Task 6: Test Reactor Irradiation Coordination
This task provides the support required to supply and coordinate irradiation services needed by NRC contractors, such as the UCSB and the ORNL HSSI Program at the University of Michigan FNR. These services include the design and assembly of irradiation facilities (and/or capsules), as well as arranging for their exposure, periodic monitoring by remote computer access and interaction with the FNR staff, and return of specimens to the originating research organization.
Shown in Figure 2 are the six instrument panels used for controlling and monitoring the IAR (three on the left) and the UCSB (three on the right) experiments at the FNR. Figure 3 shows a view of the UCSB IVAR high- and low-flux capsules being removed from the Irradiation Facility to the special transfer rack in preparation for a sample change out. The IAR North and IAR South capsules and the thermal shield remain on the trolley at a pool depth of 26 feet. The trolley is always pulled away from the reactor core during change outs. This figure provides a useful reference to the TORT model shown in Figure 1, Subtask 3.2.
Pressure
Vessel Steel Materials Irradiation Facilities are Available
Through the Heavy Section Steel Irradiation (HSSI) Program:
Current status of HSSI/UCSB-IVAR Facility
- Multiple temperature zones (270°C, 290°C, and 310°C, ± 2°C control)
- Wide fast flux range (0.07 to 1 x 10
12 neutrons/cm2 • s)- Removable and replaceable subcapsules
- Variety of specimens can be accommodated
Current status of HSSI-IAR Facilities
- Single temperature zone (200°C to 450°C, ± 2°C control)
- Fast flux of 0.3 to 0.8 x 10
12 neutrons/cm2 • s)- Specimens can be removed and replaced
- Variety of specimens can be accommodated
