The effect made on the RM (Remote Mechanical) Line equipment by an increase in the plant batch size from ca. 300 grams to ca. 375 grams has been studied. Using the process as determined by Production Test 234-3, the volumes for a 300 gram batch and a 375 gram batch are as follows, respectively: volume of plutonium peroxide (alcohol washed, filtered)--1,275 cc., 1,593 cc.; volume of plutonium tetrafluoride (as produced)--617.7 cc., 772 cc.; and volume of reduction charge (tamped)--511 cc., 638 cc. The difficulties encountered with 375 gram batches are discussed.

None

Experimental results indicate that the production of UO/sub 3/ by the continuous calcination process is practicable. (W.L.H.)

In view of current work on the Columbia River by the Biology Division and Development Division of the Health Instrument Divisions and the contemplated studies of the US Public Health Service Group new at Hanford, it was suggested that the groups review their programs related to studies of the Columbia River. The work carried out by the Control Functions Section of the Health Instrument Division in this respect is reviewed in outline form. Some of the studies are jointly carried out by the Control Functions Section and the Methods Group of the Environmental Hazards Section. The principal purpose for monitoring the Columbia River is to evaluate any radiation hazards that might exist as the result of discharging radioactive effluent into the river from the Hanford pile areas. The miscellaneous special studies conducted so supplement the routine monitoring program are pointed at into the river to better understand the effects of this radioactive contamination on the environment of the river and/or any drinking water supplies using the Columbia river as a source of supply. 1 fig.

None

The study of radiation damage to the graphite moderator is largely dependent upon the availability of graphite samples from the moderator itself. Because of the varied temperature-flux history and complicated structure of the piles, it is impossible to study the problem from the laboratory standpoint alone. The samples of greatest interest are those taken from the sections of the moderator which have received the greatest damage. However, a comprehensive study requires samples from all sections of the graphite moderator. It is desirable that these samples be solid in order that physical and dimensional measurements of all types may be made. Solid samples enable thermal conductivity measurements and the gradients of damage across tube blocks to be measured. To provide such samples, it was necessary to design some device which would cut solid samples from any location in the pile through the process Channels. The graphite core borer was desigred specifically for this purpose. The objective of this Production Test was to test the operation of the core barer and evaluate the results of its performance.

The power output of the piles is being restricted primarily by three important limitations; those due to graphite temperatures, slug and tube corrosion and maximum power per tube or ``boiling disease.`` The purpose of this document is to present means for increasing very appreciably the ``boiling disease`` limits. In addition, means for alleviating the corrosion limitations will be discussed.