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U.S. Department of Energy
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Xenon spatial stability in large seed-blanket reactors (LWBR Development Program)

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6747435
A general modal method of analysis for spatial instabilities, which can utilize the multidimensional diffusion programs normally used in reactor design, is developed. The pertinent equations and the methods of their application are discussed and developed with an exposition oriented toward the needs and tools of the nuclear designer. Moderator temperature and fuel temperature (Doppler) feedback effects are included. The methods are practical, and are applicable to any reactor for any nuclide chain. The validity of the analytical methods is documented by: exact one-dimensional studies, comparisons with observed variations in the stability of the Shippingport reactor, and LSBR analog studies in two and three dimensions. The results of extensive LSBR calculations and analog studies are included. The effects of geometrical configuration, power distribution, fuel types and compositions, temperature feedback, higher order transport, and reactor lifetime on stability are examined. Reactor stability for nuclides other than /sup 135/Xe is also discussed. It is found in both digital and analog studies that the moderator and Doppler reactivity coefficients are strong stabilizing influences. All studies quantitatively agree. The LSBR designs would be stable to spatial Xe oscillations throughout life primarily because of the Doppler coefficient and yield advantage inherent to the /sup 232/Th//sup 239/U fuel chain. (NSA 21: 30176)
Research Organization:
Bettis Atomic Power Lab., Pittsburgh, PA (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AT(11-1)-GEN-14
OSTI ID:
6747435
Report Number(s):
WAPD-TM-606
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English