DEVICE AND METHOD OF SEALING FOR CONTROLLING LEVEL OF FLUID

摘要

A sealoff device and method are disclosed for controlling the level of a fluid within first and second confined regions which are arranged in fluid communication with one another. In the preferred embodiment, the invention permits shielding of the tube bundle contained within the wrapper of a nuclear steam generator while controlling the level of the working fluid within the surrounding annular downcomer passage. A sealoff device constructed of a flexible hollow tube is provided in sealing engagement between the wrapper and outer shell forming the downcomer passage to provide a substantially fluid-tight seal thereat. The sealoff device permits the maintaining of a high water level inside the wrapper to shield the tube bundle which is emitting nuclear radiation while maintaining a low water level within the downcomer passage to permit greater accessibility for repair and maintenance of the steam generator in a dry environment and to permit greatly increased working time in a greatly reduced radiation field.