Modeling CANDU header conditions: coupling CFD and thermal hydraulic tools

Nuclear safety analysis relies on computer modeling tools for demonstrating reactor safety and for determination of safe operating parameters such as neutron flux profiles and coolant flow rates. Use of computational fluid dynamics for solving fluid flow behavior in complex components such as CANDU reactor headers has the potential to increase operating margin and, therefore, profitability of a reactor. This paper briefly describes a proposed project involving the coupling of thermal hydraulics tool CATHENA to the CFD tool STAR-CD. Expected challenges are outlined. (author)