Abstract: Removable cruciforms are selectively installed at predetermined, spaced elevations within ice baskets associated with a nuclear power system, each ice basket having a generally cylindrical sidewall with plural, annular retaining rings secured therein at predetermined, spaced elevations, each cruciform being installed at predetermined, axially displaced elevations, engaging a corresponding annular retaining ring. Each cruciform comprises a pair of brackets joined together between parallel base portions by respective support plate assemblies and slide plates in telescoping, sliding relationshp, defining with the base portions, a spring housing of generally square configuration within which a generally C-shaped spring is received. A pair of legs extends integrally from the longitudinal edges of the base portion of each bracket, angularly disposed so as to extend radially within the ice basket.

Abstract: A handling tool for selectively removable cruciforms employed in ice baskets of the type employed with nuclear power generator systems. The tool includes clamping means for engaging a compressible central portion of the removable cruciform to retract same inwardly and permit moving same, in a horizontal orientation, throughout the axial height of the interior of the ice basket. When at a desired elevation, selective actuating means moves previously retracted guide means to an extended or projected position for engaging a retaining ring of the ice basket and supporting the tool on the ring. The clamping means is selectively actuated to the disengaged position for releasing the cruciform whereupon the same expands, projecting legs associated therewith radially outwardly and engaging the retaining ring, to support the cruciform on the ring. The tool may thereafter be removed.

Abstract: An ice removal auger is lowered by a winch into a generally cylindrical ice containment structure from an open upper end of the structure and is controlled remotely from the exterior of the structure, for cutting and removing a body of ice therewithin. The auger comprises a power drive assembly mounted on a carriage for relative translational and nonrotational movement with respect thereto, the carriage including selectively operable engagement means which are remotely controlled from the exterior of the ice containment structure for engaging the interior cylindrical wall surface thereof to stabilize the power drive assembly against rotation relative to the ice containment structure, the power drive assembly including a motor connected through a shaft to a cutter at the lower end of the shaft which drives same in rotation, while the assembly moves axially downwardly in translation relative to the carriage for gradual and continuous cutting and removing of the body of ice.