Patent Number: 048511854
Section: abstract

Method and apparatus for shielding an otherwise exposed upper portion of a radioactive reactor component disposed in a refueling pool of water having a depth less than the height of the component. A vessel with a top end wall, a side wall larger than the transverse size of the component is disposed over the exposed upper portion until the lower rim thereof is immersed in the pool and the top end wall and the side wall are in spaced relation to the upper portion of the component. Fluid, mainly air, is evacuated from the vessel to cause water from the pool to enter the vessel and provide a water level therein which is above the water level in the pool and between the component and the walls of the vessel. The vessel is reinforced to withstand the pressures caused by removal of fluid therefrom and is suspended by beams and legs, the latter being engageable with the pool walls. The fluid is evacuated by a pump controlled by a level detector responsive to the water level in the vessel to maintain the desired latter water level.