This document reports the result of an engineering analysis and evaluation of the Zone Temperature Monitoring System. The main function of the system is to protect the reactor from localized increases in reactor power which would be reflected by increases in the tube outlet temperatures in the affected zones of the reactor. This function has been implemented by the installation of immersion temperature detectors on 109 representative process tubes. The signals from the detectors will be monitored and will automatically annunciate, initiate a power setback, or initiate a reactor scram should the outlet temperature of one, two, or three tubes exceed an adjustable, preset limit.

The small critical mass of plutonium which limits charge size, coupled with its value necessithting quantitative recovery from all residues, makes the direct recovery of mechanically entrapped plutonium from casting skulls and oxidized turnings an economic necessity. The newest method used at the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory for the direct recovery of entrapped plutonium involves mechanical stirring and vibration of the plutonium melt to physically break up to spongy skull and oxide film, thus allowing the heavier molten plutonium to settle out at the bottom of the melt. The recovery equipment and procedures are described. (auth)

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