Abstract: Pipe connector assembly for replacing a core spray line in a nuclear reactor without field cutting, measuring, or welding such line. In one embodiment, the pipe connector assembly includes a first coupling member, a second coupling member, and at least one locking element. The first coupling member includes a flange, a pipe engaging portion, a spherical convex seat portion, a bore and a stud bore. The second coupling member includes a flange having a spherical concave seat portion for receiving the convex seat portion of the first coupling member, a pipe engaging portion, a bore, and a stud bore. The locking element includes at least one spherical washer and a crimp mechanism and couples the first coupling member and the second coupling member by extending through the flange stud bores.

Abstract: An apparatus for repairing a shroud in which one or more seam welds are cracked. The repair involves the attachment of a splice bracket to the shroud so that the bracket bridges the cracked weld seam and is applicable to both vertical and horizontal weld seams. The bracket is intended to structurally replace the shroud seam weld which is cracked. Multiple splice brackets can be placed along the length of a crack. Each splice bracket is attached to the shroud by a plurality of tapered fastener assemblies.

Abstract: An apparatus for repairing a shroud in which one or more seam welds are cracked. The repair involves the attachment of a splice bracket to the shroud so that the bracket bridges the cracked weld seam and is applicable to both vertical and horizontal weld seams. The bracket is intended to structurally replace the shroud seam weld which is cracked. Multiple splice brackets can be placed along the length of a crack. Each splice bracket is attached to the shroud by a plurality of tapered fastener assemblies.

Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a shroud against vertical and lateral deflection. The apparatus forms a vertical load path by which the shroud flange can be anchored to the shroud support plate. In the tensioned state, an upper support assembly exerts a restraining force on the top surface of the shroud flange which opposes separation of the shroud at any assumed failed circumferential weld location. The apparatus further incorporates upper and lower restraint springs which oppose lateral deflection at the elevation of the top guide support ring and at the elevation of the core plate support ring respectively. The vertical restraint assembly is made of material having a coefficient of thermal expansion which is less than a coefficient of thermal expansion of the shroud material. A desired differential thermal expansion of the vertical restraint assembly and the shroud can be attained by the selection of member lengths and materials having appropriate coefficients of thermal expansion.

Abstract: An apparatus for repairing a shroud in which one or more seam welds are cracked. The repair involves the attachment of a splice bracket to the shroud so that the bracket bridges the cracked weld seam and is applicable to both vertical and horizontal weld seams. The bracket is intended to structurally replace the shroud seam weld which is cracked. Multiple splice brackets can be placed along the length of a crack. Each splice bracket is attached to the shroud by a plurality of tapered fastener assemblies.