Critical mass control specifications: Hoods 7-C and 9-B

摘要

This report discusses the critical mass control specifications for Hoods 7-C and 9-B have become obsolete due to needed storage within the confines of Hood 9-C, and equipment modifications. Nuclear safety in Hood 7-C and 9-B depends almost entirely on controlling the mass and geometry of the plutonium compounds not confined by the processing equipment. Generally, the processing vessels and associated piping are designed and arranged in the hood to be critically safe at full operating capacity. This safety is not assured, however, if plutonium masses outside of the equipment exceed certain proportions of geometry and mass. For those cases where always safe geometry confinement cannot be assured, administrative controls are established.