Flange Flush Tool Shield Tube Lifting Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for flushing dry tubes from flanges in boiling water nuclear reactors are inefficient in removing water and contaminants without support from a refueling bridge, posing challenges during maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A flange flush tool with a coaxial pneumatic actuator, vacuum breaker, and drain port, allowing for the longitudinal movement of a shield tube within an outer tube to lift the dry tube from the flange, facilitating the drainage of water and contaminants through a channel and isolation valve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If current methods for flushing dry tubes from flanges are used, then the process requires support from a refueling bridge, but this increases device complexity and reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into distinct functional segments: an outer tube for flange engagement, a movable shield tube for dry tube engagement and lifting, a pneumatic actuator for automation, and a drain system with isolation valve. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, eliminating the need for complex refueling bridge support while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is designed to be self-contained and self-operating. The pneumatic actuator automatically moves the shield tube to engage and lift the dry tube, while the drain system with isolation valve automatically drains water and contaminants. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external refueling bridge support and reduces operational complexity.
2Productivity
If a refueling bridge is used to support dry tube removal, then lifting force is sufficient, but this increases device complexity and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical lifting process using a refueling bridge is replaced with a pneumatic actuator system. The coaxial pneumatic actuator generates sufficient lifting force to remove the dry tube from the flange, eliminating the need for complex mechanical bridge structures and significantly improving productivity through faster, automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A coaxial pneumatic actuator is integrated into the tool to provide automated lifting force. The actuator uses pneumatic pressure to move the shield tube longitudinally, engaging and lifting the dry tube from the flange. This pneumatic system replaces complex mechanical support structures while maintaining sufficient lifting capability and improving operational efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the shield tube is made movable within the outer tube, then adaptability is improved, but this increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The shield tube is designed to move longitudinally within the outer tube, transitioning from a static to a dynamic configuration. This movement is controlled by the pneumatic actuator, allowing the shield tube to engage the dry tube at different positions and adapt to various operational requirements. The dynamic design enhances versatility while the integrated actuator keeps the overall system complexity manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A flange flush tool includes an outer tube having a first end and a second end, the first end configured to engage the flange, and a shield tube within the outer tube. A channel is defined between an outer surface of the shield tube and an inner surface of the outer tube. The shield tube is configured to move longitudinally within the outer tube.