Abstract: The present invention features a process and apparatus for fabricating ceramic substrates. The apparatus comprises an extruder of the ram or screw type for forcing the ceramic materials through a die to form a log. After leaving the extrusion die, the log enters a conveyor apparatus. The log is conveyed over, and supported upon, a gaseous fluid (air) bearing surface of the conveyor apparatus, until it reaches a dryer carrier. The conveyor apparatus features a support surface for carrying the ceramic materials. The support surface has a plurality of apertures through which the gaseous fluid (air) is directed for supporting the moving log. About the support surface is disposed a mantle for confining the gaseous fluid (air) about the rapidly drying ceramic log. The gaseous fluid (air) is maintained at a relative humidity of approximately between 85 to 97%, and preferably within an approximate range of between 90 and 95%.

Abstract: A spider assembly for supporting a corresponding rod cluster in a pressurized water reactor vessel, through which the core outlet flow passes in a predetermined direction. Each spider assembly comprises a generally cylindrical, central hub disposed in parallel axial relationship to the predetermined direction of the core outlet flow and a plurality of vane assemblies. Each vane assembly comprises means for mounting at least one rod to the assembly and at least one vane element connecting the rod mounting means to the hub. Each vane element has generally parallel, major planar surfaces disposed parallel to the predetermined direction of flow and a square trailing edge configuration which mitigates the shedding forcing function on the spider resulting from the core outlet flow thereover, while maximizing material content and thereby the strength thereof.