Abstract: A fast neutron nuclear reactor having a vessel filled with liquid metal and sealed in its upper part by a box slab having a central opening in which is placed a plug-cover-core overhanging the core of the reactor. The central opening is surmounted by a cell containing the handling and storage mechanism for the plug-cover-core and a mechanism for handling the assemblies. The latter can be moved on annular rails and can be collapsed against the wall of the cell, in order to permit the manipulation of the plug-cover-core. A radial passage connects the cell to a transfer station.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for handling nuclear fuel assemblies, as well as to an assembly for use with such an apparatus.The apparatus comprises a vertically axed guide tube in which is displaced a grapnel, suspended on a flexible connection such as a chain, under the action of a reduction gear. As the grapnel is immobilized in rotation in the guide tube, an assembly is gripped by means of a bayonet system by controlling the rotation of the guide tube-grapnel assembly by a reduction gear. The apparatus can in particular be suspended on the small and/or large rotary plug of a fast neutron nuclear reactor. It can also be used in a handling hod under gas.