A method of calculation of detailed power distribution in fuel assemblies

A method has been developed that effectively estimates the detailed distribution of power generation in the fuel or blanket assemblies in nuclear reactors. A two-dimensional, one-group diffusion model is applied to a region of homogeneous composition enclosed in a contour devoid of concavity viewed from outside. The diffusion equation is reduced to the form of Helmholtz equation, and a non-homogeneous boundary condition of Dirichlet or Neumann type is given on the contour, using neutron fluxes previously obtained in coarse mesh diffusion criticality calculations covering the whole reactor. This boundary value problem in two-dimensional space is made to yield a solution in the form of a potential due to a single or double layer. The method is applied to a hexagonal cell of a fast reactor. The results of calculation are amply accurate in comparison with the corresponding values from the usual fine-mesh diffusion scheme and with much shorter computing time. (auth.)