Apparatus for steam generator tube wrapper spacer and support block removal

Apparatus for cutting spacer and support members extending at distributed locations between the tube-bundle-encircling wrapper and the outer shell of a vertically-extending nuclear steam generator with top removed, comprising:

• a cutting torch disposed in an annulus between said wrapper and said shell for cutting through said spacer and support members,
• a vertical support column extending downwardly in said annulus in support of said torch at its lower end,
• said support column including a plurality of longitudinal separably-interconnected sections,
• an elongated guide member extending above the upper edge of said wrapper and including a rack extending along the length thereof,
• vertically movable motorized carriage means on said guide member in motion-driving position-securing cooperation with said rack,
• horizontally adjustable arm means carried by said carriage means,
• column-supportable releasable clamp means on said arm for clamped support of said column, and,
• conduit means extending along said column for conveying operating gas to said cutting torch.