Isolation gates in nuclear storage pond separating walls - using flotation for safe removal and replacement movements

摘要

A nuclear fuel pond isolation gate is constructed to contain chambers =1 of which can be filled with liq. or gas and =1 solely with gas such that its buoyancy can exceed its weight while maintaining its metacentre higher than its centre of gravity. Upper, central and lower portions of the gate may each contain chambers, the highest being gas-filled and the lowest perforated to deceive surrounding gas or liq. The gas and liq. may be respectively lighter and heavier than air and water. Rubber or synthetic cladding may be attached to border the face and bottom of the gate. By suitable adjustment of the gas-to-liquid filling ratio, for removal for servicing or similar purpose, the gate can by this means be floated away from its normal location to a point where its further transport by crane entails negligible risk to the pond-wall cladding or pond content in the event of crane failure. A similar advantage applies to the return journey.