Sounds reasonable. I would think you also get (maybe) enough contamination from the rods themselves during any melting, to throttle reaction among the pellets. Otherwise, why go to the trouble to build the the rods that way.
I'll keep my fingers crossed and regularly pray just to stay on the safe-side. ;)
I'd appreciate a ping or freepmail if you come to a different conclusion later, or if something unforeseen arises.
Thanks,
But in the event of fuel overheating, it is better if the cladding takes the heat than just the fuel pellets alone.