NUCLEAR MERCHANT SHIP REACTOR PROJECT QUARTERLY TECHNICAL REPORT, JANUARY- MARCH 1959

Stress calculations proved the adequacy of the primary inlet piping configuration. Vibration snubbers are provided for at about 20 points on the primary piping, pumps, steam drums, and pressurizer. Final reactor design curves were completed. Various experiments performed in the critical experiment program are reported. A prototype manufacturing process for the fuel pellets was developed. Vertical and inclined testing of the prototype control rod drive-line was completed. In the reactor primary system, flushing connections were added to the upper end-turn of the primary pump. cooling coils. Primary shielding was modified to reduce dose rates. Equilibrium fission product activity in the buffer seal system was investigated. (B.O.G.)