Vertical tie bolts are then used to reinforce each horizontal plate with their adjacent thermal shields, stabilizing the cylindrical core shroud.
The main function of the core shroud is to direct the current of water flow inside of the reactor pressure vessel.
The core shroud must be built to withstand the pressure of extra water because should it collapse, the fuel assemblies would not be able to cool properly.
[4] Core shrouds crack because the heat from the nuclear reactions combined with the constant flowing water eventually wear out the steel plates.
[2] This is done using an anchor bolt, which is used to attach additional steel plates to the core shroud surface, thereby reinforcing the structure.
Replacement of the core shroud is also an option, but it is not recommended because the cracked plates must be removed manually, leaving the laborers susceptible to radiation.