LOWER END CAP AND LOWER END CAP OF FUEL RODS WITH INTEGRATED DEBRIS FUEL BAR RETAINERS AND DETECTION FILTERS

摘要

An improved restraint system for retaining fuel rods in a fuel assembly is described. The restraint system includes a plurality of first engagement surfaces on the lower end of a fuel assembly. There is at least one gripping surface for each fuel rod. A second engaging surface is formed on the lower end plug of each fuel rod. The first and second engagement surfaces are configured to engage together to axially and laterally retain each fuel rod in the fuel assembly. Debris baffles may also be provided to remove debris from the coolant channels surrounding the fuel rods.