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Conference Spotlight
Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
September 8–11, 2025
Atlanta, GA|Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Standards Program
The Standards Committee is responsible for the development and maintenance of voluntary consensus standards that address the design, analysis, and operation of components, systems, and facilities related to the application of nuclear science and technology. Find out What’s New, check out the Standards Store, or Get Involved today!
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The RAIN scale: A good intention that falls short
Radiation protection specialists agree that clear communication of radiation risks remains a vexing challenge that cannot be solved solely by finding new ways to convey technical information.
Earlier this year, an article in Nuclear News described a new radiation risk communication tool, known as the Radiation Index, or, RAIN (“Let it RAIN: A new approach to radiation communication,” NN, Jan. 2025, p. 36). The authors of the article created the RAIN scale to improve radiation risk communication to the general public who are not well-versed in important aspects of radiation exposures, including radiation dose quantities, units, and values; associated health consequences; and the benefits derived from radiation exposures.
C. F. Bullinger, W. J. Kann
Nuclear Science and Engineering | Volume 3 | Number 4 | April 1958 | Pages 379-386
Technical Paper | doi.org/10.13182/NSE58-A25475
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The control rod drive mechanisms installed on the Argonne Experimental Boiling Water Reactor (EBWR) are of an externally operated lead screw and nut type in which the control rod extension shafts are driven through pressure breakdown, collected leakage seals. The mechanisms which are located below the reactor are fabricated from conventional industrial materials, such as carbon steel, brass, cast iron, nylon, etc., and are lubricated with grease. They may be serviced during reactor operation, and are removable from the reactor without the necessity of draining the reactor vessel. This feature has proven to be worthwhile in operation. The mechanism is adaptable to reactors operating at pressures up to 1500 psi and requiring up to a 6-foot control rod stroke. This paper describes the development of the mechanism, the final design and proof-testing program, and some of the particular design difficulties encountered. Some of the other drive types, including electromagnetic jack, hydraulic, and rotary seal rack-and-pinion, considered for EBWR application, are also discussed.