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The objective of the Production Tests described in this report is to evaluate the operational aspects of a proposed method for reducing minimum downtime. The excess xenon poisoning, which occurs during the first 32--38 hours after the shutdown of a reactor from present equilibrium levels, will be partially overridden by a central enriched zone whose added reactivity contribution would be compensated during normal operation by means of poison splines. The test will be performed at B Reactor.

The exposures calculated from these plans are designed to maximize plant return on the basis that the only restraint on metal usage is that imposed by the economics of the plutonium production process and associated uranium cycle. When metal throughput in limited by ex-reactor physical capabilities to a level lower than the unrestrained requirements, exposures higher than those recommended in this document would be indicated. In essence then, these plans represent minimum economical exposures for current production fuel types, on the basis of attempting to maximize plant returns. The adjustments recommended herein, stem solely from revised estimates of the metal performance level indicies (C{sub R} values) of the various metal types.

This is one of twenty-one volumes summarizing the Aircraft Nuclear Propulsion Program of the General Electric Company. This volume summarizes the methods and techquies developed for use in the thermal design of nuclear reactors associated with that program.

Although a fuel reactor job procedure has not yet been prepared, techniques and equipment used in a current production test are adequate with minor modifications for full reactor Parker fitting reaming. With existing reactor hardware, available flow increases at B, D, and F Reactors would be limited to about 2,500 gpm. The extent of additional rear face piping problems which may be encountered as a result of reaming cannot in several instances be predicted with confidence at this time. It is expected that preliminary answers to currently foreseen problems will be available by April 1, 1961. To some extent, however, this is dependent on production tests under way or proposed, and will require coordination with various Manufacturing Operations. For vibration and flow problems in the downcomer approach piping, conclusive answers may not be available before July, 196l, although there is no positive evidence that the flow increases cannot be absorbed. Increased pressurization of effluent line junction boxes at 105-D has been solved by improved box venting. Increased flows resulting from reaming may require still greater venting capacity, which would be available for capital expenditures on the order of $3,000--$5,000 per area.

This document provides data collected by the Controlled Temperature Tensile Capsule (TISR-243).

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