Published June 1980 | Version v1
Report

Experimental and analytical investigation of a PWR natural circulation loop

  • 1. Electric Power Research Inst., Palo Alto, CA

Description

A theoretical and experimental study of a natural circulation loop relevant to PWRs is presented. The analysis is based on a one-dimensional model in which the continuity momentum and energy equations are given and solved. The steady-state and transient flow rates and temperatures are derived. The apparatus consisted of an electrically-heated section and two parallel loops with heat exchangers. Both steady-state and transient experiments were conducted to study the effects of the core flow resistance, the power distribution, and the upper plenum design. Flow oscillations were observed under certain conditions, which were accompained by instabilities and flow reversals. Reasonable agreement (+-30%) is obtained between the analytical and experimental results and with available plant data

Additional details

Publishing Information

Imprint Title
Thermal Reactor Safety
Journal Page Range
p. 153-161.
Report number
CONF-800403--(Vol.1)

Conference

Title
ANS thermal reactor safety meeting.
Dates
8 - 11 Apr 1980.
Place
Knoxville, TN, USA.