DescriptionAEC-61-6387 Full scale model of a reactor similar to the SNAP Experimental Reactor which has been successfully test operated as part of an Atomic Energy Commission program, designated Systems for Nuclear Auxiliary Power (SNAP). The model is shown with a portion of the reflector (I) and shielding (J) removed at the right. The full scale model is l4 inches in diameter and l8 inches high. The cylindrical fuel elements (C) are contained in an hexagonal core vessel (E). The inlet pipe (F) and the outlet pipe (G) are for the liquid metal coolant. The two control drums (H), which control the reactor’s power, are segments of the reflector (D) and are operated by the control drive motors (A). The shielding (B) is at top of the core vessel. Objective of the SNAP program is the development of compact sources of auxiliary electric power for space vehicle systems. In an operational SNAP II device, heat from the reactor would be transferred by a liquid sodium coolant to a boiler containing mercury. The mercury would be directed into a miniature turbine. The system would operate on the same principle as ordinary steam-electric generators except that mercury vapor rather than steam would he used to drive the turbine.
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