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Investigation of pressure transient propagation in pressurized water reactor feedwater lines

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/5452084· OSTI ID:5452084

Results are reported of a study for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to provide a general understanding of pressure transient (water hammer) propagation in pressurized water reactor (PWR) steam generator feedwater piping systems. A typical feedwater network is defined, and pressure transient initiation is discussed, as well as the plausible pulse shapes reported. The analysis is performed by using the computer codes PTA and WHAM. Forces are calculated at elbows and valves by using momentum principles. The effects of pipe yielding, pipe wall friction, and elbow and value losses are included. Pipe yielding and elbow/valve effects are found to be important, and pressure magnitudes and forces are substantially reduced when these effects are included in the analysis. Typical pressure and force time histories are also given.

Research Organization:
California Univ., Livermore (USA). Lawrence Livermore Lab.
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
5452084
Report Number(s):
UCRL-52265
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English