Abstract: The invention relates to a hydrotest plug useful in testing the structural integrity of pressure tube arrangements, piping and the like as well as a method for using the same. The hydrostatic test plug comprises a conventional plug with internal passages providing conduit means for injection of a fluid adhesive, air escape means and centering means.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 15, 1975
Date of Patent:
August 30, 1977
Assignee:
The Babcock & Wilcox Company
Inventors:
Joel Gary Feldstein, Jeffrey Forsha Martin
Abstract: A typical embodiment has an end fitting for a nuclear reactor fuel element that is joined to the control rod guide tubes by means of a nut plate assembly. The nut plate assembly has an array of nuts, each engaging the respective threaded end of the control rod guide tubes. The nuts, moreover, are retained on the plate during handling and before fuel element assembly by means of hollow cylindrical locking cups that are brazed to the plate and loosely circumscribe the individual enclosed nuts. After the nuts are threaded onto the respective guide tube ends, the locking cups are partially deformed to prevent one or more of the nuts from working loose during reactor operation. The locking cups also prevent loose or broken end fitting parts from becoming entrained in the reactor coolant.