William J Smoody

US Patent:

57373779, Apr 7, 1998

Filed:

Feb 5, 1996

Appl. No.:

8/596961

Inventors:

David J. Stefko - Jeannette PA
Robert M. Blumstein - Hempfield PA
Robert E. Meuschke - Monroeville PA
William J. Smoody - North Huntingdon PA
John A. Klimek - Oakdale PA
Edward H. Smith - Brave PA

Assignee:

Westinghouse Electric Corporation - Pittsburgh PA

International Classification:

G21C 1920
G21C 1706

US Classification:

376268

Abstract:

A camera mast system permits remote inspection of nuclear fuel assemblies and other components of nuclear reactors. The system includes a camera mast assembly mounted on a refueling mast which may be positioned over a selected fuel assembly in the reactor core. An extendable camera mast having a camera mounted thereon moves vertically with respect to a stationary camera mast and the refueling mast in order to allow for visual inspection of various components in the reactor core. The camera mast assembly preferably includes a video cable take-up mechanism for handling the camera video cable as the extendable camera mast is moved up and down. The camera mast assembly is preferably removably mounted on the refueling mast in order to aid in installation and removal. The removable mounting also allows the camera mast assembly to be used independently of the refueling mast. The camera mast assembly may optionally include an extendable fuel assembly guide mast including a guide member which facilitates placement of fuel assemblies within the reactor core.