Patent ID: 6226341
Filing Date: 2001-05-01
Classification: G21C,Y02E

Abstract:
A neutronic reactor comprising an active portion containing material fissionable by neutrons of thermal energy, a shield surrounding the active portion of the reactor, means to control a neutronic chain reaction within the reactor, comprising a safety device and a regulating device, the safety device including means defining a vertical channel extending into the reactor from an aperture in the shield, a rod containing neutron-absorbing material slidably disposed within the channel, and means to introduce bodies of neutron-absorbing materials into the channel comprising a hopper having a hollow sleeve disposed within the channel and extending through the aperture in the shield, a spiral fin disposed about the sleeve in the portion of the channel extending through the shield, said hopper having an inner and outer wall defining a compartment adapted to contain bodies of neutron-absorbing materials, a floor disposed between said inner and outer walls and a door disposed within the floor opening into the portion of the channel containing the spiraled fins.