Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for the inspection of nuclear fuel rods to detect defects or failures in such rods. Assemblies of fuel rods are immersed in water and means are provided for causing a change in the relative pressures in the water and within the fuel rod such that material is expelled from the rod through any defects that may exist. Means are provided for detecting the emission of bubbles, or other material expelled from the rod, and for locating the position of the defective rod in the assembly. The method is also applicable to detection of contaminants in new fuel rods which may result in the development of defects in the rod.

Abstract: A rack is provided for the storage of spent nuclear fuel assemblies in a water-filled storage pit. The rack consists of an array of storage cells containing the fuel assemblies and poison boxes consisting of water-filled enclosures having walls incorporating a neutron-absorbing material. The poison boxes function as neutron traps, and the storage cells and poison boxes are arranged in such a manner that each poison box is immediately adjacent at least one storage cell, and adjacent storage cells are in contact on at least one side of each cell. This results in maximizing the number of fuel assemblies that can be stored in a given space.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to nuclear fuel reactors, and more particularly relates to a method and apparatus, based upon vibration detection and analysis techniques, for detecting a failure or rupture of fuel elements or tubes containing nuclear fuel.