Abstract: The invention is a process of repairing cracked or microstructurally damaged portions of irradiated materials, such as nuclear reactor pressure vessels and shrouds. A damaged portion of the irradiated substrate is first removed, such as by electrical discharge machining (EDM). After removing the damaged portion, the recast layer inherent in the EDM process is then removed. Once the repair area substrate material has been removed to a calculated depth, the created cavity is then filled without releasing transmutated elements within the irradiated material. A chamber may be placed on the irradiated material surrounding the repair area to create an isolated work space.

Abstract: The invention is a process of repairing cracked or microstructurally damaged portions of irradiated materials, such as nuclear reactor pressure vessels and shrouds. A damaged portion of the irradiated substrate is first removed, such as by electrical discharge machining (EDM). After removing the damaged portion, the recast layer inherent in the EDM process is then removed. Once the repair area substrate material has been removed to a calculated depth, the created cavity is then filled without releasing transmutated elements within the irradiated material. A chamber may be placed on the irradiated material surrounding the repair area to create an isolated work space.

Abstract: A method for providing weld inlays and onlays to primary nozzles of a nuclear reactor comprising: providing a first welding device in a first primary nozzle of the nuclear reactor; providing a second welding device in a second primary nozzle of the nuclear reactor; providing a third welding device in a third primary nozzle of the nuclear reactor; and operating the first, second and third welding devices at the same time. Other methods are also provided.

Abstract: Anchor assembly apparatus for improving the structural integrity of a guide tube (26) in a nuclear fuel bundle (20). A sleeve (100) has a proximate end (102) and a distal end (104) that is adapted for insertion into a receiving end (38) of the guide tube. A pin (140) has a near end (142) and a far end (144) adapted for insertion into the sleeve at the sleeve's proximate end. The pin has an external surface (148) that applies a radial force to an inner surface (118) of the sleeve when the pin is inserted into the sleeve. The force is sufficient to cause a locking surface (120) on the sleeve to expand radially outward.