Abstract: A joint restraint includes a split ring terminating in radially outwardly extending flanges. A shell includes a cylindrical sleeve, an annular flange at one end and arms projecting generally tangentially for securement behind lugs on a standard bell end of a fitting. With the split ring disposed within the shell and flanges projecting through a radial opening through the shell, a pipe end may be inserted through the joint restraint into the bell. By compressing the split ring about the pipe end by drawing the flanges toward one another and bolting them in place, relative axial movement of the pipe end and fitting is precluded by engagement of the shell flange and split ring.

Abstract: An upper end fitting for a nuclear fuel assembly. A main body portion that is square in section has a base rigidly attached thereto. A combined pedestal and holddown spring assembly received in the main body portion is formed from leaf springs attached together by a bolt and nut. The leaf springs are bolted together such that the exterior radius or convex surface of the springs face each other. The bolt and nut are sized and shaped to serve as the pedestal for the control assembly of the reactor. A spring retainer movably received in the main body portion retains the springs inside the main body portion. The retainer is also provided with a bore therethrough sized to allow the bolt/pedestal to extend therethrough.

Abstract: A nuclear fuel assembly with a debris filter. The lower end fitting of the fuel assembly has a stamped plate attached thereto that serves as a debris filter immediately upstream of the fuel rods. The stamped plate is provided with a plurality of flow holes in a size and pattern that provides filtration of debris damaging to the fuel rods while maintaining adequate coolant flow through the fuel assembly.

Abstract: A nuclear fuel assembly with a debris filter. The lower end fitting of the fuel assembly has a stamped plate attached thereto that serves as a debris filter immediately upstream of the fuel rods. The stamped plate is provided with a plurality of flow holes in a size and pattern that provides filtration of debris damaging to the fuel rods while maintaining adequate coolant flow through the fuel assembly.