Underwater Assembly Tests of Improved Capsule Components by Using a Capsule Assembly Machine

Various in-pile test programs for the development of new fuels and materials are planned for the HANARO reactor. To meet the demands for the required tests in the HANARO reactor, new capsule assembling technology is required in the HANARO reactor. For this reason, a series of analyses and experiments has been performed since 2003. In 2006, in order to conduct a technical review and to demonstrate performance of newly developed capsule assembly techniques in the HANARO reactor operating conditions, appropriateness of capsule components design through underwater assembly tests were performed. Capsule components mockups were fully tested to assure the suitability of the components for the intended application. Design specifications of the capsule components such as a protection tube, flanges, bolts, and tools were fully optimized through a series of functional tests. For the assembly tests under water, a special water tank was designed and manufactured by considering the size and depth of the HANARO reactor water pool and workability of tools for a bolting and a clamping. The capsule assembly testing under water was found to be easier than that in air and it helped to improve operational efficiency of capsule assembly techniques thus enhancing safety. From the tests, tools with an introduction of an universal joint concept, a distance marking on the top of the tools, and an introduction of stainless steel WPB or Inconel spring washers were recommended