The MELTSPREAD-1 computer code for the analysis of transient spreading in containments

A one-dimensional, multicell, Eulerian finite difference computer code (MELTSPREAD-1) has been developed to provide an improved prediction of the gravity driven spreading and thermal interactions of molten corium flowing over a concrete or steel surface. In this paper, the modeling incorporated into the code is described and the spreading models are benchmarked against a simple ''dam break'' problem as well as water simulant spreading data obtained in a scaled apparatus of the Mk I containment. Results are also presented for a scoping calculation of the spreading behavior and shell thermal response in the full scale Mk I system following vessel meltthrough. 24 refs., 15 figs