Gripping device for a lifting mechanism, especially in a core reactor for depositing and picking up fuel elements and control rods

In a gripping device adapted for cooperation with gripping tools constructed for releasable engagement with longitudinally extending bodies;

• said device comprising a body adapted for suspension from a lifting and transporting mechanism, said body including an upper part and a lower part in telescopic reciprocable engagement, upper and lower power operable devices in said lower part, gripping means carried by said lower part for coupling the lower part to a gripping tool and connected to said upper power operable device, said lower power operable device adapted for actuating the gripping tool connected to said lower part for coupling the gripping tool to a body to be lifted thereby, respective spring means biasing said power operable devices in coupling direction, a sleeve connected to each power operable device and extending upwardly therefrom, said sleeves being in slidable telescopic engagement, said springs surrounding said sleeves and at one end bearing on a support stationary with said second part and at the other end bearing on a plate connected to the respective sleeve.