Coupling for nuclear reactor fuel elements

The coupling on the points of connection between fuel element structure and filling as well as fuel elements is free from play and torsion-proof during vertical vibration or when handled in the coolant channel of the nuclear reactor. It consists of two coupling halves which have slip surfaces with an inclination of, e.g., 150 on their junction ends. Each coupling half has a half-ring. In coupling position, these engage with one shoulder behind an annular tee-slot on the respective other coupling half. The centering of the two coupling halves with regard to each other takes place by means of a bar with a conical end in a recess in one half as well as by means of a tapered bore fitted to the conical end of the bar in the other half. The center line of this bore is placed aside from the axis of the coupling in such a way that at combining the halves are irreversibly encased because the bar effects a lateral force in the direction of engagement upon the half with the bore. The bar is spring-loaded. (DG)