Neutron kinetics for system thermal-hydraulic codes

For many light water reactor (LWR) calculations, it is necessary to use a multidimensional neutron kinetics model coupled to a thermal-hydraulic model in order to obtain satisfactory results. This need coincides with the fact that in recent years there has been considerable research and development in this field with modelers taking advantage of the increase in computing power that has become available. This progress has now led to coupling the core neutron kinetics and thermal-hydraulics calculation to the nuclear steam supply system thermal-hydraulics. This can now be done with very sophisticated models, and the planning of this coupling and the requisite modeling can take advantage of the experience of many code developers in many countries. This paper us one contribution to the planning process for the next generation of system thermal-hydraulic codes. The paper presents the author', conclusions as to what neutron kinetics model and solution algorithms might be implemented, how to initialize the problem, what thermal-hydraulic boundary conditions are needed by the neutron kinetics, and the modeling for cross sections, power generation, and boron transport. In order to justify recommendations, LWR applications are discussed. 3 refs., 2 tabs