Fuel assembly for experimental nuclear reactors or critical assemblies

A simplified design is described of a fuel assembly for experimental reactors and critical assemblies. The design eliminates the assembly head and transfers its function to the outer can. Thus, access is facilitated to the individual fuel elements while transportability of the assembly is maintained. The outer assembly can is extended by a part which houses bores for mounting and handling. Access to the bores is possible by adjusting the relative orientation of assemblies in the reactor core or by different length of the extended parts of the can. Direct acces to fuel elements makes it possible to plan experiments without transporting the assembly between the reactor and the mounting stand. Handling time in the mounting stand is reduced and the risk is removed of damage during assembly head mounting and dismantling. (Pu)