Title: Quick release latch for reactor scram

Abstract: A simple, reliable, and fast-acting means for releasing a control element and allowing it to be inserted rapidly into the core region of a nuclear reactor for scram purposes. A latch mechanism grips a coupling head on a nuclear control element to connect the control element to the control drive assembly. The latch mechanism is closed by tensioning a cable or rod with an actuator. The control element is released by de-energizing the actuator, providing fail-safe, rapid release of the control element to effect reactor shutdown. A sensing rod provides indication that the control element is properly positioned in the latch. Two embodiments are illustrated, one involving a collet-type latch mechanism, the other a pliers-type latch mechanism with the actuator located inside the reactor vessel.

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Inventors: Johnson, Melvin L. (Wichita, KS, US)
Shawver, Bruce M. (San Jose, CA, US)

Application Number: 566485
Filing Date: 1975-04-09
Publication_date: 1976-03-02
Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Energy (Washington, DC)
Primary Class(es): 376/233 294/86.15, 294/86.29, 294/88, 294/906, 976/DIG125, 976/DIG252
Other Classes:
US Patent Ref:

3197378	Jul, 1965	Fortescue	294/83.
3515639	Jun, 1970	Pflugrad	176/30.
3733251	May, 1973	Gilbertson et al.	294/86.
3801148	Apr, 1974	Rosgen et al.	294/86.

Other Refs: 819,966

Sep, 1959	UK

Primary Examiner: Blunk, Evon C.
Assistant Examiner: Cherry, Johnny D.
Attorney: Carlson; Dean E., Robertson; F. A., Carnahan; L. E.