ORNL-1816 - the Molten Salt Energy Technologies Web Site

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PERIOD ENDING DECEMBER 70, 7954
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ORNL-LR-D’UYG 4451
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0 2 4 6 8 to 42 14 I6 I8
system) functioned satisfactorily. The maximum
level probe in the main sodium pump tank shorted
occasionally, but it subsequently cleared. Application
of the “short burner” (high current source
to separate accumulated condensate from the
probe) had no effect. The maximum operating
level probe in the main fuel pump tank shorted
several times during early stages of hot operation.
Each time, the short was cleared instantaneously
by use of the short burner. After approximately
five such occurrences, the circuit was arranged
for continuous burning, and no further ind
of shorting appeared.
The pump power-transm itt ing V-belts functioned
isfactorily during the entire experiment. The
effect of radiation damage upon the belts may be
deter mined upon inspection.
The power traces indicated good operation of
the pumps under load. The voltage regulation
pump motor supply (an a-c-d-c motor generator
set) became somewhat unsteady with passage
of time. This unsteadiness of voltage regulation
could be seen in pump speed and motor current
indications.
U235 CONCENTRATION (lb/ft3)
Fig. 1.5. [I - (I/m)] vs U235 Concentration for ARE.
The pump tachometer generators performed well
after some initial troubles were corrected. The
tachometer generator on the main fuel and main
sodium pumps failed during the prenuclear hot
operation. These failures, it is believed, can
be traced to improper fit-up of the generator shaft
into inner races of ball bearings and, possibly,
to excessive tension on the V-belt.
lndicat ions were that the ambient temperature
was approximately 175°F in the pump region
during the nuclear and power runs. This is the
highest ambient temperature to which ARE pumps
have been subjected, but the rotary elements
functioned satisfactorily at this temperature. The
lubricating oil and the water temperatures were
maintained at about the values experienced during
hot shakedown development and acceptance
testing.
The vapor trap installed in the main fuel pump of
the ARE system was used successfully during the
enrichment procedure. Several hundred cubic feet
of gas was vented through it. The heated line
and trap were still open at the termination of the
experiment. A report on the vapor trap design
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