Abstract: An apparatus and method for scanning the outer profile of control rods in a control rod assembly includes a plurality of rotatably mounted ultrasonic transducers which are mounted for rotation about the axis of at least some of the control rods in the assembly. The assembly is moved in a linear path parallel to the axis of the control rods, past the rotating transducers for scanning the surfaces of the control rods in helical paths. By distributing the transducers in a selected configuration, all control rods in the assembly can eventually be scanned.

Abstract: A rod arraying system for nuclear fuel rods or burnable poison rods. A support structure positions a consolidation canister vertically to receive the rods. A rod loading pattern provides a gap between rods to allow projections to hold each rod in position. One or more rod arraying devices positioned vertically along and inclined toward the canister provide a triangular pitch loading configuration. A guide assembly slidably mounted on the mounting base of the rod arraying device has two guide plates with scalloped edges. The guide plates are offset relative to each other with one being cycled back and forth by an air cylinder to allow individual loading of fuel rods one row at a time. The inclined weight of the guide plates keeps them in position against the rods to prevent unwanted shifting of rods during the loading operation.

Abstract: An apparatus for scanning header tube holes includes a probe assembly designed to engage the surface of the header encircling a header tube hole. The probe assembly includes a spring mounted sensor, in a preferred arrangement, an eddy current probe. A mechanism is provided for supporting and positioning the probe assembly. The mechanism is adapted, in operation, with resilient rings engaging the tube stub. A drive device is provided for imparting axial and circumferential movement to the probe relative to the surface of the hole which is to be inspected.