Device and method for connecting to the pipe installation in the interior of a nuclear reactor.

摘要

A T-box/thermal sleeve assembly replaces a damaged T-box/thermal sleeve in a core spray nozzle of a nuclear reactor. To replace the parts, the T-box and a portion of the extant thermal sleeve are removed from a location within the reactor vessel wall. The end of the thermal sleeve remnant is smoothed and a groove is formed along its interior surface. A replacement T-box/thermal sleeve and collet assembly are inserted into the nozzle bore from the interior of the vessel wall. The collet has axially projecting fingers with radial flanges for engaging in the groove to form a mechanical connection between the thermal sleeve remnant and the T-box/thermal sleeve replacement. A Belleville spring washer is interposed between the assembly and thermal sleeve remnant to place both parts in compression. A retention sleeve is screwthreaded within the replacement thermal sleeve to lock the fingers from radial movement. Adjustable wedge blocks are mounted about the replacement T-box/thermal sleeve to axially align the replacement assembly with the thermal sleeve remnant.