Support structure core assembly in a nuclear reactor

摘要

A nuclear reactor of the type including a reactor vessel and a core assembly to be maintained in a fixed position within the vessel is disclosed herein along with a structural arrangement also located in the vessel, for supporting the core assembly in its fixed position. The structural arrangement disclosed utilizes a plurality of components including a grillage of I-beams interconnected to one another by welded joints so as to define a unitary structure capable of supporting the core assembly within the vessel. These components including the I-beams are also mechanically interlocked such that a total failure of the welded joints will result in a limited but readily detectable downward deflection of the unitary structure, thereby indicating such a failure while, at the same time, retaining sufficient structural integrity to maintain the core assembly in a supported position.