Abstract: A fluid tight mechanical clamp for creating a compressed graphite seal between a resistance temperature detector nozzle and a NSSS piping hot or cold leg pipe is provided which includes a split graphite seal ring, a peripheral seal back-up ring, a split load sleeve to axially compress and radially expand the split seal ring, a reactor plate and load ring with bolts to drive the load sleeve and compress the seal, and a blowout retainer to prevent the nozzle from blowing out of its seat in the pipe wall in the event of a weld failure. Extensive welding procedures to repair nozzle leaks are thus eliminated.