Method for loading fuel rods into a container

摘要

A method and an apparatus for loading containers with individual fuel rods or fuel-rod sections of irradiated nuclear reactor fuel elements are disclosed. In order to ensure maximum safety, cleanliness and close packing when loading the containers, the fuel rods or fuel-rod sections are horizontally front-loaded into the container which is horizontally positioned. The loading aperture is located as closely as possible to the upper inner periphery of the container. Following their insertion, the fuel rods or fuel-rod sections will drop onto the inner wall surface of the container or onto the already existing pile of previously loaded fuel rods or fuel-rod sections. The container for loading with such a method has a loading aperture in the end wall thereof arranged close to the inner periphery thereof for insertion of the fuel rods or fuel-rod sections. The apparatus for loading containers in accordance with the method disclosed includes a loading trough which is insertable into a loading aperture in the container and serves to load the fuel rods or fuel-rod sections. The loading trough is capable of being rotated about its longitudinal axis whereupon the fuel rod or fuel-rod section drops down.