Benchmark of the Kilowatt Reactor Using Stirling TechnologY (KRUSTY) Component Critical Configurations. (3rd April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stolte, Kristin N.; Favorite, Jeffrey A.; McKenzie, George E.; Cutler, Theresa E.; Hutchinson, Jesson D.; Thompson, Nicholas W.; Sanchez, Rene G.
• Is Part Of: Nuclear technology. Volume 208:Number 4(2022)
• Page Start: 625
• Page End: 643
• Publication Date: 2022-04-03
• Subjects: KRUSTY -- benchmark -- U-8Mo -- BeO -- neutron sensitivity; Nuclear engineering -- Periodicals; Nuclear engineering; Nuclear Physics; Periodicals; Periodicals; 621.48
• DOI: 10.1080/00295450.2021.1945357
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1943-7471

Abstract

Abstract: Kilowatt Reactor Using Stirling TechnologY (KRUSTY) was a prototype for the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Kilopower Program. KRUSTY has a highly enriched uranium–molybdenum alloy (with 7.65 wt% molybdenum) annular core reflected by beryllium oxide with an outer stainless steel shield. Five configurations from the experimental campaign were chosen to be evaluated as benchmark cases. Uncertainties were evaluated in five categories: (1) criticality measurement, (2) mass and density, (3) dimensions, (4) material compositions, and (5) positioning. The largest contribution to the overall uncertainty in each case was from the radial alignment of the movable platen. A simplified model was created to increase computational efficiency, and an average bias of –16 pcm was calculated due to the simplifications. Sample calculations were completed for each case using MCNP6.2, COG, and MC21, all with ENDF/B-VIII.0 nuclear data. For MCNP6.2, the average difference (absolute value) between the calculated and experimental keff for the five configurations was 14 pcm for both the detailed and the simplified models. The keff results from all three codes are within 1σ of the benchmark values. KRUSTY's value as a benchmark is due to its sensitivity to beryllium and molybdenum. For beryllium, KRUSTY adds an 18th benchmark with a total cross-section sensitivity greater than 0.05%/%/(unit lethargy). For molybdenum, KRUSTY adds a 9th benchmark with a total cross-section sensitivity greater than 0.004%/%/(unit lethargy).