NUCLEAR STEAM GENERATOR WRAPPER BARREL/TUBE SUPPORT PLATE CONNECTION ASSEMBLY AND RADIAL TUNING METHOD FOR ASSEMBLING SAME

摘要

A steam generator wrapper barrel/tube support plate connection assembly and method for assembling same which prevents interference due to thermal interaction between a wrapper barrel with a first coefficient to thermal expansion and a tube support plate with a second, relatively higher coefficient of thermal expansion. Interference is prevented by radially tuning the wrapper barrel, i.e., locally introducing preload via increased stud thread engagement in the jacking assembly to deform the wrapper barrel during assembly. During subsequent heat-up and operation the preload is relieved through outer shell expansion. In addition, heat and/or pressure dissolvable-surfaced or spring-surfaced shims or wedges are fit between the wrapper barrel and the tube support plate to further compensate for tube support plate thermal expansion.