Activities covered in this report for the month of January are as follows: (1) power coefficient test of the F Pile; (2) control rod calibration; (3) investigations into reactivity gains possible by zoning the pile for metal charging; (4) polonium production under emergency conditions: (5) analysis of process tube ion chamber failures; (6) measurements of the thermal neutron flux in various pockets of the E Test Hole of the F Pile; (7) reactivity balance of each of the operating piles at beginning and end of this report period; (8) graphite studies; (9) pile shielding; (10) radiation measurements on a simulated D-R rod guide and rod; and (11) calculation of radioactive isotopes expected in cooling water.

This report gives the weekly status for the B, D, and F piles. Also given is the reactivity status at the end of the week for each pile. Process water control and pressure drop studies are discussed. Finally a brief discussion is given of the graphite expansion problem.

This site description of the Hanford Reservation from February 1943 gives size, topography, geology, population, water supply, railroad, highway, power, meteorological, and valuation information. Maps are included.

On February 4 at a conference in T.C. Gary`s office attended by Messrs. Wood, Gary, H.T. Daniels, Burns and C.R. Johnson, the design of the strap plates on the front and rear shields of the pile was discussed from the standpoint of welding technique in the field. Discussion of the design centered about the plug welding of the plates to the Laminated blocks and the ability of the field to perform this work properly. It was decided that welding specialists should be consulted prior to the beginning of the actual field erection in order that the best technique could be employed to guarantee good workmanship. It was agreed that a conference with such specialists should embrace both the features of the design as well as the practical phases of welding itself. This report provides details of this conference.

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The Purpose of this manual is to describe preparation of bismuth powder for use in process operations. Bismuth powder is to be prepared in Room 232 of ``T`` Building where all necessary apparatus is installed.