INSPECTION OF SM-1 CONTROL ROD SEAL FAILURE
Abstract
A laboratory test was completed to check leakage rates of a control rod drive seal assembly (shaft, seal rings and diaphragms) which had been in operation in the SM-1 since its original startup. The testing was performed at simulated reactor operating pressure (1200 psi) and room temperature to determine the leakage rate with the seal correctly assembled and with it assembled as it had been during reactor operation i.e., the first diaphragm and seal ring turned around on the seal shaft. No measurable wear was found when the components were measured. Micrographical examination of the Cr plate on a seal shaft removed from the SM-1 showed considerable pitting, corrosion and erosion under and adjacent to some of the satellite ring areas. The most likely cause of removal of the Cr plate was the poor quality plating and inadequate preplate cleaning which resulted in non-metallic inclusions in the material.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 16, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0265582
Entities
People
- R. A. Chittum
- R. M. Saccocio