JHR: ADELINE experimental device for irradiation of a PWR fuel sample to test its limits (cladding failure)

The ADELINE loop is a highly complex experimental device that allows the irradiation of fuel elements via an “in-pile” part, which contains the fuel element being tested in a heavily instrumented structure, and a connected “grounded” part, which holds the cooling, control and instrumentation systems.

The ADELINE water loop comprises:

• A bunker containing a loop with the components and instrumentation
• An underwater transfer station for reloading
• A JHR core reflector device exposed to neutron flux, tested at high power and a high ramp rate

Cegelec CEM’s services include:

• ADELINE loop studies:
  • In-pile part (rod, transfer station, underwater connections)
  • Grounded part (bunker and loop fluid system)
  • Instrumentation and control systems, including safety functions
  • N2 ESPN pressure equipment under the RCC-MRX code
• Manufacture and assembly:
  • Procurement (Zircaloy-4 tubes, 316L stainless steel)
  • High-precision assembly of the device (electron-beam welding) and a heavily instrumented pressure tube
  • Qualification of safety instrumentation and control systems
• Factory and on-site testing:
  • System tests (including regulatory ESPN pressure tests) in factory and on site
  • Individual ESPN pressure equipment tests