A Transistor Thermocouple Trip Amplifier

The problem of protecting a nuclear reactor against excess temperature operation is reviewed and design requirements applicable to thermocouple trip amplifiers are discussed. Particular mention is made of features which render the unit fail-safe. It is concluded that a unit possessing the necessary fail-to-safety features may be manufactured using transistor techniques. The equipment may be made both reliable and compact and these features, supported by robust construction, fulfil the needs of first-line temperature protection on a nuclear power reactor.