An introduction to the mechanisms leading to density-wave instabilities in BWRs

This paper presents a review of the physical mechanisms that lead to density-wave instabilities in boiling water reactors (BWRs). The goal of this paper is not to present new information; but ideas that are generally known and accepted in the field of BWR stability. The number of people working in the field of BWR stability has grown over the past years to a significant number; nevertheless, the field is still small enough so that personal communication is an effective way of conveying information. The unfortunate consequence is that this field has a large component of ''art'' as opposed to science.'' This paper attempts to summarize these basic ideas for the reader. (author)