Patents by Inventor Kenneth F. Powell

Kenneth F. Powell has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Method for making nuclear fuel element
    Patent number: 4202849
    Abstract: A nuclear fuel element and a method for making the fuel element are described. The fuel element comprises a graphite block in which elongated holes are filled with nuclear fuel. The nuclear fuel in each of the holes comprises a plurality of fuel rod segments which are, before firing, spaced from each other by a plurality of spacers. Upon firing, the spacer material gasifies, leaving unfilled gaps between the fuel rod segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1977
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1980
    Assignee: General Atomic Company
    Inventors: Gary N. Miertschin, Kenneth F. Powell
  • Nuclear fuel element and method for making same
    Patent number: 4060454
    Abstract: A nuclear fuel element and a method for making the fuel element are described. The fuel element comprises a graphite block in which elongated holes are filled with nuclear fuel. The nuclear fuel in each of the holes comprises a plurality of fuel rod segments which are, before firing, spaced from each other by a plurality of spacers. Upon firing, the spacer material gasifies, leaving unfilled gaps between the fuel rod segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1975
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1977
    Assignee: General Atomic Company
    Inventors: Gary N. Miertschin, Kenneth F. Powell