During refueling outages, tasks like removing and reinstalling elongation rods from Reactor Pressure Vessel (RPV) studs can add significant time to maintenance procedures. Preferred Engineering’s RPV Stud Cap eliminates that inefficiency, streamlining the outage.

The RPV Stud Cap allows elongation rods to remain installed inside the stud throughout the maintenance process. Traditionally, rods are removed to prevent damage or allow for inspection, then reinserted after refueling operations. This process extends critical path schedules. With Preferred’s solution, that step is unnecessary.

Machined from high-strength billet aluminum with a hard coat anodized finish, the RPV Stud Cap protects the elongation rod while providing a reliable, passive seal via an integrated O-ring. A recessed center section allows elongation rod clearance, and the square drive makes installation fast and accurate with a torque wrench.

This innovation not only reduces downtime and streamlines maintenance, it also minimizes the risk of damage to sensitive components and simplifies reassembly procedures. Less handling means fewer opportunities for errors, and increased confidence in your maintenance program.

For nuclear operators seeking smart ways to cut outage time, Preferred Engineering’s RPV Stud Cap is a small change with a big impact.