “WEAR REDUCING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THERMAL SLEEVES”, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 853,976, filed on May 29, 2019, entitled “WEAR REDUCING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THERMAL SLEEVES”, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 864,857, filed on June 21, 2019, entitled “WEAR REDUCING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THERMAL SLEEVES,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] The disclosed concepts generally relate to thermowells and, more particularly, to arrangements for resisting, reducing and / or preventing rotation of thermowells used in nuclear reactors. The disclosed concepts also relate to methods of installing such arrangements.

[0004] Based on the operating experience of many nuclear power plants, it is clear that there is a need to extend the life of thermowells used in nuclear reactors. Wear of thermowell flanges was first discovered in 2014 when a part-length sleeve failed. Since then, inspections have been recommended and acceptance criteria have been established. Recently (December 2017), two additional thermowell failures in rod-type locations were discovered.

[0005] FIG. 1A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the upper portion of a conventional nuclear reactor 2, showing a portion of a reactor vessel 4 penetrated by a plurality of head penetration adapters 6 extending downwardly from a control rod drive mechanism (CRDM) housing 8. Continuing to refer to FIG. 1A and Figure 1B, a cross-sectional view of a thermowell 10 including a guide funnel 12 is positioned within each head penetration adapter 6 below each CRDM housing 8 such that each guide funnel 12 is positioned directly above and spaced a distance from a corresponding conduit 14 extending from an upper support plate 16 within the reactor vessel 4. The thermowell 10 is received within the head penetration adapter 6 within the reactor vessel 4, but the region 15 ( Figure 1B ) except within the region where the thermowell 10 is exposed to the reactor coolant.

[0006] The current view is that Figure 1A and Figure 1B The wear of the thermowell 10 and the head penetration adapter 6 in the illustrated region 13 is the result of rotation of the thermowell 10 within the head penetration adapter 6 about the central axis 18 of the thermowell 10. It is believed that eddy currents in the reactor coolant flowing within the reactor vessel 4 contact the thermowell 10 (i.e., region 15), causing the thermowell 10 to rotate about its central axis 18 relative to the head penetration adapter 6. Summary of the invention

[0007] Embodiments of the disclosed concepts extend the life of thermowells employed in nuclear reactors by reducing wear on such thermowells and associated components due to rotation of the thermowells within a head penetration adapter. Generally speaking, embodiments of the present invention utilize structures that are easily attached during installation of a thermowell or retrofitting an installed thermowell that resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell, yet still allow axial movement of the thermowell, e.g., due to thermal expansion / contraction and / or to allow passage of reactor coolant when necessary. In other words, structures that can be attached to the thermowell and / or head penetration adapter are configured to resist rotation of the thermowell, which may be caused by turbulence of coolant flowing within the reactor in contact with the thermowell.

[0008] As one aspect of the disclosed concept, an arrangement is provided for resisting, reducing and / or preventing rotation and / or precession of a thermowell about its central axis relative to a head penetration adapter in a nuclear reactor. The arrangement includes: a first structure disposed on or in the thermowell; and a second structure disposed on or in the head penetration adapter, wherein the first structure and the second structure are configured to be operably engaged to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell about the central axis relative to the head penetration adapter while allowing axial movement of the thermowell relative to the head penetration adapter.

[0009] The first structure may include a first ring configured to be coupled to one of a thermowell or a head penetration adapter, the first ring having a plurality of rod members extending therefrom, each rod member extending along a respective rod axis, the rod axis being positioned parallel to the central axis when the first structure is coupled to one of the thermowell or the head penetration adapter, wherein the second structure includes a second ring configured to be coupled to the other of the thermowell or the head penetration adapter, the second ring having a plurality of through holes formed therein, each through hole being arranged about the through hole axis, the through hole axis being positioned parallel to the central axis when the second ring is coupled to the other of the thermowell or the head penetration adapter, and wherein each rod member of the first ring is configured to slidingly engage a corresponding through hole of the second ring in a manner such that they resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell about the central axis relative to the head penetration adapter while allowing axial movement of the thermowell relative to the head penetration adapter.

[0010] The first ring may be formed of a stainless steel material, and the second ring may be formed of an alloy.

[0011] The second ring may include an internally threaded portion configured to engage with a mating externally threaded portion of the head feedthrough adapter.

[0012] The second ring may include an inner stepped portion configured to receive a lower end of the head feedthrough adapter.

[0013] The second ring may include a first segment and a second segment selectively coupleable to the first segment.

[0014] The plurality of rod members may include two rod members.

[0015] The first ring may be divided into a first section and a second section.

[0016] The first section and the second section may each include an interlocking portion, wherein the first section and the second section can be coupled together via the interlocking portion.

[0017] The first ring may include a first piece and a second piece separate from the first piece, the first piece may include one of the plurality of rod members, and the second piece may include another of the plurality of rod members.

[0018] Each rod member may have a non-circular cross-section, and each through-hole may have a correspondingly shaped non-circular cross-section.

[0019] One of the first structure or the second structure may include a mechanical clamp configured to mechanically couple one of the first structure or the second structure to the thermowell or the head feedthrough adapter.

[0020] One of the first configuration or the second configuration may include a split clamp configured to be coupled to the thermowell, the split clamp being formed of two sections configured to be selectively coupled together via a threaded fastener.

[0021] One of the two segments may include a recess formed therein for engagement by a crimping portion of one of the threaded fasteners.

[0022] One of the first structure or the second structure may further include a rod, the other of the first structure or the second structure may include an axial slot formed in the head through-piece adapter, and each rod may be configured to engage with a corresponding axial slot.

[0023] The first structure may include a body portion configured to be coupled to a head feedthrough adapter, the body portion may include a plurality of horizontally oriented holes formed therein, wherein each hole receives a sliding member therein, and the second structure may include a plurality of slots defined in the thermal sleeve, and each sliding member may be configured to engage with a corresponding slot.

[0024] As another aspect of the disclosed concept, a device for resisting, reducing and / or preventing wear of a thermowell of a nuclear reactor is provided. The device includes a base configured to be coupled to a conduit of a nuclear reactor and a plurality of protruding elements or members extending upwardly from the base. Each member is configured to engage with a corresponding portion of a guide funnel of the thermowell.

[0025] The base may comprise a substantially circular ring.

[0026] The ring may include a plurality of apertures defined therein.

[0027] The base may further include a circumferential lip extending downwardly therefrom, wherein the circumferential lip is sized and configured to engage an exterior of the catheter.

[0028] The base may further include a plurality of collars, each collar being disposed around a corresponding one of the holes and extending upwardly from the base.

[0029] Each protruding member may include an outwardly facing surface arranged at an angle corresponding to the angle of the inner conical surface of the guide funnel.

[0030] Each outwardly facing surface is sized and configured to engage a corresponding portion of the inner conical surface of the guide funnel.

[0031] The outwardly facing surface of each protruding member may include a key extending further outwardly therefrom, each key being sized and configured to matingly engage a corresponding slot defined in the guide funnel.

[0032] Each key may include a vertically oriented ridge member.

[0033] Each protruding member may include an inward notch sized and configured to engage a portion of an outer periphery of a guide funnel coupled to the thermowell.

[0034] As yet another aspect of the disclosed concept, there is provided a method of installing any of the above-described arrangements and / or devices. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The various features and advantages of the embodiments described herein may be understood from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are as follows:

[0036] FIG1A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the upper portion of a conventional nuclear reactor;

[0037] Figure 1B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a conventional reactor vessel head penetration showing a CRDM housing, a head penetration adapter, and a thermowell;

[0038] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an apparatus for resisting, reducing and / or preventing rotation of a thermowell about its central axis relative to a head penetration adapter in a nuclear reactor according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded view of the device;

[0040] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of a portion of the device coupled to a lower portion of a head penetration adapter;

[0041] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of a portion of a device coupled to a lower portion of a head feedthrough adapter via a weld;

[0042] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A side perspective view of a first portion of the device, the first portion being positioned on the lower portion of the head penetration adapter, wherein Figure 2 The second portion of the device is loosely positioned over the lower portion of the thermowell;

[0043] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 2 A side perspective view of the second portion of the device, the second portion being secured to the thermowell and to the lower portion of the head feedthrough adapter. Figure 2 engaging a first portion of the device;

[0044] Figure 8 It is to show that according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, Figure 2 and Figure 3 A perspective view of an alternative ring employed in an arrangement of.

[0045] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 A perspective view of a ring secured to the end of a head penetration adapter via a weld;

[0046] Fig.10 is a top perspective view showing a multi-piece ring in an unassembled state according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the multi-piece ring being Figure 2 and Figure 3 The arrangement is adopted;

[0047] Fig.11 It is in assembled state Fig.10 A top perspective view of a multi-piece ring;

[0048] Fig.12 is located on the lower end of the head feedthrough adapter Fig.10 and Fig.11 A perspective view of a multi-piece ring;

[0049] Fig.13 It is fixed to the lower end of the head feedthrough adapter via a weld Fig.10 and Fig.11 A perspective view of a multi-piece ring;

[0050] Fig.14 is a bottom perspective view showing a multi-piece first ring coupled to a thermowell via a weld and coupled to a lower end of a head feedthrough adapter according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure Fig.10 and Fig.11 Multi-piece ring joint;

[0051] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 a side perspective view of an arrangement of further illustrating the location of cutting and welding the thermowell to allow for mounting of the structure of the arrangement on the head feedthrough adapter and the thermowell;

[0052] Fig.16 is a perspective view of another apparatus for resisting, reducing and / or preventing rotation of a thermowell about its central axis relative to a head penetration adapter in a nuclear reactor according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0053] Fig.17 yes Fig.16 A perspective view of a device showing a first structure and a second structure of the device, the first structure and the second structure being coupled to a lower portion of a thermowell and a head feedthrough adapter, respectively;

[0054] Fig.18is a perspective view of yet another apparatus for resisting, reducing and / or preventing rotation of a thermowell about its central axis relative to a head penetration adapter in a nuclear reactor according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0055] Fig.19 yes Fig.18 A perspective view of a device showing a first structure and a second structure of the device, the first structure and the second structure being coupled to a lower portion of a thermowell and a head feedthrough adapter, respectively;

[0056] Fig. 20 is along Fig.18 The line 20-20 is intercepted Fig.18 A perspective cross-sectional view of a device;

[0057] Fig.21 is along Fig.18 The line 21-21 is intercepted Fig.18 A side cross-sectional view of a device;

[0058] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of an apparatus for resisting, reducing and / or preventing rotation of a thermowell about its central axis relative to a head penetration adapter in a nuclear reactor in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the apparatus taking the form of a split clamp for use in an arrangement;

[0059] Fig.23 is with Fig. 22 A perspective view of a fastener used with the device;

[0060] Fig.24 yes Fig. 22 An enlarged view of a portion of the device showing a portion of the device formed for Fig.23 A pocket in which a crimped portion of the fastener engages;

[0061] Fig.25 yes Fig.23 A perspective view of a device coupled to a thermal sleeve adjacent a lower end of a head penetration adapter and engaging an axial slot formed in the head penetration adapter;

[0062] Fig.26 is a perspective view of an apparatus for resisting, reducing and / or preventing rotation of a thermowell about its central axis relative to a head penetration adapter in a nuclear reactor according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0063] Fig. 27 yes Fig.26 A perspective view of a device showing a first structure and a second structure of the device, the first structure and the second structure being coupled to a lower portion of a thermowell and a head feedthrough adapter, respectively;

[0064] Fig.28 is a perspective view of another apparatus configured to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of a thermowell about its central axis relative to a head penetration adapter in a nuclear reactor in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0065] Fig.29 yes Fig.28 A perspective view of a device secured to the bottom of a head penetration adapter via a weld;

[0066] Fig.30 is a perspective view of a portion of a thermowell including a Fig.28 An axial cutout for use with a device;

[0067] Fig.31 is along Fig.29 The line 31-31 is intercepted Fig.29 A cross-sectional view of

[0068] Fig.32 is a perspective view of an arrangement of conduits of a nuclear reactor showing a modification to one of the conduits according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0069] Fig.33 is a perspective view of a wear reduction device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0070] Fig.34 yes Fig.33 Another perspective view of the wear mitigation device;

[0071] Fig.35 is a perspective view of a guide funnel configured to be mounted on a lower portion of a thermowell according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0072] Fig.36A is similar to Fig.32 A perspective view of the arrangement of the catheters showing Fig.33 and Fig.34 Wear reduction devices and Fig.35 a guide funnel, the wear reduction device being mounted on one of the conduits, the guide funnel being engaged with the wear reduction device in a first position;

[0073] Fig.36B is similar to Fig.32 A perspective view of the arrangement of the catheters showing Fig.33 and Fig.34 Wear reduction devices and Fig.35 The wear reduction device is mounted on one of the conduits and the guide funnel is disposed in a manner similar to that of the guide funnel. Fig.36A engaging the wear reduction device in a second position different from the first position shown;

[0074] Fig.37 According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure Fig.36A An enlarged view showing the Fig.34 The invention also provides an interaction of a wear relief device of the embodiment of the present invention with a fastening mechanism secured to a conduit, and further illustrates a crimping collar of the wear relief device for inhibiting unwanted rotation of the fastening mechanism;

[0075] Fig.38 is a top perspective view of a wear reduction device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0076] Fig.39 is similar to Fig.32 A perspective view of the arrangement of the catheters showing Fig.38 a wear relief device and a guide funnel, the wear relief device being mounted on one of the conduits, the guide funnel attached to the lower portion of the thermowell engaging with the wear relief device;

[0077] Fig.40 is a perspective view of a wear reduction device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0078] Fig.41 is similar to Fig.32 A perspective view of the arrangement of the catheters showing Fig.40 a wear relief device and a guide funnel, the wear relief device being mounted on one of the conduits, the guide funnel attached to the lower portion of the thermowell engaging with the wear relief device;

[0079] Fig.42 is a perspective view of a wear reduction device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0080] Fig.43 yes Fig.42 an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a wear reduction device;

[0081] Fig.44 is similar to Fig.32 A perspective view of the arrangement of the catheters showing Fig.42 Wear reduction devices and Fig.35 a guide funnel, the wear reduction device being mounted on one of the conduits, the guide funnel being engaged with the wear reduction device;

[0082] Fig.45 yes Fig.44 A top view of the arrangement;

[0083] Fig.46 is a perspective view of a wear reduction device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0084] Fig.47is a perspective view of a wear reduction device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0085] Fig.48 is a perspective view of a wear reduction device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0086] Fig.49 yes Fig.48 an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a wear reduction device;

[0087] Fig.50 yes Fig.48 A side elevation view of a wear reduction device;

[0088] Fig.51 yes Fig.48 a cross-sectional view of a portion of a wear reduction device;

[0089] Fig.52A is used with Fig.48 A perspective view of a crimp cup for use with a wear mitigation device;

[0090] Fig.52B yes Fig.48 A perspective view of an arm member of a wear reduction device;

[0091] Fig.52C yes Fig.48 A perspective view of a clamping wedge of a wear mitigation device;

[0092] Fig.53 is similar to Fig.32 A perspective view of the arrangement of the catheters showing Fig.48 Wear reduction devices and e.g. Fig.35 The guide funnel shown, the wear reduction device is mounted on one of the conduits, the guide funnel engaging with the wear reduction device;

[0093] Fig.54 yes Fig.53 A top view of the arrangement;

[0094] Fig.55A is similar to Fig.32 A perspective view of the arrangement of the catheters showing Fig.48 Wear reduction devices and e.g. Fig.35 a guide funnel as shown, the wear reduction device being mounted on one of the conduits, the guide funnel being engaged with the wear reduction device in a first position;

[0095] Fig.55B is similar to Fig.32 A perspective view of the arrangement of the catheters showing Fig.48 Wear reduction devices and e.g. Fig.35The guide funnel shown in the figure, the wear reduction device is installed on one of the conduits, and the guide funnel is connected to the guide funnel. Fig.55A engaging the wear reduction device in a second position different from the first position shown in FIG.

[0096] Fig.56 yes Fig.55B side elevation view of an arrangement of wherein the guide funnel is shown in hidden lines to better illustrate the interaction between the guide funnel and the wear mitigation device;

[0097] Fig.57 is assembled to a guide funnel (e.g., Fig.39 A perspective view of a wear reduction device on a guide funnel shown;

[0098] Fig.58 yes Fig.57 Another perspective view of the wear reduction device and guide funnel;

[0099] Fig.59 yes Fig.57 A side elevation view of the wear reduction device and guide funnel;

[0100] Fig.60 yes Fig.57 A top view of the wear reduction device and guide funnel;

[0101] Fig.61 yes Fig.57 A bottom view of the wear reduction device and guide funnel;

[0102] Fig.62 is assembled to a guide funnel (e.g., Fig.39 A perspective view of a wear reduction device on a guide funnel shown;

[0103] Fig.63 yes Fig.62 A top view of the wear reduction device and guide funnel;

[0104] Fig.64 is a perspective view of a wear reduction device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0105] Fig.65 is a perspective view of another guide funnel mounted on a lower portion of a thermowell according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0106] Fig.66 and Fig.67 is similar to Fig.32 A perspective view of the arrangement of the catheters showing Fig.64 Wear reduction devices and Fig.65a guide funnel, the wear reduction device being mounted on one of the conduits, the guide funnel being engaged with the wear reduction device; and

[0107] Fig.68 yes Fig.66 and Fig.67 Cross-sectional front view of the wear reduction device and guide funnel.

[0108] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views.The exemplifications described herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0109] It was observed that the thermowell between the upper head on the thermowell and the head penetration adapter was worn. This wear was observed by measuring using laser metrology to determine the amount of "drop" of a particular thermowell relative to the head penetration adapter. As part of the innovation program, a method of removing worn thermowells and replacing them with temporary "compressible thermowells" was developed that did not require the CRDM motor assembly to be removed from the top side of the reactor head. This method and replacement of the thermowell are described in pending U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 262,037, entitled "THERMAL SLEEVE," filed on January 30, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. However, the mechanism of the failure (i.e., wear of the thermowell and the head penetration adapter) has not been addressed, and the compressible thermowell is very likely to continue to wear with the head penetration adapter in a manner similar to the worn thermowell that has been replaced.

[0110] A solution to reduce and / or prevent this wear is to install a device on the head penetration adapter that will create an interface for a second device attached to the thermowell. Once the two devices are in place and docked with each other, the freedom of the thermowell will be limited, thereby eliminating rotation around the central axis of the thermowell. Embodiments of this concept generally utilize an annular or similar structure that is attached to the head penetration adapter by various methods depending on the design of the head penetration adapter. The device can be attached to the thread of the head penetration adapter or to the interface with the outer diameter of the head penetration adapter. The device is fixed and retained by any suitable mechanical means, such as but not limited to welding, clamping, nailing, tightening, etc. and / or combinations thereof. In at least one embodiment, the device is integrated with the head penetration adapter. The device includes features such as holes, grooves, splines or keyways, which are engaged by mating devices attached to the thermowell. The device attached to the thermowell can be attached by any suitable mechanical means, such as welding, clamping, nailing, tightening, etc. In at least one embodiment, the device attached to the thermowell is integrated with the thermowell design. The engagement of the splines or keys will prevent most relative rotational movement of the thermowell and the head penetration adapter. This movement is a source of wear that can lead to failure of the thermowell. By limiting this movement, the functional life of the thermowell is greatly extended. In at least one embodiment, the device resists, reduces and / or prevents rotational movement of the thermowell relative to the head penetration adapter while allowing some axial movement of the thermowell relative to the head penetration adapter.

[0111] There are two common applications for this type of solution. The first application is to incorporate the device into a replacement compressible thermowell. The second application is to bond the device to an existing thermowell that has shown some wear within acceptable limits.

[0112] For example, alternative designs include attaching the device to a head penetration adapter that interfaces with features machined into the thermowell to meet the design intent of resisting, reducing and / or preventing rotation and / or translation (one or both).

[0113] Before explaining various aspects of the present disclosure in detail, it should be noted that the application or use of the illustrative examples is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components shown in the drawings and the specification. The illustrative examples may be implemented or incorporated in other aspects, variations and modifications, and may be practiced or performed in various ways. In addition, unless otherwise stated, the terms and expressions used herein are selected for the purpose of describing the illustrative examples for the convenience of the reader, rather than for the purpose of limitation. In addition, it will be understood that one or more of the aspects, expressions of aspects, and / or examples described below may be combined with any one or more of the other aspects, expressions of aspects, and / or examples described below.

[0114] Figures 2 to 7 An apparatus 2000 is depicted that is configured to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell 10 about its central axis CA relative to the head penetration adapter 6 in a nuclear reactor. Figure 2 The device 2000 is shown mounted on a portion of a thermowell 10 and a head feedthrough adapter 6. The arrangement includes: a first structure or first ring 2010, which is coupled (e.g., via a weld 2012) to the thermowell 10. In many embodiments of the present disclosure, the various welds are described as file welds. However, this should not be construed as limiting. Other suitable welds are contemplated for use with embodiments of the present disclosure. The first ring includes a plurality of rod members 2014 extending therefrom. More specifically, when the first ring 2010 is coupled to the thermowell 10, each rod member 2014 extends from the first ring 2010 along a rod axis RA that is parallel to the central axis CA. In the illustrated embodiment, the rod members 2014 are symmetrical relative to the central axis CA, however, other embodiments are contemplated in which the rod members 2014 are asymmetrical. In certain embodiments, one or more rod members 2014 extend along respective rod axes that are not parallel to the central axis CA. In at least one embodiment, the first ring 2010 is formed of a stainless steel material.

[0115] Main references Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the device 2000 further includes a second structure or second ring 2020 coupled to the head penetration adapter 6. The second ring 2020 includes an inner diameter, the inner diameter including a threaded portion 2022, the threaded portion engaging with a mating threaded portion on the outer diameter of the head penetration adapter 6. Head penetration adapters for certain types of reactors include a threaded portion on the outer diameter of the bottom end thereof. For example, for head penetration adapters without such a threaded portion, the head penetration adapter can be machined in any suitable manner to form a threaded portion to receive the threaded portion 2022 of the second ring 2020. The second ring 2020 includes a plurality of through holes 2024 formed therein, each through hole 2024 defining a through hole axis THA. In the illustrated embodiment, the through holes 2024 are uniformly radially spaced at intervals of approximately ninety degrees around the central axis CA, however, other embodiments are contemplated in which the through holes 2024 are not uniformly radially spaced. In at least one embodiment, the second ring 2020 is formed of an alloy. Each rod member 2014 of the first ring 2010 is configured to engage with a corresponding through hole 2024 of the second ring 2020 to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell 10 about its central axis CA relative to the head penetration adapter 6 while allowing axial movement of the thermowell 10 relative to the head penetration adapter 6. For example, axial movement of the thermowell 10 relative to the head penetration adapter may be caused by thermal expansion / contraction of the thermowell 10 and / or may be necessary to allow reactor coolant to flow therethrough. Figure 4 and Figure 5 A view of the second ring 2020 coupled to the lower portion of the head penetration adapter 6 is further shown. Figure 5 As shown, the second ring 2020 is further secured to the head penetration adapter by a plurality of welds 2026 in addition to the threaded connection discussed previously.

[0116] Main references Figure 6 , the first ring 2010 can be initially installed on a newly installed replacement thermowell 10. A gap is provided between the inner diameter of the first ring 2010 and the outer diameter of the thermowell 10 to allow the first ring 2010 to slide along the thermowell 10 to a desired position and / or rotate around the thermowell 10 to a desired position. As described above, the second ring 2020 is coupled to the bottom of the head feedthrough adapter 6. The first ring 2010 is then slid into contact with the second ring 2020 ( Figure 7 ) are joined and then appropriately coupled to the thermowell 10 at the desired location (e.g., via welding or any suitable attachment method).

[0117] Figure 8 and Fig. 9 A second ring 2020' is depicted for use with the first ring 2010 in place of the second ring 2020. The second ring 2020' includes an inner stepped portion 2022' for receiving the lower end of the head penetration adapter 6, and a through hole 2024' for interfacing with the rod member 2014 of the first ring 2010. In the illustrated embodiment, the second ring 2020' is attached to the head penetration adapter 6 via a weld 2028'. However, any suitable attachment method may be utilized to attach the second ring 2020' to the bottom of the head penetration adapter 6.

[0118] Fig.10 and Fig.11 Another second ring 2020" is depicted for use with the first ring 2010 in place of the second ring 2020. The second ring 2020" includes a first arcuate portion 2022" and a second arcuate portion 2024", which are configured to fit together around a portion (e.g., the bottom end of the head through-piece adapter 6) to form a circular ring. Each of the first portion 2022" and the second portion 2024" includes: a stepped portion 2026", which is used to receive the bottom end of the head through-piece adapter 6 when the first portion 2022" and the second portion 2024" are fitted together. In addition, each of the first portion 2022" and the second portion 2024" includes a plurality of through holes 2025". The through holes 2025" are similar to the through holes 2024 (described previously). Figure 3). The first part 2022" includes inner interlocking portions 2028" at both ends, and the second part 2024" includes outer interlocking portions 2030" at both ends. The inner interlocking portion 2028" is configured to receive the outer interlocking portion 2030" to form a second ring 2020". Once fitted together around the bottom end of the through-piece adapter 6, the second ring 2020" can be welded in the inner interlocking area 2028" and the outer interlocking area 2030" to prevent the second ring 2020" from separating during use. In other embodiments, the first part 2022" and the second part 2022" are each modified to include: an inner interlocking portion on one end thereof and an outer interlocking portion on the other end.

[0119] In at least one embodiment, the second ring 2020" can be reassembled onto an already installed thermowell 10. Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown, the first portion 2022" and the second portion 2024" are positioned around the head penetration adapter 6 and fit together to form a second ring 2020". Once the second ring 2020" is in the desired position, the second ring 2020" can be fixed to the head penetration adapter 6 via a weld 2032", as shown in FIG. Fig.13 In at least one embodiment, the second ring 2020" can be, for example, Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The described approach is used in conjunction with the first ring 2010. However, as discussed in more detail below, other embodiments are contemplated for use with the second ring 2020".

[0120] Fig.14 and Fig.15 A first ring 2010" is depicted, the first ring 2010" being configured to be attached to the thermowell 10 and to mate with a second ring 2020" which is attached to the head feedthrough adapter 6 as described above. The first ring 2010" includes a first portion 2012" and a second portion 2014". The first portion 2012" includes: a first upright rod member 2013", which is configured to be received within a through hole 2025" in the second ring 2020". The second portion 2014" includes: a second upright rod member 2015", which is configured to be received within another through hole 2025" in the second ring 2020". Once the first portion 2012" and the second portion 2014" are in the desired positions, a weld 2016" is applied to secure the first portion 2012" and the second portion 2014" to the thermowell 10. As shown in FIG. Fig.14As shown, each of the first portion 2012" and the second portion 2014" includes less than half of the entire circumference. The first portion 2012" and the second portion 2014" are sized in this manner to allow for variations in mounting positions and / or welding positions.

[0121] In addition to the above, Fig.15 A cut location 17 is shown on the thermowell 10 where it may be cut to allow the devices discussed herein to be mounted to the head feedthrough adapter 6 and / or the remainder of the thermowell 10. Once assembled, the thermowell 10 is welded back together.

[0122] Fig.16 and Fig.17 Depicted is a device 3000 configured to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of a thermowell 10 about its axis relative to a head penetration adapter 6. The device 3000 includes a first ring 3100 configured to be attached to the thermowell 10 and a second ring 3200 configured to be attached to the head penetration adapter 6. The first ring 3100 and the second ring 3200 are configured to be operably engaged to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell 10 relative to the head penetration adapter 6, as discussed in more detail below.

[0123] The first ring 3100 includes a body 3110 and two upright rod members 3112 extending from the ring body 3110. The ring body 3110 includes an opening 3114 that is sized so that the first ring 3100 can be slid onto the thermowell 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the upright rod members 3112 include a non-circular elliptical cross-section. However, other embodiments are contemplated in which the upright rod members 3112 include cylindrical shapes, such as Figure 2 2014 is shown in the figure. In any case, the second ring 3200 includes a ring body 3210 that includes two lug members 3212 extending laterally therefrom. An opening 3214 and a cutout area 3216 are defined in the ring body 3210. The opening 3214 is sized so that the second ring 3200 can slide along the thermowell 10 and abut against the bottom end of the head penetration adapter 6. More specifically, the cutout area 3216 provided in the body 3210 of the second ring 3200 receives the bottom end of the head penetration adapter 6. The lug member 3212 includes an opening 3218 located therein, as shown in FIG. Fig.17 As shown, the opening is sized and shaped to receive the upright rod member 3112 when the first ring 3100 and the second ring 3200 are assembled together.

[0124] In use, the second ring 3200 may have been attached to a replacement thermowell 10, or may be reassembled to an existing thermowell, as described herein. The second ring 3200 is slid along the thermowell 10 until the bottom end of the head penetration adapter 6 is received in the cutout area 3216 of the second ring 3200. As described above, the already installed thermowell 10 may be cut to receive the second ring 3200. The second ring 3200 is then welded to the head penetration adapter 6 via the weld 3213. The first ring 3100 is then mounted on the thermowell 10 and slid along the thermowell 10 until the upright rod members 3112 are received within their respective openings 3218 in the second ring 3200. Once the first ring 3100 is in the desired position, the first ring 3100 is welded to the thermowell 10. The first ring 3100 engages with the second ring 3200 to resist, reduce and / or prevent the thermowell 10 from rotating about its axis. However, due to the relationship between the upstanding stem member 3112 and the opening 3218 , the thermowell 10 is permitted to translate axially.

[0125] Figures 18 to 21 A device 4000 is depicted that is configured to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell 10 about its axis relative to the head penetration adapter 6. The device 4000 includes: a first ring 4100 that is configured to be attached to the thermowell 10; and a second ring 3200 that (as described above with respect to Fig.16 and Fig.17 The first ring 4100 and the second ring 3200 are configured to be operably engaged to resist, reduce and / or prevent the thermowell 10 from rotating relative to the head penetration adapter 6, as discussed in more detail below.

[0126] The first ring 4100 includes a body 4110 and two upright rod members 4112 extending from the ring body 4110. The ring body 4110 includes an opening 4114 that is sized so that the first ring 4100 can slide along the thermowell 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the upright rod members 4112 include a non-circular elliptical cross-section. However, other embodiments are contemplated in which the upright members 4112 include cylindrical shapes, such as Figure 2 The rod member 2014 is shown in FIG.

[0127] In addition to the above, the ring body 4110 includes a mechanical clamp 4120 extending therefrom. The mechanical clamp 4120 includes: an inner housing 4130, which extends from the body 4110 of the first ring 4100; and an outer housing 4140, which can be positioned around the inner housing 4130. The outer housing 4140 includes an internal thread 4148, and the inner housing 4130 includes an external thread 4138. Therefore, when assembled together, the threads 4148 of the outer housing 4140 engage with the threads 4138 of the inner housing 4130, so that when the outer housing 4140 rotates, the outer housing 4140 will translate relative to the inner housing 4130.

[0128] In addition to the above, the inner housing 4130 includes a collet 4132, which includes a plurality of fingers 4134. The fingers 4134 of the collet 4132 are configured to bend inward when an external force is applied to the collet 4132. In the illustrated example, the fingers 4134 of the collet 4132 include a tapered outer surface 4136 that aligns with a tapered inner surface 4142 of the outer housing 4140 when the outer housing 4140 is threadedly engaged with the inner housing 4130. For example, when the outer housing 4140 is threadedly engaged with the inner housing 4130 in the counterclockwise direction D CCW When the outer shell 4140 is rotated in the clockwise direction, for example, the outer shell 4140 will translate in the direction D1, and the tapered inner surface 4142 of the outer shell 4140 will engage the tapered outer surface 4136 of the inner shell 4130 and deflect the pawl 4134 inwardly. Other embodiments are contemplated in which the outer shell 4140 can be rotated in a clockwise direction to translate the outer shell 4140 in the direction D1.

[0129] In use, the second ring 3200 is slid along the thermowell 10 until the bottom end of the head feedthrough adapter 6 is received in the cutout area 3216 of the second ring 3200. As described above, the already installed thermowell 10 can be cut to receive the second ring 3200. The second ring 3200 is then welded to the head feedthrough adapter 6. The first ring 4100 is then installed onto the thermowell 10 and slid along the thermowell 10 until the upright rod members 4112 are received within their respective openings 3218 in the second ring 3200. Once the first ring 4100 is in the desired position, the mechanical clamp 4120 can be actuated to secure the first ring 4100 to the thermowell 10. More specifically, as described above, the outer housing 4140 of the mechanical clamp 4120 can be rotated to clamp the inner housing 4130 to the thermowell 10. An opening 4144 in the outer housing 4140 of the mechanical clamp 4120 can be used to facilitate rotation of the outer housing 4140 to secure the first ring 4100 to the thermowell 10. In at least one embodiment, the opening 4144 can be engaged by a wrench or any suitable tool to assist a user in rotating the outer housing 4140 relative to the inner housing 4130.

[0130] In addition to the above, the outer housing 4140 includes a crimp ring portion 4146 that is configured to deform into a corresponding groove 4131 defined in the outer diameter of the inner housing 4130 of the first ring 4100 after the inner housing 4130 is clamped to the thermowell 10. The groove 4131 is located radially around the outer diameter of the inner housing 4130. The crimp ring portion 4146 is configured to bend and / or deflect into the groove 4131 to prevent the outer housing 4140 from disengaging from the inner housing 4130 (i.e., to prevent the outer housing 4140 from loosening from the inner housing 4130 during use).

[0131] In addition to the above, when the first ring 4100 is attached to the thermowell 10, the second ring 3200 is attached to the head feedthrough adapter 6, and the first ring 4100 and the second ring 3200 are operably engaged, the device 4000 resists, reduces and / or prevents the thermowell 10 from rotating about its axis. However, due to the relationship between the upright rod member 4112 and the opening 4218, the thermowell 10 is allowed to translate axially.

[0132] Figure 22 to Figure 25 A split clamp assembly 5000 is depicted that is configured to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell 10 about its axis relative to the modified head penetration adapter 6'. The split clamp assembly 5000 includes: a first clamping portion 5100 and a second clamping portion 5200, which are configured to be coupled together via a fastener 5300. The first clamping portion 5100 includes an arcuate body 5110, which includes two lug portions 5112 extending therefrom. Each lug portion 5112 includes a threaded hole located therein. A pair of upright members 5114 extend from the lug portions 5112. In the illustrated embodiment, the upright members 5114 include a rectangular cross-section with rounded edges. However, other embodiments are envisioned in which the upright members 5114 include cylindrical or any other suitable shape for engaging with the modified head penetration adapter. In any case, the second clamping portion 5200 includes an arcuate body 5210 including two lug portions 5212 extending therefrom. When the first clamping portion 5100 and the second clamping portion 5200 are coupled together, the arcuate body 5110 of the first clamping portion 5100 and the arcuate body 5210 of the second clamping portion 5200 form an opening 5400 therebetween. The opening 5400 is sized and shaped to receive the thermowell 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 5400 is substantially circular. However, in other embodiments, the opening 5400 may include a different shape suitable for receiving the thermowell 10, such as an oval shape.

[0133] In addition to the above, the second clamping portion 5200 includes a protrusion 5214 extending from each lug portion 5212. Each protrusion 5214 includes an opening 5216 located therein, the opening terminating in a step 5217. A threaded hole 5219 extends through the remainder of the protrusion 5214 and the lug portion 5212 on each side of the second clamping portion 5200. The threaded hole 5219 is positioned so that: when the first clamping portion 5100 and the second clamping portion 5200 are coupled together, the threaded hole 5219 is aligned with the threaded hole defined in the first clamping portion 5100. Each opening 5216 includes a plurality of cutouts or grooves 5218 in its sidewall. In at least one embodiment, each opening 5216 includes four grooves 5218, which are radially evenly spaced within the inner diameter of the opening 5216. However, other embodiments are contemplated having more or less than four grooves 5218 , which may be evenly or unevenly radially spaced within the inner diameter of the opening 5216 .

[0134] In use, the first clamping portion 5100 is positioned on one side of the thermowell 10 and the second clamping portion 5200 is positioned on the other side of the thermowell 10. Once the first clamping portion 5100 and the second clamping portion 5200 are in the desired position relative to the modified head penetration adapter 6', the split clamp assembly 5000 can be clamped around the thermowell 10 by installing the fastener 5300. The split clamp assembly 5000 can be positioned relative to the modified head penetration adapter 6' so that the upright member 5114 of the split clamp assembly 5000 is received within the axial slot 7' defined in the modified head penetration adapter 6'. In at least one embodiment, the axial slot 7' is defined in the bottom end of the head penetration adapter 6 to form, for example, the modified head penetration adapter 6'.

[0135] In addition to the above, the fastener 5300 is configured to threadably engage the threaded hole 5219 in the second clamping portion 5200 and extend into the threaded hole in the first clamping portion 5100. When the fastener is tightened, the size of the opening 5400 will decrease and squeeze the split clamp assembly 5000 around the thermowell 10'. When the fastener 5300 is installed, the head of each fastener 5310 can eventually be lowered onto the step 5217 within each opening 5216. Each fastener 5300 includes a crimping portion 5312 that deforms once the fastener 5300 is installed in the split clamp assembly 5000. More specifically, the crimping portion 5312 can be deflected into the groove 5218 within the side wall of the opening 5216 to retain the fastener 5300 within the split clamp assembly 5000. By crimping the crimping portion 5312, the fastener is prevented from rotating and from becoming a loose component if the fastener 5300 fails in use. In at least one embodiment, after the split clamp assembly 5000 is clamped to the thermowell 10, the split clamp assembly 5000 can be welded to the thermowell 10.

[0136] Further to the above, the relationship between the upright member 5114 and the axial slot 7' in the head feedthrough adapter 6' resists, reduces and / or prevents rotation of the thermowell 10 while allowing axial movement of the thermowell 10 relative to the head feedthrough adapter 6'.

[0137] Fig.26 and Fig. 27 Depicted is a device 6000 configured to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell 10 about its axis relative to the head penetration adapter 6. The device 6000 includes: a split clamp assembly 5000' configured to be attached to the thermowell 10; and a second ring 3200 (see Fig.16 and 18 ), which is configured to be attached to the head penetration adapter 6. The split clamp assembly 5000' and the second ring 3200 are configured to be operably engaged to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell 10 relative to the head penetration adapter 6, as discussed in more detail below.

[0138] Split clamp assembly 5000' is similar to split clamp assembly 5000, except that split clamp assembly 5000' includes an upright member 5114' that includes a non-circular elliptical cross-section. However, other embodiments are contemplated in which upright member 5114' includes a cylindrical shape, such as Figure 2 The rod member 2014 is shown in FIG.

[0139] In use, the second ring 3200 is attached (e.g., welded) to the head penetration adapter 6, as previously described with respect to Fig.17 and Fig.19 The split clamp assembly 5000' is then positioned about the thermowell 10 as discussed above with respect to the split clamp assembly 5000. The split clamp assembly 5000' is then slid toward the head feedthrough adapter 6 until the upright rod member 5114' is received in the opening 3218 of the second ring 3200. Once the desired positioning is reached, the split clamp assembly 5000' can be clamped to the thermowell 10 by tightening the fasteners 5300 as discussed previously. In at least one embodiment, after the split clamp assembly 5000' is clamped to the thermowell 10, the split clamp assembly 5000' can be welded to the thermowell 10.

[0140] Figure 28 to Figure 31 An apparatus 7000 is depicted that is configured to resist, reduce and / or prevent rotation of a modified thermowell 10' about its axis relative to a head penetration adapter 6. The apparatus 7000 includes a cylindrical body portion 7100 that includes a through hole 7112 therein. The through hole 7112 defines a central axis CA and is configured to receive the thermowell 10'. The body portion 7100 further includes a stepped portion 7110 that is configured to receive a bottom end of the head penetration adapter 6. Fig.31 As shown, the main body portion 7100 further includes a pair of through holes 7114, which are spaced apart on either side of the central axis CA. The through holes 7114 define an axis perpendicular to the central axis CA. Each through hole 7114 is widened to a counterbore 7116 defined in the outer diameter of the main body portion 7100. The device 7000 further includes a slidable member 7200, which includes a head 7220. The slidable member 7200 is configured to slide within the through hole 7114, and the head 7220 of the slidable member 7200 is configured to be received in the counterbore 7116 of the main body portion 7100 of the device 7000.

[0141] In addition to the above, axial grooves 11' are defined on either side of an axial axis SA defined by the modified thermowell 10'. In at least one embodiment, the axial grooves 11' are machined into an existing thermowell 10 to form the modified thermowell 10'. The axial grooves 11' are positioned on either side of the axial axis SA of the modified thermowell 10'. When the device 7000 is assembled to the head feedthrough adapter 6 and the modified thermowell 10', the axial axis SA of the modified thermowell 10' coincides with the central axis of the device 7000, as discussed in more detail below.

[0142] In use, the device 7000 is slid onto the modified thermowell 10' and translated toward the head penetration adapter 6 until the stepped portion 7110 of the device 7000 engages the bottom end of the head penetration adapter 6. The device 7000 is then rotated until the slidable member 7200 is aligned with the axial groove 11' in the modified thermowell 10'. The body portion 7100 of the device 7000 is then welded to the head penetration adapter 6, as shown in FIG. Fig.31 As shown. The slidable member 7200 can then be slid into the axial slot 11' of the modified thermowell 10', and then the head 7220 of the slidable member 7200 is welded to the main body 7100 of the device 7000. The size and shape of the slidable member 7200 and the axial slot 11' are determined so that: when the slidable member 7200 is received in the axial slot 11', the rotational movement of the modified thermowell 10' about its axial axis SA is restricted, while allowing a certain amount of axial translation of the modified thermowell 10' along the axial axis SA relative to the head feedthrough adapter 6.

[0143] In addition to the above, in at least one alternative embodiment, the slidable member 7200 includes external threads that mate with internal threads defined within the through hole 7114 of the device 7000. In this arrangement, the slidable member 7200 is threadedly engaged with the body portion 7100 of the device and can be rotated to translate the slidable member 7200 into the axial groove 11' of the modified thermowell 10'. In addition, after the slidable member 7200 is installed, a weld can be applied to the head 7220 of the slidable member 7200.

[0144] From the foregoing example embodiments, it can thus be appreciated that some of the novel features of the disclosed concept are that designs for replacement compressible thermowells as well as existing thermowells can be implemented. The components utilized in this arrangement are designed to interface between fixed and movable components composed of different materials. Embodiments of the concept must function submerged in a high temperature, high turbulence environment. Much of the novelty of the device is that axial movement of the sleeve is allowed during head installation while limiting movement caused by turbulent cross flow. The spline / keyway design allows axial movement while limiting the other 5 degrees of freedom (translation and all rotations perpendicular to the thermowell axis). It should be understood that the arrangement provided herein can generally be reversed (i.e., coupled to an alternative to the head feedthrough adapter / thermowell) without changing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0145] As an alternative to the previously discussed embodiments which utilize interaction elements coupled to the thermowell and feedthrough adapters to inhibit rotation of the thermowell and thereby minimize / eliminate wear on one or both of the thermowell and / or associated head feedthrough adapter, the disclosed concepts also provide embodiments which utilize interaction between a guide funnel of a thermowell and one or more elements coupled to a corresponding conduit below. Fig.32 , wherein the catheter 100' has been modified in accordance with at least one embodiment of the disclosed concept. More particularly, the modified catheter 100' has been modified to include a plurality of (two are shown) threaded blind holes 102 formed at its top. In at least one embodiment, the threaded blind holes 102 are formed by first forming the blind holes via EDM and then tapping them using a remotely operated conventional tap. However, it should be understood that the threaded blind holes 102 can be formed via any other suitable method without changing the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be understood that the number of threaded blind holes 102 can be changed without changing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0146] Reference now Fig.33 and Fig.34 , depicting a wear reduction device 110. The wear reduction device 110 includes a base 112 formed as a ring configured to be coupled to a conduit 100' and a plurality of protruding elements or protruding members 114, each of which extends upwardly from the base 112 and is sized and configured to engage a guide funnel of a thermowell, as will be discussed in further detail below. The wear reduction device 110 shown in the figures includes four protruding members 114, however, it should be understood that the number of protruding members 114 may be varied without changing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0147] To facilitate coupling the base 112 to the modified catheter 100', the base 112 includes a plurality of holes 116 defined therein. Each hole 116 is positioned to align with a corresponding one of the plurality of threaded blind holes 102 of the modified catheter 100' and receive a bolt 118 therefrom, such as Fig.36A and Fig.36B As shown, the bolts are threadedly engaged with the corresponding threaded blind holes 102. In order to prevent each bolt 118 from loosening, the base 112 further includes a plurality of collars 120, each collar 120 is arranged around a corresponding hole 116 and extends upward from the base 112, such as Fig.37As shown. Each collar 120 can be deformed inwardly toward the head of each bolt 118 via a crimping tool or other suitable mechanism in a manner such that the collar 120 can be deformed against the head of the bolt 118, thereby preventing rotation of the bolt 118. In addition, in the unlikely event that the head of the bolt 118 separates from the remainder of the bolt 118, the collar 120 prevents loose parts from being introduced into the reactor. In order to properly align the base 112 with the guide tube 100', the base 112 may include a circumferential lip 122 ( Fig.33 ), which is sized and configured to matingly engage with a portion of the modified catheter 100' in a manner that aligns the base 110 with the modified catheter 100'.

[0148] Reference again Fig.33 and Fig.34 as well as Fig.35 , Fig.36A and Fig.36B Each protruding member 114 includes a portion 130 configured to engage with a corresponding portion of the guide funnel 12 ′ of the thermowell 10 . Fig.33 , Fig.34 , Fig.36A and Fig.36B In the example of , portion 130 includes an outwardly facing surface 132 that is disposed at an angle corresponding to the angle of the inner conical surface of guide funnel 12'. Portion 130 further includes a key 134 that extends further outward from surface 132. In the illustrated embodiment, key 134 is in the form of a vertically oriented ridge-like element that is sized and configured to matingly engage with a corresponding groove 136 defined in guide funnel 12' (e.g., formed via EDM machining or other suitable method). The engagement between each key 134 and the corresponding groove 136 resists, reduces and / or prevents rotation of the thermowell 10, thereby reducing wear caused by the rotation. Fig.36A An example of a potential initial "raised" orientation of the guide funnel 12' on the wear mitigation device 110 is shown. The thermowell 10 and its guide funnel 12' will rotate due to the coolant flow until it is oriented so that the groove 136 is aligned with the key 134, thereby causing the guide funnel 12' and the thermowell 10 to fall into a "fixed" position, as shown in FIG. Fig.36B shown.

[0149] Fig.38 and Fig.39 A wear mitigation device 210 is depicted. The wear mitigation device 210 is similar to the previously discussed device 110. The wear mitigation device 210 includes a base 212 formed as a ring configured to be coupled to the conduit 100' and a plurality of protruding members 214, each extending upwardly from the base 212 and sized and configured to engage the guide funnel 12 of the thermowell 10, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0150] The portion 230 of each protruding member 214 of the device 210 is configured to engage a corresponding portion of the guide funnel 12 of the thermowell 10 and includes an outwardly facing surface 232 that is disposed at an angle corresponding to the angle of the inner conical surface of the guide funnel 12. Because the device 210 does not include any keys, such as the keys 134 of the device 110, the device 210 is configured to provide additional support surfaces for the thermowell 10 and its guide funnel 12, which helps reduce wear thereof and reduces the rate at which the thermowell 10 falls, while resisting, reducing and / or preventing rotation of the thermowell 10 and its guide funnel 12 (e.g., via increased friction due to increased surface contact area).

[0151] Fig.40 and Fig.41 A wear mitigation device 310 is depicted. The wear mitigation device 310 is similar to the wear mitigation devices 110 and 210. The wear mitigation device 310 includes a base 312 formed as a ring configured to be coupled to the conduit 100' and a plurality of protruding members 314 extending upwardly from the base 312. A portion 330 of each protruding member 314 of the device 310 is configured to engage with a corresponding portion of the guide funnel 12 of the thermowell 10. Each portion 330 includes an inward notch 332 sized and configured to engage with a portion of the outer periphery of the guide funnel 12. Because the device 310 does not include any keys, such as the keys 134 similar to the device 110, the device 310 (similar to the device 210) is configured to provide additional support surfaces for the thermowell 10 and its guide funnel 12, which helps reduce wear thereof and reduce the rate at which the thermowell 10 falls, while resisting, reducing and / or preventing rotation of the thermowell 10 and its guide funnel 12 (e.g., via increased friction due to increased surface contact area).

[0152] As an alternative to the previous devices 110, 210, and 310, which utilized a base 112, 212, and 312 bolted to a modified catheter 100', some example embodiments that instead clamp to an unmodified catheter 100 will be discussed in more detail below.

[0153] Figure 42 to Figure 45 A wear reduction device 410 is depicted. The wear reduction device 410 is similar to the wear reduction devices 110, 210, and 310. For example, the wear reduction device includes a base 412 that is somewhat similar to the bases of the devices 110, 210, and 310 discussed previously, except that the base 412 is not configured to be bolted to the catheter 100, but is configured to be clamped to the catheter 100, as discussed in more detail below.

[0154] The wear reduction device 410 includes a plurality of protruding members 414 extending upwardly from a base 412, which are similar to the plurality of protruding members 114 of the wear reduction device 110 discussed above (see Fig.33 and Fig.34 ). The base 412 includes a base 422 that is configured to generally surround the top of the catheter 100. The base 422 includes a first arcuate arm member 450 and a second arcuate arm member 452, wherein the first arcuate arm member surrounds a portion of the catheter 100 and extends circumferentially from a portion 422A of the base 422 in a first direction to a distal end 450A, and the second arcuate arm member surrounds another portion of the catheter 100 and extends circumferentially from the portion 422A of the base 422 in a second direction (opposite to the first direction) to a distal end 452A disposed adjacent to but separated from the distal end 450A of the first arm member 450. Each of the arm members 450 and 452 is resiliently deformable so that the distal ends 450A and 452A thereof can be compressed together in a manner that clamps the base 412 (and therefore the wear reduction device 410) to the catheter 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal end 450A includes a hole 454 ( Fig.43 ), the hole being configured to allow a portion of the bolt 118 to pass therethrough. The distal end 450A further includes a crimpable collar 420 positioned about the hole 454, the crimpable collar being configured to function in a manner similar to the collar 120 discussed above. The distal end 452A includes a threaded hole 456 ( Fig.43 ), the threaded hole is configured to be threadedly engaged by the bolt 118. It should be understood that other suitable arrangements for tightening (or loosening) the arm members 450 and 452 may be employed without changing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0155] Fig.46 A wear reduction device 510 is depicted that is similar to the wear reduction device 410. For example, the wear reduction device 510 includes a base 512 that is similar to the base of the device 410, except that the base 512 includes two separate clamping locations on opposite sides of the base 512 that are configured to clamp the wear reduction device 510 to the catheter 100. More specifically, the base 512 includes a first set of first and second arcuate arm members 550, 552 and a second set of first and second arcuate arm members 550, 552, each set functioning similarly to the arrangement of the first and second arcuate arm members 450, 452 of the device 410, as discussed in more detail below.

[0156] The wear reduction device 510 includes a plurality of protruding members 514 extending upwardly from a base 512, which are similar to the plurality of protruding members 114 of the wear reduction device 110 discussed above (see Fig.33 and Fig.34). The base 512 includes a bottom 522 configured to generally surround the top of the catheter 100. The bottom 522 includes a pair of first arched arm members 550 extending circumferentially around a first portion of the catheter 100 from a portion 522A of the bottom 522. Each arched arm member 550 terminates at a distal end 550A. The bottom 522 further includes a pair of second arched arm members 552 extending circumferentially around a second portion (opposite the first portion) of the catheter 100 from a portion 522B of the bottom 522. Each second arched arm member 552 terminates at a distal end 552A that is adjacent to but separate from the corresponding distal end 550A of each first arm member 550. Each of the arm members 550 and 552 is resiliently deformable such that their respective distal ends 550A and 552A may be compressed together in a manner that clamps the base 512 (and thus the wear reduction device 510 ) to the catheter 100 .

[0157] In addition to the above, the distal end 550A includes a hole similar to the hole 454 ( Fig.43 ) holes configured to allow a portion of the bolt 118 to pass therethrough. The distal end 550A further includes a crimpable collar 520 positioned about each hole, the crimpable collar being configured to function in a manner similar to the collar 120 discussed above. In addition, the distal end 552A includes a threaded hole similar to the threaded hole 456 ( Fig.43 ) are provided with threaded holes configured to be threadedly engaged by bolt 118. It should be understood that other suitable arrangements for tightening (or loosening) arm members 550 and 552 may be employed without changing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0158] Fig.47 Another wear reduction device 610 is shown according to yet another embodiment, which is similar to the previously discussed devices 410 and 510, except that the base of the device 610 does not utilize any arm members to secure the device 610 to the catheter 100. More specifically, the base is formed into two separate parts 612A and 612B that are coupled together via a suitable adjustable fastening mechanism 660. In the example shown, the fastening mechanism 660 is similar to the previously discussed arrangement for tightening the distal ends 550A and 552A of the devices 410 and 510, however, it should be understood that other suitable fastening arrangements may be employed without changing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0159] Figures 48 to 54 Depicted are devices similar to those of 510 and 610 ( Fig.46 and Fig.47) of the wear reduction device 710. For example, the wear reduction device 710 includes distal ends 750A and 752A of a first bow arm member 750 and a second bow arm member 752 similar to devices 510 and 610. In addition, the wear reduction device 710 includes a protruding member 114, which includes an outwardly facing surface 132 and a key 134 as previously described. The wear reduction device 710 includes a vertical coupling arrangement 760 configured to couple the distal ends 750A and 752A of the first bow arm member 750 and the second bow arm member 752 together, as discussed in more detail below.

[0160] Each vertical coupling arrangement 760 includes a clamping wedge 762, a crimping cup 720, a fixing plate 763 and a bolt 118. Fig.52C , the clamping wedge 762 is formed as a generally U-shaped member, including a base 764 and a pair of vertically extending members 766 extending upwardly from the base 764. Each vertically extending member 766 includes an inward surface 768, which is arranged at an outward angle so that a generally V-shaped groove 770 is defined between the inward surfaces 768. In the example shown, each inward surface 768 is formed as a portion of a cylinder, however it should be understood that other arrangements may be employed without changing the scope of the present disclosure. The base 764 includes a vertically oriented threaded hole 772 defined therein, which is sized and configured to be threadedly engaged by the threaded portion of the bolt 118.

[0161] Main references Fig.52B Each of the distal ends 750A and 752A of the arcuate arm members 750 and 752 includes an engagement surface 778 correspondingly shaped and positioned to engage a corresponding one of the inwardly facing surfaces 768 of the clamping wedge 762. Each of the distal ends 750A and 752A also includes a groove 780 formed by a matingly shaped protrusion 782 ( Fig.52A ) are engaged. When assembled, each of the distal ends 750A and 752A is positioned within the V-groove 770 of the clamping wedge 762 such that the engagement surface 778 engages the inwardly facing surface 768. The hole in the fixing plate 763 is aligned with the protrusion 785 extending above the vertically extending member 766 of the clamping wedge 762. The fixing plate 763 is then coupled to the top of the vertically extending member 766 of the clamping wedge 762 (e.g., via a plug weld 784) so ​​as to capture the distal ends 750A and 752A within the V-groove 770. The bolt 118 is then inserted through the crimp cup 720, between the distal ends 750A and 752A, and into the threaded hole 772 in the base 764 of the clamping wedge 762.

[0162] In use, the base of the wear relief device 710 is placed around the catheter 100, and then, the bolt is tightened to clamp the wear relief device 710 to the catheter 100. More specifically, for example, when the bolt 118 is rotated in a clockwise direction, the clamping wedge 762 will move upward (i.e., toward the crimping cup 720 of the bolt 118). As the clamping wedge 762 moves upward, the inward surface 768 of the clamping wedge 762 will engage the engagement surface 778 of the distal ends 750A and 752A. Thus, the distal ends 750A and 752A are clamped together, and thus, when the bolt 118 is rotated in a clockwise direction, the wear relief device 710 is clamped around the catheter 100. Other embodiments are contemplated in which the bolt 118 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction to clamp the wear relief device to the catheter 100.

[0163] It should be understood that each vertical coupling arrangement 760 is designed to be in a fully loosened position (i.e., when the first and second bow arm members 750, 752 are in a fully untightened position prior to installation on the catheter 100) and in a fully tightened position (i.e., when the first and second bow arm members 750, 752 are in a close position against the catheter 100 (i.e., as shown in FIG. Fig.53 When fully assembled (as shown) Figures 48 to 51 ), and each vertical coupling arrangement 760 provides a vertically arranged bolt 118 that can be easily accessed during installation and / or removal of the wear reduction device 710 from the catheter 100.

[0164] and Fig.36A The arrangement is similar to Fig.55A An example of a potential initial "raised" orientation of the guide funnel 12' on the wear mitigation device 710 is shown. The thermowell 10 and its guide funnel 12' will rotate due to the coolant flow until it is oriented so that the groove 136 is aligned with the key 134, thereby causing the guide funnel 12' and the thermowell 10 to fall into a "fixed" position, as shown in FIG. Fig.55B However, Fig.36B Unlike the arrangement of the device 110, in which the outward surface 132 of the device 110 contacts the inward tapered surface 13' of the guide funnel 12', the protruding member 114 of the device 710 is sized and configured so that: when the guide funnel 12' is in the "fixed" position, its outward surface 132 is spaced apart from the inward tapered surface 13' of the guide funnel 12', as shown in FIG. Fig.55B and Fig.56As shown. It should be understood that this arrangement of device 710 is used to resist and / or reduce and / or prevent rotation of the thermowell 10 and its guide funnel 12', while not preventing axial and (to a certain extent) lateral movement of the guide funnel 12' and the thermowell 10. This arrangement ensures that the flange top of the thermowell 10 remains in contact with the head feedthrough adapter 6, thereby preventing thermal continuity with the water inside the CRDM latch assembly.

[0165] Figure 57 to Figure 61 A wear mitigation device 810 is depicted that includes a base portion 811 having a base 812 formed as a ring configured to be coupled to a modified catheter 100' (as discussed previously, e.g., see Fig.32 ). The wear mitigation arrangement 810 further includes a plurality of inner protruding members 814 and a plurality of outer protruding members 815. Each inner protruding member 814 generally extends upwardly and inwardly from a radially inward portion of the base 812 and is sized and configured to engage an inner conical surface of the guide funnel 12 of the thermowell 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the wear mitigation arrangement 810 includes four inner protruding members 814, however, it should be understood that the number of protruding members 814 may vary without changing the scope of the present disclosure. Each outer protruding member 815 generally extends upwardly from a radially outward portion of the base 812 and includes an outwardly and slightly upwardly directed ridge 840. The wear mitigation arrangement 810 includes two outer protruding members 815, however, it should be understood that the number of outer protruding members 815 may vary without changing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0166] To couple the base 812 to the modified catheter 100', the base 812 includes a plurality of holes 816 defined therein. Each hole 816 is positioned to align with a corresponding one of the plurality of threaded blind holes 102 of the modified catheter 100' (discussed above) and receive a bolt (e.g. Fig.36A and Fig.36B , by which the threaded bolt 118 is threadedly engaged with the corresponding threaded blind hole 102 (e.g., similar to Fig.36A and Fig.36B ). In the illustrated embodiment, each hole is surrounded by a counterbore 826 in the base 812 to seat the head of the bolt. However, other embodiments are contemplated in which each hole is surrounded by a crimpable collar, as previously discussed, to prevent the bolt from loosening during use. In order to properly align the base 812 with the catheter 100', the base 812 may include: a circumferential lip 822 extending downwardly therefrom, which is sized and configured to matingly engage with a portion of the modified catheter 100' in a manner that aligns the base 812 with the modified catheter 100'.

[0167] Continue to refer Figure 57 to Figure 61The wear reduction device 810 further includes a retainer 842 configured to be generally coupled to the guide funnel 12 directly above the tapered portion thereof and to engage the base portion 811 in a manner that inhibits the guide funnel 12 from rotating. More specifically, the retainer 842 includes an upper collar 844, a lower ring 846, and a plurality of connecting members 848 that span between the upper collar 844 and the lower ring 846 to connect the two upper collars 844 and the lower ring 846 together. The lower ring 846 includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced notch portions 850 defined in the lower ring 846. Each notch portion 850 is configured to engage with one of the correspondingly positioned outer protruding members 815 of the base portion 811 in a manner that inhibits the guide funnel 12 from rotating. Figure 57 to Figure 61 In the illustrated embodiment, only two notch portions 850 are engaged by the outer protruding members 815 of the base portion 811. However, other embodiments are contemplated in which more or less than two notch portions 850 are engaged by more or less than two outer protruding members 815 (i.e., more or less than two outer protruding members 815 may be provided).

[0168] In addition to the above, the retainer 842 is formed as two separate parts 842A and 842B, which are coupled together via bolts 818. In the illustrated embodiment, the bolts are positioned at the top and bottom of the retainer 842 and on either side of the retainer 842 (i.e., a total of four bolts 818 are provided). Other embodiments are envisioned, such as where there are more or less than four bolts. The retainer 842 further includes a crimpable collar 820 extending from the portion 842A of the retainer 842, which functions the same as those discussed previously. When the bolts 818 are assembled to the retainer 842, the collar 820 surrounds the head of each bolt 818. It should be understood that by dividing the retainer 842 into two parts 842A and 842B, the retainer 842 can be easily retrofitted to the guide funnel 12 on the installed thermowell 10. It should also be understood that the retainer 842 can be formed as a single integral member or two or more parts that can be coupled together without changing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0169] Fig.62 and Fig.63 A wear mitigation device 910 is depicted that includes a base portion 911 having a base 912 formed as a ring configured to be coupled to a modified catheter 100' (e.g., as discussed previously, see e.g., Fig.32 ). The wear reduction device 910 further includes: a plurality of inner protruding members, which are similar to Figure 57 to Figure 61The inner conical surface of the guide funnel is configured to be placed thereon. In addition, the device 910 includes a plurality of protruding members 915 that protrude upward from the base portion 911 toward the guide funnel 12. Each protruding member 915 includes a flat top surface 940. In the illustrated embodiment, the wear reduction device 910 includes two protruding members 915, however, it should be understood that the number of protruding members 915 can be changed without changing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0170] To couple the base 912 to the modified catheter 100', the base 912 includes a plurality of holes 916 defined therein. Each hole 916 is positioned to align with a corresponding one of the plurality of threaded blind holes 102 of the modified catheter 100' (discussed above) and receive a bolt (e.g. Fig.36A and Fig.36B 118 in the embodiment of the present invention) through which the bolt is threadedly engaged with the corresponding threaded blind hole 102 (e.g., similar to Fig.36A and Fig.36B 916 and 916). To prevent each bolt from loosening, the base 912 further includes a plurality of collars 920, each collar 920 being arranged around a corresponding one of the holes 916 and extending upwardly from the base 912. Each collar 920 can be deformed inwardly toward the head of each bolt via a crimping tool (not shown) or other suitable mechanism in a manner such that the collar 920 can be deformed against the head, thereby preventing the bolt engaged by the collar 920 from rotating. In addition, the collar 920 prevents loose parts from occurring when the head is separated from the rest of the bolt. To properly align the base 912 with the catheter 100', the base 912 can include a circumferential lip 922 extending downwardly therefrom, which is sized and configured to cooperatively engage with a portion of the modified catheter 100' in a manner that aligns the base 912 with the modified catheter 100'.

[0171] Continue to refer Fig.62 and Fig.63 , the wear reduction device 910 further includes a retainer 942 configured to be generally coupled to the guide funnel 12 directly above the tapered portion thereof and to engage with the base portion 911 in a manner that inhibits the guide funnel 12 from rotating. More specifically, the retainer 942 includes an upper collar 944, a lower ring 946, and a plurality of connecting members 948 that span between the upper collar 944 and the lower ring 946 and connect the upper collar 944 and the lower ring 946 together. The lower ring 946 includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced notches or recessed portions 950 that are arranged radially outward from the lower ring 946. Each recessed portion 950 is configured to engage with a correspondingly positioned protruding member 915 of the base portion 911 in a manner that inhibits the guide funnel 12 from rotating about the central axis of the guide funnel 12 while allowing the guide funnel 12 to move axially. Fig.62 and Fig.63 In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 , only two recessed portions 950 are engaged by the protruding members 915 of the base portion 911. However, other embodiments are contemplated in which more or less than two recessed portions 950 are engaged by the protruding members 915 (i.e., more or less than two protruding members 915 may be provided).

[0172] like Fig.62 and Fig.63 As shown, the retainer 942 is formed into two separate parts 942A and 942B that are coupled together via bolts 918. The retainer 942 further includes a crimpable collar 920 extending from the portion 942A of the retainer 942, which functions the same as those discussed previously. When the bolts 918 are assembled to the retainer 942, the collar 920 surrounds the head of each bolt 918. It should be understood that by dividing the retainer 942 into two parts 942A and 942B, the retainer 942 can be easily retrofitted to the guide funnel 12 on the installed thermowell 10. It should also be understood that the retainer 942 can be formed as a single unitary member or two or more parts that can be coupled together without changing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0173] Fig.64 A wear reduction device 1010 is depicted, which includes a substrate 1012 (similar to the Fig.34 The substrate 112 discussed above) and a plurality of protruding members 1014. Each protruding member 1014 extends upwardly from the substrate 1012 and is sized and configured to engage with the guide funnel 12" of the thermowell 10, such as Fig.65 In the illustrated embodiment, the wear reduction device 1010 includes four protruding members 1014, however, it should be understood that the number of protruding members 1014 may vary without changing the scope of the present disclosure.

[0174] In order to couple the base 1012 to the modified catheter 100', the base 1012 includes a plurality of holes 1016 defined therein. Each hole 1016 is positioned to align with a corresponding one of the plurality of threaded blind holes 102 of the modified catheter 100' and receive a bolt 118 therefrom, such as Fig.66 and Fig.67As shown, the bolts are threadedly engaged with the corresponding threaded blind holes 102. To prevent each bolt 118 from loosening, the base 1012 further includes a plurality of collars 1020, each collar 1020 being arranged around a corresponding one of the holes 1016 and extending upwardly from the base 1012. Each collar 1020 can be deformed inwardly toward the head of each bolt 118 via a crimping tool (not shown) or other suitable mechanism in a manner such that the collar 1020 can be deformed against the head, thereby preventing the bolt 118 engaged by the collar 1020 from rotating. In addition, the collar 1020 prevents loose parts from occurring when the head is separated from the rest of the bolt 118. To properly align the base 1012 with the catheter 100', the base 1012 can include: a circumferential lip 1022 protruding downwardly from the base 1012, which is sized and configured to cooperatively engage with a portion of the modified catheter 100' in a manner that aligns the base 1012 with the modified catheter 100'.

[0175] Each extension member 1014 includes a portion 1030 that is configured to engage a corresponding portion of the guide funnel 12" of the thermowell 10. Each portion 1030 includes an outwardly facing surface 1032 that is arranged at an angle corresponding to the angle of the inner tapered surface of the guide funnel 12". Two of the portions 1030 further include a generally triangular key 1034 that extends further outward from the outwardly facing surface 1032. The triangular key 1034 is sized and configured to matingly engage a corresponding triangular recess or notch 1036 defined in the guide funnel 12" (e.g., formed via EDM machining or other suitable method). The engagement between each triangular key 1034 and the corresponding notch 1036 resists, reduces and / or prevents rotation of the thermowell 10, thereby reducing wear caused by the rotation.

[0176] Various aspects of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the following examples.

[0177] Example 1 - An apparatus for resisting rotation of a thermowell about its central axis relative to a head penetration adapter in a nuclear reactor, wherein the apparatus comprises a first structure disposed on or in the thermowell and a second structure disposed on or in the head penetration adapter. The first structure and the second structure are configured to be operably engaged to resist rotation of the thermowell about the central axis relative to the head penetration adapter while allowing axial movement of the thermowell relative to the head penetration adapter.

[0178] Example 2 - The apparatus of Example 1, wherein the first structure includes a first ring configured to be coupled to a thermowell, wherein the first ring includes a plurality of rod members extending therefrom, wherein when the first structure is coupled to the thermowell, each rod member extends along a rod axis parallel to a central axis of the thermowell, wherein the second structure includes a second ring configured to be coupled to a head through-piece adapter, wherein the second ring includes a plurality of through-holes formed therein, wherein when the second ring is coupled to the head through-piece adapter, each through-hole defines a through-hole axis parallel to the central axis, and wherein each rod member of the first ring is configured to slidingly engage a corresponding through-hole of the second ring.

[0179] Example 3 - The device of Example 2, wherein the first ring is formed of a stainless steel material, and wherein the second ring is formed of an alloy.

[0180] Example 4 - The device of Example 2 or 3, wherein the second ring includes an internally threaded portion configured to engage an externally threaded portion of a mating head feedthrough adapter.

[0181] Example 5 - The device of Example 2, 3, or 4, wherein the second ring includes an inner stepped portion configured to receive a lower end of the head penetration adapter.

[0182] Example 6 - The device of Example 2, 3, 4, or 5, wherein the second ring includes a first segment and a second segment, and wherein the first segment is coupleable to the second segment to attach the second ring to the head penetration adapter.

[0183] Example 7 - The device of Example 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, wherein the plurality of rod members includes two rod members.

[0184] Example 8 - The device of Example 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7, wherein the first ring includes a first segment and a second segment, and wherein the first segment is coupleable to the second segment to attach the first ring to the thermowell.

[0185] Example 9 - The device of Example 8, wherein the first segment and the second segment each include an interlocking portion, and wherein the first segment and the second segment are capable of being coupled together via the interlocking portion.

[0186] Example 10 - The device of Example 2, wherein the first ring includes a first piece and a second piece separate from the first piece, wherein the first piece includes one of the plurality of rod members, and wherein the second piece includes another of the plurality of rod members.

[0187] Example 11 - The device of Example 2 or 10, wherein each rod member has a non-circular cross-section, and wherein each through-hole has a non-circular cross-section of a corresponding shape.

[0188] Example 12 - The device of Example 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or 11, wherein one of the first structure and the second structure includes a mechanical clamp configured to mechanically couple one of the first structure and the second structure to a thermal sleeve or a head penetration adapter.

[0189] Example 13 - The apparatus of Example 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12, wherein the first structure comprises a split clamp configured to couple to a thermowell, and wherein the split clamp comprises two sections coupled together via a threaded fastener.

[0190] Example 14 - The device of Example 13, wherein one of the two segments includes a groove formed therein for engagement by a crimping portion of a threaded fastener.

[0191] Example 15 - The device of Example 13 or 14, wherein one of the two segments includes a pair of rods extending therefrom, wherein the second structure includes axial slots formed in the head through-piece adapter, and wherein each rod is configured to engage with a corresponding axial slot in the head through-piece adapter.

[0192] Example 16 - The device of Example 1, wherein the second structure includes a main body portion configured to be coupled to a head through-piece adapter, wherein the main body portion includes a plurality of holes oriented orthogonally to the central axis, wherein each hole includes a slidable member positioned therein, wherein the first structure includes a plurality of slots defined in the thermowell, and wherein each slidable member is configured to engage with a corresponding slot in the thermowell.

[0193] Example 17 - A device for reducing thermal sleeve wear of a nuclear reactor, the device comprising: a base configured to be coupled to a guide tube of the nuclear reactor; and a plurality of protrusions extending upward from the base, each protrusion configured to engage with a corresponding portion of a guide funnel of the thermal sleeve.

[0194] Example 18 - The device of Example 17, wherein the base comprises a generally circular ring.

[0195] Example 19 - The device of Example 18, wherein the ring includes a plurality of holes defined therein.

[0196] Example 20 - The device of Example 17, 18, or 19, wherein the base further includes a circumferential lip extending downwardly therefrom, and wherein the circumferential lip is sized and configured to engage an exterior of the catheter.

[0197] Example 21 - The device of Example 17, 18, 19 or 20, wherein the base further includes a plurality of collars, each collar being arranged around a corresponding one of the holes and extending upward from the base.

[0198] Example 22 - The device of Example 17, 18, 19, 20 or 21, wherein each protrusion extending from the base includes an outwardly facing surface arranged at an angle corresponding to the angle of the inner conical surface of the guide funnel.

[0199] Example 23 - The device of Example 22, wherein each outwardly facing surface is sized and configured to engage a corresponding portion of the inner conical surface of the guide funnel.

[0200] Example 24 - The device of Example 22 or 23, wherein the outwardly facing surface of each protrusion of the base includes a key extending further outward therefrom, and wherein each key is sized and configured to cooperatively engage a corresponding slot defined in the guide funnel.

[0201] Example 25 - The device of Example 24, wherein each key comprises a vertically oriented ridge element.

[0202] Example 26 - The device of Example 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 or 25, wherein each protrusion of the base includes an inward notch sized and configured to engage a portion of an outer periphery of a guide funnel coupled to the thermowell.

[0203] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and substitutions to these details may be developed in accordance with the overall teachings of the present disclosure, and selected elements of one or more exemplary embodiments may be combined with one or more elements from other embodiments without changing the scope of the disclosed concept. Therefore, the specific embodiments disclosed are intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the present invention, which shall be given the full breadth of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof.

[0204] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in general, the terms used herein, and particularly in the appended claims (e.g., the bodies of the appended claims), are often used as "open" terms (e.g., the term "comprising" should be understood as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be understood as "having at least," the term "including" should be understood as "including but not limited to," etc.). Those skilled in the art should further understand that if a specific number of an introduced claim is intended to be recited, such intent will be expressly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such a recitation, such intent is absent. For example, to aid understanding, the following appended claims may contain the use of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed as implying that a claim recitation introduced by the indefinite article "a" or "an" limits any specific claim containing such introduced claim recitation to claims containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and / or "an" should typically be interpreted as meaning "at least one" or "one or more"); the same applies to the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations.

[0205] Furthermore, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, one skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the simple recitation "two recitations," without other modifications, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Additionally, in those cases where a convention similar to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, such a construction is typically intended to mean that a person skilled in the art should understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include, but is not limited to, a system having only A, a system having only B, a system having only C, a system having A and B, a system having A and C, a system having B and C, and / or a system having A, B, and C, etc.). In those cases where a convention similar to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, such a construction is typically intended to mean that a person skilled in the art should understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include, but is not limited to, a system having only A, a system having only B, a system having only C, a system having A and B, a system having A and C, a system having B and C, and / or a system having A, B, and C, etc.). Those skilled in the art should further understand that, whether in the specification, claims or drawings, transitional words or phrases indicating two or more alternative terms should be understood to include the possibility of one, any, or both terms, unless the context indicates otherwise. For example, the phrase "A or B" will typically be understood to include the possibility of "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[0206] With respect to the appended claims, those skilled in the art will recognize that the operations described therein are generally performed in any order. Similarly, although various operational flow charts are presented in order, it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than the order shown, or various operations may be performed simultaneously. Examples of these alternating arrangements may include overlapping, interleaving, interrupting, reordering, increasing, preparatory, supplementing, simultaneous, reversed, or other various orders, unless the context otherwise indicates. In addition, terms like "responsive to," "about," or other past tense adjectives are generally not intended to exclude variants, unless the context otherwise indicates.

[0207] It is worth noting that any reference to "one aspect," "an aspect," "an example," or "an example," etc., means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with the aspect is included in at least one aspect. Thus, the phrases "in one aspect," "in an aspect," "in an example," or "in an example" that appear in various places throughout the specification do not necessarily all refer to the same aspect. Furthermore, in one or more aspects, particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner.

[0208] Any patent application, patent, non-patent publication, or other public material mentioned in this specification and / or listed in any Application Data Sheet is incorporated herein by reference, provided that the incorporated material is not inconsistent with this document. Thus, to the extent necessary, the disclosure expressly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material or portion thereof (that is, any material or portion thereof incorporated herein by reference that conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other public materials set forth herein) will be incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing public materials.

[0209] The terms "include" (and any forms of including, such as "including" and "comprising"), "have" (and any forms of having, such as "having" and "having"), "include" (and any forms of including, such as "including" and "comprising"), and "contain" (and any forms of containing, such as "containing" and "containing") are open-ended linking verbs. Thus, a system that "includes," "has," "includes," or "contains" one or more elements possesses these one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only these one or more elements. Similarly, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that "includes," "has," "includes," or "contains" one or more features possesses these one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only these one or more features.

[0210] In summary, many benefits resulting from utilizing the concepts described herein have been described. The above description of one or more forms is presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications or variations may be made based on the above teachings. One or more forms are selected and described for purposes of illustrating principles and practical applications, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to utilize each form, while each modification is also applicable to a specific intended use. It is intended that the claims filed herewith define the entire scope.

Claims

1. A device for preventing a thermowell from rotating about its central axis relative to a head penetration adapter in a nuclear reactor, wherein: The device comprises: A first structure disposed on or within the thermowell; and a second structure disposed on or within the head penetration adapter, wherein the first structure and the second structure are configured to operably engage to resist rotation of the thermowell relative to the head penetration adapter about the central axis while allowing axial movement of the thermowell relative to the head penetration adapter, wherein the first structure comprises a first ring configured to be coupled to the thermowell, wherein the first ring comprises a plurality of rod members extending therefrom, each rod member extending along a rod axis parallel to a central axis of the thermowell when the first structure is coupled to the thermowell, The second structure includes a second ring, the second ring being configured to be coupled to the head penetration adapter, wherein the second ring includes a plurality of through holes formed therein, each through hole defining a through hole axis, and when the second ring is coupled to the head penetration adapter, the through hole axis is parallel to the central axis, and each rod member of the first ring is configured to slidingly engage with a corresponding through hole of the second ring.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The first ring is formed of a stainless steel material, and wherein the second ring is formed of an alloy.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The second ring includes an internally threaded portion configured to engage a mating externally threaded portion of the head feedthrough adapter.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The second ring includes an inner stepped portion configured to receive a lower end of the head feedthrough adapter.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The second ring includes a first segment and a second segment, and wherein the first segment is coupleable to the second segment to attach the second ring to the head penetration adapter.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of rod members includes two rod members.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein: The first ring includes a first segment and a second segment, and wherein the first segment is coupleable to the second segment to attach the first ring to the thermowell.

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein: The first segment and the second segment each include an interlocking portion, and wherein the first segment and the second segment are coupleable together via the interlocking portions.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein: The first ring includes a first piece and a second piece separate from the first piece, wherein the first piece includes one of the plurality of rod members, and wherein the second piece includes another of the plurality of rod members.

10. The device according to claim 1 or 9, wherein: Each rod member has a non-circular cross-section, and wherein each through-hole has a correspondingly shaped non-circular cross-section.

11. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: One of the first structure and the second structure includes a mechanical clamp configured to mechanically couple one of the first structure and the second structure to the thermowell or the head feedthrough adapter.

12. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The first structure includes a split clamp configured to be coupled to the thermowell, and wherein the split clamp includes two sections configured to be coupled together via a threaded fastener.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein: One of the two sections includes a recess formed therein for engagement by a crimping portion of one of the threaded fasteners.

14. The device of claim 12, wherein: One of the two segments includes a pair of rods extending therefrom, wherein the second structure includes an axial slot formed in the head through-piece adapter, and wherein each rod is configured to engage a corresponding axial slot in the head through-piece adapter.

15. An apparatus for preventing a thermowell in a nuclear reactor from rotating about its central axis relative to a head penetration adapter, wherein: The device comprises: A first structure disposed on or within the thermowell; and a second structure disposed on or within the head penetration adapter, wherein the first structure and the second structure are configured to operably engage to resist rotation of the thermowell relative to the head penetration adapter about the central axis while allowing axial movement of the thermowell relative to the head penetration adapter, wherein the second structure comprises a body portion configured to be coupled to the head feedthrough adapter, the body portion comprising a plurality of holes oriented orthogonally to the central axis, each hole comprising a slidable member positioned therein, the first structure comprising a plurality of slots defined in the thermowell, and each slidable member being configured to engage with a corresponding slot in the thermowell.

16. A device for reducing wear of a thermal sleeve of a nuclear reactor, the device comprising: a substrate configured to be coupled to a conduit of the nuclear reactor; as well as a plurality of protrusions extending upwardly from the base, wherein each protrusion is configured to directly engage a corresponding portion of the guide funnel of the thermowell, and Each protrusion extending from the base includes an outwardly facing surface that is arranged at an angle corresponding to the angle of the inner tapered surface of the guide funnel, or includes an inwardly facing notch that is sized and configured to engage a portion of an outer periphery of a guide funnel coupled to the thermowell.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein: The base comprises a substantially circular ring.

18. The device of claim 17, wherein: The ring includes a plurality of apertures defined therein.

19. The device according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein: The base further includes a circumferential lip extending downwardly therefrom, and wherein the circumferential lip is sized and configured to engage an exterior of the conduit.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein: The base further includes a plurality of collars, each collar being disposed about a corresponding one of the holes and extending upwardly from the base.

21. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein: Each outwardly facing surface is sized and configured to engage a corresponding portion of the inner tapered surface of the guide funnel.

22. The device according to claim 20 or 21, wherein: The outwardly facing surface of each projection of the base includes a key extending further outwardly therefrom, and wherein each key is sized and configured to matingly engage a corresponding slot defined in the guide funnel.

23. The device of claim 22, wherein: Each key includes a vertically oriented ridge element.

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