Natural circulation and stability performance of BWRs

Objective

The goal of this project is to improve the economics of operating and future plants through improved operational flexibility, enhanced availability, and increased confidence level on the safety margins regarding the stability issues in Boiling Water Reactors. This proposal addresses the stability issues by expanding the basic understanding through well structured testing and analyses; by applying this knowledge via efficient models and validated computer codes to operating reactors and reactor designs; and by developing general guidelines for reactor operators and designers on how to avoid reactor instabilities. Consequently, these guidelines and improved tools will improve the overall plant safety and economics. A consortium of specialists in Europe will use stability data from 4 different European reactors, will perform tests in existing complementary European thermohydraulic test facilities, and will use and validate computer codes.

Programme(s)

• FP5-EAECTP C - Research and training programme (Euratom) in the field of nuclear energy (1998 to 2002)

Topic(s)

• 2.1.2.-1.3.1 - Evolutionary safety concepts

Funding Scheme

Coordinator

Participants (8)