Abstract: A refueling mast for a reactor complex includes four generally cylindrical tubes. Each inner tube has vertical grooved tracks formed therein. Each outer tube has a guide roller mounted thereon with grooves which mate with track grooves of a respective track on the adjacent inner tube. Track grooves are cold formed moving a roller die tool up and down each inner tube, while increasing pressure on the incorporated die rollers. This process flattens the inner tube where the tracks are being formed. The grooved tracks and the associated flattening provide the torsional rigidity required on the mast tubes for precise positioning and orientation of fuel elements.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 31, 1989
Date of Patent:
January 28, 1992
Assignee:
General Electric Company
Inventors:
Robert C. Dixon, James R. Punches, David L. Rousar, David L. Faulstich