Electromagnetic self-excitation in the liquid-metal fast breeder reactor

The possibility of electromagnetic self-excitation of the fluid flow in liquid-metal fast breeder reactors has been predicted based on gross dimensions without consideration of the details of the flow. The flow in the reactor core cooling ducts is analyzed, and it is shown that self-excitation is not expected. Simplified field and flow patterns are assumed since the results of both experiments and the usual analytical techniques are not expected to be of practical value. (U.S.)