PLUGM: a coupled thermal-hydraulic computer model for freezing melt flow in a channel

Technical Report · Sun Apr 01 04:00:00 EST 1984

OSTI ID:6591714

Pilch, M; Mast, P K

PLUGM models the flow and freezing of molten material in a nonmelting channel. PLUGM is being developed for applications in Sandia's Ex-Vessel Core Retention Materials Assessment Program and in Sandia's LMFBR Transition-Phase Program. PLUGM models time-dependent flow from a reservoir, through a channel and possibly into a catch tank. Three user-specified geometry options enable realistic modeling of melt flow and freezing in tubes, thin slits, and particle beds. Axial variation of relevant channel parameters is possible. Melt flow is driven or hindered by gravity, applied pressure, and capillary pressure. Hydrodynamic losses due to friction, area changes, and flow direction changes are modeled. Also modeled are the competing effects of mass addition to the reservoir, mass drainage into the channel, and slug depletion by film and crust deposition on the channel wall. Cooldown of a superheated melt occurs by material transport down the channel and by convective heat transfer to the channel walls or crust. Axial conduction and volumetric heating within the bulk melt are not modeled. Crust deposition on the channel wall is controlled by the competing effects of convective heat transfer from the bulk melt to the crust surface and the conduction limited removal of heat from the crust into the wall. An external coolant may further enhance this heat removal by limiting the temperature increase in the wall. Sample problems, pertaining to ex-vessel core retention and LMFBR transition phase, illustrate features and capabilities of the code.

• Research Organization: Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (USA); Science Applications, Inc., Albuquerque, NM (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: AC04-76DP00789
• OSTI ID: 6591714
• Report Number(s): NUREG/CR-3190; SAND-82-1580; ON: TI85001945
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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