Nuclear Reactor Component Handling Riser and Pivot Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for installing, removing, and replacing control rod drive mechanisms (CRDMs) in Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) nuclear reactors lack flexibility to accommodate different power plant designs and configurations, making them cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a riser apparatus with a lift assembly and drive assemblies, along with a transition cart having a pivot mechanism, allows for the selective rotation and movement of the riser apparatus from a horizontal to a vertical position, enabling flexible installation, removal, and replacement of CRDMs or other components within the reactor vessel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing systems for installing or removing CRDMs are used, then the installation process can be completed, but the system lacks flexibility to accommodate different power plant designs and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The riser apparatus is designed as a universal system that can accommodate different CRDM configurations and power plant designs. The apparatus includes adjustable support structures and modular components that can be configured for various reactor vessel arrangements, enabling a single system design to serve multiple applications without requiring custom-built solutions for each plant configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates movable and adjustable components including the riser apparatus that can be positioned at different angles and locations. The cart-based mounting system allows dynamic repositioning throughout the reactor vessel, and the apparatus can adapt its configuration based on the specific CRDM being installed or removed, providing flexibility without permanent fixed installations.
2Productivity
If traditional CRDM installation systems are used, then the component can be installed, but the process is cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The riser apparatus serves as an intermediary device between the CRDM component and the reactor vessel. It provides a controlled interface for installing and removing CRDMs, allowing precise positioning and alignment during the installation process. The apparatus acts as a bridge that simplifies the transfer of heavy components into the confined reactor vessel space, making the operation more manageable and efficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows preliminary positioning and preparation of CRDM components outside the reactor vessel using the riser apparatus and cart system. Components can be pre-assembled, inspected, and positioned on the cart before being moved into the reactor vessel, reducing the complexity and time required for actual installation within the confined reactor space.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This system simplifies and facilitates the installation, removal, and replacement of CRDMs, accommodating various reactor configurations, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and adaptability in different BWR designs.
Implementation Method 1
a lead screw, a motor operatively coupled to a first end of the lead screw for rotating the lead screw, a nut housing coupled to the lead screw, where rotation of the lead screw by the motor causes the nut housing to move along the lead screw
Implementation Method 2
a transition cart having a pivot mechanism, wherein the riser apparatus is selectively engageable with the pivot mechanism and the pivot mechanism is structured to selectively rotate the riser apparatus from a horizontal position to a vertical position
Implementation Method 3
a motor operatively coupled to a first end of the lead screw for rotating the lead screw
Data Source
AI summary
A system for installing or removing a component (8) of a nuclear reactor, such as a CRDM, includes a riser apparatus (20) having a lift assembly (88) structured to hold and support the component and a first drive assembly (82, 84, 86) coupled to the lift assembly and structured to selectively move the lift assembly and the component along a length of the riser apparatus, and a transition cart (18) movable along an under vessel area (2) of the nuclear reactor and having a pivot mechanism (54, 62, 64, 68), wherein the riser apparatus is selectively engageable with the pivot mechanism and the pivot mechanism is structured to selectively rotate the riser apparatus from a horizontal position to a vertical position. The riser apparatus may also include a second drive assembly (110,112,114) structured to selectively move the riser apparatus relative to the transition cart in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the riser apparatus.