Introductory Comments
In order to achieve a more dynamic and concurrent Problem Solving Process (PSP), the group will endeavour to maintain constant communications throughout the PSP.
This website should be used for the dissemination and also the acquiring of any relevant and pertininent meeting/agenda informations. At the end of every week it is expected that each member will have done four main things.
1. Each member should have created a template for a Gantt chart, which they will update weekly to reflect the progress of their individual assignments ( incorporating a timescale is key)
2. Members should have submitted their Gantt Charts for review and should evaluate other members Gantt charts based on their postings in the forum.
3. Attempts must be made to meet online at a mutually convenient time so that we can all brainstorm the possible problems and the best way to assess whether or current analyses fit the real case scenario.
4. Ideas, Suggestions etc. regarding the Information Packages, Press Statements etc. should be updated to reflect the developments in our thought process i.e if we decide that the conclusions we drew the week before were invalid and thus our press releases not pertinent anymore.
Remember
TEAMWORK, COMMUNICATIONS, RESEARCH, AND PERSERVENCE
are the ways to success on this project!
Problem Summary
The pressure tube and calandria tube are separated by an annulus gas (CO 2 ) and supported by garter springs located at every 1.5 to 2 meters along the channel. The purpose of the garter springs is to keep the pressure tube supported and concentric in the calandria tube. The garter springs prevents the sag of the pressure tube, which results in the contact of both tubes and leads to fretting (thinning) of the pressure tube. Also, it prevents heat transfer from the hot pressure tube to the cold calandria tube which can result in blisters (high concentration of hydrogen and deuterium in contact surface).
The rupture of the pressure tube in channel G16 of Unit 2 was a result of two garter springs that were not in the design location and allowed the outlet half of the pressure tube to sag into contact with the calandria tube. Based upon analysis of the calandria tube, it was concluded that the pressure tube and calandria tube had been in contact for nine to eleven years prior to failure.
< to read more of the technical report, click here >
