Outline of simulation test apparatus for fuel recycle in FBRs and its role

The Power Reactor and Nuclear Fuel Development Corp. has advanced the development of the fuel recycle technology for FBRs since 1975 to recover plutonium and uranium from the spent fuel of FBRs, fabricate them into fuel again and recycle to FBRs. In March, 1984, the mock-up apparatus was completed to be used for various tests, intending to construct a pilot plant in future. The principle of fuel multiplication in FBRs and the objective of the development of fuel recycle technology are briefly described. In the fuel recycle technology for FBRs, fuel reprocessing, conversion, fuel fabrication and waste treatment are included. As the problems peculiar to FBR fuel, there are the disassembling of wrapper pipes, the measures to cope with fine cladding tubes with spacer wires, the deterioration of solvent due to the high content of fission products and the handling of more plutonium. The course of development and present status of fuel recycle technology are reported. The major components of the mock-up apparatus are a laser beam fuel assembly disassembling apparatus, a fuel pin shearing machine, a distributor, fuel dissolution tanks and remote maintenance equipment. The tests carried out with this mock-up apparatus and the future plan are shown. (Kako, I.)