Scaling a nuclear power plant as a complex system

This lecture summarizes and discusses the highlights of the fractional scaling analysis (FSA) and the benefits it may offer NPP technology. FSA is a quantitative methodology developed to: 1. scale time-dependent evolutionary processes involving an aggregate of interacting modules and processes (such as an NPP) and 2. integrate and organize information and data of interest to NPP design and safety analyses. The methodology is based upon three concepts: 1. fractional scaling, 2. hierarchical levels, 3. aggregate configuration. FSA is used to provide syntheses (at various hierarchical levels) and generate quantitative criteria for assessing the effects of various design and operating parameters on thermohydraulic processes in an NPP. The synthesis is carried out at three hierarchical levels: process, component and system. The methodology is illustrated by applying it to various problems at the three hierarchical levels. (author)