Primary Inventor: Krishna P. Singh
Contributing Inventor(s): John Griffiths
Date: Aug. 8, 2023
Status: Granted
Jurisdiction: US
Assignee: Holtec International
Equipment Type: Transfer Cask
Docket Number: HOL-133
Application Number: 17/132,102
Patent Number: US 11,721,447 B2
Prior Publication Data: US 2021.0225541 A1 – Jul. 22, 2021
Related U.S. Application Data: Provisional application No. 62/954,083, filed on Dec. 27, 2019.
Abstract: An impact amelioration system for nuclear fuel storage components in one embodiment includes a fuel storage canister and outer cask receiving the canister. The canister is configured for storing spent nuclear fuel or other high level radioactive waste. A plurality of impact limiter assemblies are disposed on the bottom closure plate of the cask at the canister interface. Each impact limiter assembly comprises an impact limiter plug frictionally engaged with a corresponding plug hole formed in the cask closure plate. The canister rests on tops of the plugs, which may protrude upwards beyond the top surface of the bottom closure lid. The plugs and holes may mating tapered and frictionally engaged surfaces. During a cask drop event, the canister drives the plugs deeper into the plug holes and elastoplastically deform to dissipate the kinetic impact energy and protect the structural integrity of the canister and its contents.
