Program development for mass flowrate distribution optimization in the nuclear power plant. (May 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cai, J.Y.; Zhang, K.; Chen, L.; Xia, B.Y.; Chen, R.H.; Tian, W.X.; Qiu, S.Z.
• Is Part Of: Annals of nuclear energy. Volume 184(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-05
• Subjects: Code development -- Flow rate distribution -- Sub-channel -- Optimization method; Nuclear energy -- Periodicals; Nuclear engineering -- Periodicals; 621.4805
• DOI: 10.1016/j.anucene.2022.109681
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-4549

Abstract

Highlights: A set of mathematical models, including core thermal hydraulic calculation models, is summarized. The program realizes the optimization of core flow distribution under given conditions. The program achieves the estimation of the minimum coolant mass flow rate of the core under given conditions. Abstract: For the compact PWR with cartridge fuel component, the application of flow partition design can significantly flatten the core outlet temperature distribution, improve the outlet subcooling, or reduce the coolant flow, to make more effective use of the coolant and greatly improve the core design performance. However, the three-dimensional power distribution shape of the core will change greatly during its lifetime, and it is difficult to reasonably distribute the flow. In this study, the closed channel core flow partition and water density feedback program is designed by studying the basis of flow partition and designing an optimization method that considers various factors. The optimization search of core flow distribution is carried out to maximize the subcooling degree at the component outlet and flatten the core outlet temperature distribution. In addition, the minimum coolant mass flow and the maximum outlet temperature are estimated under the given core thermal power, three-dimensional distribution and minimum outlet subcooling.