An abrasive cutoff machine design, based upon a previous model, (1) was undertaken to provide for the sampling of radioactive material. the design objective was; first, to provide samples for metallographic examination, second, to provide samples for physical and mechanical property testing, and, third, to meet the following design requirements: 1. Remote operation. 2. Airborne contamination control. 3. Radioactive waste collection. 4. Remote maintenance.

Twenty-five hundred psi ring-type flanges, ring gaskets, bolts, and special connectors were tested for adaptability to the aqueous homogenous reactor. High pressure line closures were studied to obtain empirical data pertinent to the selection or design of a connector capable of withstanding sustained thermal cycling and high pressures encountered in the aqueous homogenous reactor. Specialized stress-strain measurement techniques yielded information concerning flange deformation, ring type gaskets, bolts, and special connectors. The results indicated that no totally acceptable connector is currently available. Most promising of the combination of components tested during this period was a 2500 psi ring type flange with an accurately machined octagonal gasket and Grade B-7 bolts.