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Optimization of a variable flow allocation scheme in heterogeneous liquid-metal fast breeder reactors

Journal Article · · Nucl. Technol.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6986829
Maximum cladding temperatures in heterogeneous liquid-metal fast breeder reactors (LMFBRs) can be reduced if the flow allocation between core and blanket assemblies is continuously varied during burnup. An analytical model has been developed that optimizes the time variation of the flow such that the reduction in maximum cladding temperatures is maximized. In addition, the concept of continuously varying the flow allocation between core and blanket assemblies has been evaluated for different fuel management schemes in a low sodium void reactivity 3000-MW heterogeneous LMFBR. This evaluation shows that the reduction in maximum cladding midwall temperatures is small ( about 10/sup 0/C) if the reactor is partially refueled at the end of each burnup cycle (cycle length of one year), and this reduction is increased to 20/sup 0/C if a straight burn fuel scheme is used with a core and internal blanket fuel residence time of two years.
Research Organization:
Science Applications, Inc. 1211 W. 22nd Street, Oak Brook, Illinois 60521
OSTI ID:
6986829
Journal Information:
Nucl. Technol.; (United States), Journal Name: Nucl. Technol.; (United States) Vol. 55:3; ISSN NUTYB
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English