Grid with nozzle-type coolant deflecting channels for use in nuclear reactor fuel assemblies

Abstract

A grid with coolant deflecting channels for used in nuclear fuel assemblies is disclosed. In the grid, two sets of intersecting grid strips are arranged in sets at right angles to each other prior to being encircled by four perimeter strips, thus forming a plurality of four-walled cells individually placing and supporting an elongated fuel rod therein. Each of the grid strips is made up of two narrow sheets which are deformed at a plurality of regularly spaced portions to provide nozzle-type coolant deflecting channels. The channels individually have an upright Y-shaped or reversed Y-shaped configuration capable of so deflecting coolant as to mix low temperature coolant with high temperature coolant. The channels thus form a uniform temperature distribution within a fuel assembly. The channels are so inclined with respect to the axes of the fuel rods as to form wide and linear positioning springs at middle portions thereof. The middle portions of the channels thus individually have a dual function of a deflecting channel for coolant and a positioning spring for the fuel rods.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.