LEU-FOREvER project. Development of alternative fuel for the LVR-15 reactor

Among the Research Centre Řež's tasks within the FOREvER project was the collection of information from the operation of the LVR-15 research reactor, specifically data connected with the requirements for the reactor core to preserve the physical parameters, the cooling system and the operational requirements. In parallel, the Centre was involved in the prototype fuel assembly design (in cooperation with Framatome-CERCA and TechnicAtome as te principal fuel designer). The Centre assumed responsibility for the licensing procedure and for obtaining the national regulatory agency's approval of the prototype assembly irradiation experiment. Many thermal hydraulics calculations and neutron calculations proving the safety of the test were performed in this context. A hydraulic test of a dummy fuel assembly identical with the prototype cassette was also planned and carried out. (P.A.)