A method and apparatus for increasing the reliability of linear drive devices of a nuclear reactor to scram the control elements held in a raised position thereby. Each of the plurality of linear drive devices includes a first type of holding means associated with the drive means of the linear drive device and a second type of holding means distinct and operatively dissimilar from the first type. The system of linear drive devices having both types of holding means are operated in such a manner that the control elements of a portion of the linear drive devices are only held in a raised position by the first holding means and the control elements of the remaining portion of linear drive devices are held in a raised position by only the second type of holding means. Since the two types of holding means are distinct from one another and are operatively dissimilar, the probability of failure of both systems to scram as a result of common mode failure will be minimized. Means may be provided to positively detect disengagement of the first type of holding means and engagement of the second type of holding means for those linear drive devices being operative to hold the control elements in a raised position with the second type of holding means.
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