Nuclear cryogenics?
Nuclear cryogenics?
(OP)
Hello to everybody. I am a newcomer. My question:
Is there some nuclear code applicable (like ASME Section III) to a cryogenic (around 15 Kelvin) nuclear system (handling radioactive fluid) for design and construction or better (as could be the standard practice..), encapsulate this cryogenic system into a nuclear class 3 (let's say) bigger tank - acting like a containement -, and leave the cryogenic nuclear system be designed and construct as per ISO conventional standards?
Thank you.
Is there some nuclear code applicable (like ASME Section III) to a cryogenic (around 15 Kelvin) nuclear system (handling radioactive fluid) for design and construction or better (as could be the standard practice..), encapsulate this cryogenic system into a nuclear class 3 (let's say) bigger tank - acting like a containement -, and leave the cryogenic nuclear system be designed and construct as per ISO conventional standards?
Thank you.





RE: Nuclear cryogenics?
Patricia Lougheed
Please see FAQ731-376: Eng-Tips.com Forum Policies: Eng-Tips.com Forum Policies for tips on how to make the best use of the Eng-Tips Forums.
RE: Nuclear cryogenics?
It may add "nuclear grade" seismic and shock criteria, plus reserves for thermal events or corrosion or elevated neutron and radiation barbardment over time for graded material and designs in the containment and nuclear support areas - but it does NOT "design" items or processes. If a process is expected to run at 480 degrees F or at 15 degrees K - it doesn't mattter.
You (as the designer) MUST design and prepare the process (radiation and flux and shielding and access as required) FOR the process needs you require. A molten glass process for storing radioactive waste needs to be built for access and cleaning and recharging and removing the finished product just as your cryogenic process must. Simply encasing it in a higer level "pressure vessel" in case of a spill or cracks in the ultra-cold pipes won't be acceptable.
It might help - but that doesn't sound to me like the final commercial (or regulatory-approved) solution.