Analytical and experimental investigation of natural circulation transients in a model pressurized water reactor

Thesis/Dissertation · Wed Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1986

OSTI ID:6661733

Massoud, M

Natural circulation phenomena in a simulated PWR was investigated experimentally and analytically. The experimental investigation included determination of system characteristics as well as system response to the imposed transient under symmetric and asymmetric operations. System characteristics were used to obtain correlation for heat transfer coefficients in heat exchangers, system flow resistance, and system buoyancy head. Asymmetric transients were imposed to study flow oscillation and possible instability. The analytical investigation encompassed development of mathematical model for single-phase, steady state and transient natural circulation as well as modification of existing model for two phase flow analysis of phenomena such as small break LOCA, high pressure coolant injection, and pump coast down. The developed mathematical model for single-phase analysis was computer coded to simulate the imposed transients. The computer program, entitled Symmetric and Asymmetric Analysis of Single-Phase Flow (SAS), were employed to simulate the imposed transients. It closely emulated the system behavior throughout the transient and subsequent steady state. Modifications for two-phase flow analysis included addition of models for once through steam generator and electric heater rods. Both programs are faster than real time.

• Research Organization: Maryland Univ., College Park (USA)
• OSTI ID: 6661733
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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