Pellet-cladding mechanical interaction in boiling water reactors

In boiling water reactors (BWRs), the control blade movements are optimised to maximize the energy output from a cycle. The local power transients caused by the blade movements may result in significant pellet-cladding mechanical interaction in the fuel rods close to the control blades. Pellet-cladding mechanical interaction in BWRs is discussed as it relates to the fuel conditioning and maneuvering criteria. The consequence of fabrication defects, such as pellet chipping, is investigated and presented. (authors)