Uranium isotopes separation - using condensate cascade with gaseous counterflow

摘要

Improved separation of isotopes 235UF6 and 238UF6 from UF6 feed stock by means of a gaseous and atomised condensate counterflow. The feed stock is heated in the separator vessel, which is insualted, and the resultant gas rises to condense on the outer plate surface of a cooler at the top of the vessel. The condensate falls into collector trays with spray nozzles and air supply to atomise the spray. Collector trays with nozzles are arranged at successively lower levels throughout the vessel to provide a cascade and total cross-section coverage. At the upper level, perforated tubes are arranged to entrap the lighter gaseous 235UF6 isotope and vacuum it out, the heavier 238UF6 isotope falling to the bottom waste outlet in the vessel.