A method to reduce the fuel composition heterogeneity effect on the core performance parameters has been studied for the DUPIC fuel which is made of spent pressurized water reactor (PWR) fuels by a dry refabrication process. This study focuses on the reactivity control method which uses either slightly enriched, depleted, or natural uranium to minimize the cost rise effect on the manufacturing of DUPIC fuel, when adjusting the excess reactivity control by slightly enriched and depleted uranium, reactivity control by natural uranium for high reactivity spent PWRfuels, and reactivity control by natural uranium for linear reactivity spent PWRfuels. The results of this study have shown that the reactivity control by slightly enriched and depleted uranium, all the spent PWR ...
An inspection system was developed for spent fuel assemblies of PWR so that to check their general state, perform dimensional control and measure oxide layer thickness of peripheral rods. (orig./HP)
KSC-1 (KAERI Shipping Cask-1) was designed and manufactured with a pure domestic technology in 1985 in order to transport a PWR spent fuel assembly from nuclear power plant to PIEF (Post-Irradiation Examination Facility) of KAERI. Since the first transportation of the fuel assembly from Kori-1 NPP was carried out by the cask in 1987, 19 shipments for the PWR spent fuels have been done successfully by now. Maximum discharge burnup of PWR in Korea has been extended from the late 1990s in order to reduce the cost of power generation. From this cause, allowable design values of the initial enrichment and the cooling time for the cask have been changed three times: year 2003, 2007 and 2010. Radiation shielding and criticality of KSC-1 were analyzed for all the PWRfuel type irradiated in Korea NPP to renew the design approval
A sensitivity study has been done to determine the composition of DUPIC fuel from the viewpoint of neutronics fuel design. The spent PWRfuel compositions were generated and fissile contents adjusted by blending fresh uranium after mixing two spent PWRfuel assemblies. The {sup 239}Pu and {sup 235}U enrichments of DUPIC fuel were adjusted by controlling the amount of fresh uranium feed and the ratio of slightly enriched and depleted uranium in the feed uranium. Based on the material balance calculation, it is recommended that DUPIC fuel composition be such that spent PWRfuel utilization is more than 90%. A sensitivity study on the temperature reactivity coefficient of DUPIC fuel and shown that it is desirable to increase the {sup 239}Pu and {sup 235}U ...
MOX fuel has been one of the mature nuclear fuels which can be used in light water nuclear power plant now. The development status in this domain in foreign countries, the major influence of MOX fuel on reactor performance and the countermeasures are introduced in this paper. The application of MOX fuel in China's PWR is discussed in the end. (authors)
This document presents the integrated reactors concepts by a presentation of four reactors: PIUS, SIR, IRIS and CAREM. The core conception, the operating, the safety, the economical aspects and the possible users are detailed. From the performance of the classical integrated PWR, the necessity of new innovative fuels utilization, the research of a simplified design to make easier the safety and the KWh cost decrease, a new integrated reactor is presented: SCAR 600. (A.L.B.)
The coolant activity analysis to obtain the information about the fuel failure has been studied long before. And several codes have been developed to estimate the number of fuel failures through evaluating volatile and inert fission products release in coolant from the defective fuel. These codes use a fission product diffusion model coupled with a mass balance in the gap and coolant. But each code has a different model to assess fuel failure. In order to develop the model to estimate the number of fuel failures we analysis well-known code's models such as CHIRON, CADE, IODYNE, and CAAP and compare accuracy through Korean PWR activity data
The research and development for the first year of the project are performed through specialization of researchers, information from aborad and international cooperation, securement of advanced nuclear technology, development and installation of test equipment, application of external man-power, establishment of advanced test techniques, and certified test method. 1. Absolute efficiency measurement examination technology development of gamma scanning system 2. Sample preparation technology development of SEM and EPMA for micro-structural observation and chemical composition analysis 3. Irradiated high burn-up nuclear fuel transportation and test for PWR 4. Development of hot cell examination techniques and equipment 5. Acquirement of KOLAS system. In addition to the project, the following activities are carried out as follows; - PIE of Hanaro fuel(KH99H-001) - PIE of U-Mo advanced nuclear fuel ...
In the framework of the plutonium production optimization in the PWR, many solutions are studied to decrease or recycle the plutonium of the nuclear fuels. Among these solutions, the inert matrix fuels (IMF) are proposed in this thesis. In seven chapters the author presents, the context and the state of the art, the different matrix, the calculi codes such as APOLLO2 or TRIPOLI4 needed to the neutronic analysis, the different fuel assemblies (CERMET UO{sub 2}, MOX, PuO{sub 2} and PuO{sub 2}-UO{sub 2}), the efficiency of the control rods in the case of the PWR, the cross sections problem, preliminary reflexions on critical accidents. (A.L.B.)
A algorithm was developed to determine the characteristic parameters of PWR spent fuel, such as burnup, cooling time and initial enrichment of {sup 235}U by use of gamma-ray activity ratios of {sup 134}Cs/{sup 137}Cs, {sup 154}Eu/{sup 137}Cs and {sup 106}Ru/{sup 137}Cs from the high resolution gamma-ray spectroscopy and ORIGEN-S calculations. For the verification of the method developed, gamma-ray measurements of Kori-1 and Kori-2 nuclear fuel rods were carried out using HPGe gamma ray scanning system. As a results, it is revealed that the measured values are in a good agreement with the operator declared values within the about {+-} 5% errors. Besides, the under-water burnup measuring device has been designed to measure the gamma-ray from the PWR spent fuel assembly. This device will be set up in the pool of Post-Irradiation Examination Facility(PIEF), and used in determination of ...
Characteristic study for the recycled fuel cycle, MOX fuel and Th-MOX fuel in PWR was performed with the comparison of 4 w/o UO2 fuel. It was assumed that there are no limit in reprocessing and no technical difficulty in recycling of spent fuel. The effect of recycling, plutonium composition, conversion ratio, MTC, FTC was investigated to each cycle. (Th+Pu)O_2 recycle option was advantageous because the loading amount of plutonium could be reduced from 8.3 w/o at once-through cycle to 3.5 w/o. (Th+Pu)O_2 recycled fuel was known to be higher Pu-239 consumption rate and more Pu-240(242) production rate. The (Th+U)O2 and (U+Pu)O2 once-through fuel cycle revealed high conversion ratio. The (U+Pu)O_2 recycled fuel cycle, however, showed low conversion ratio. Safety of each cycle was ensured by negative ...
This study describes the mechanical compatibility of the direct use of spent pressurized water reactor (PWR) fuel in Canada deuterium uranium (CANDU) reactors (DUPIC) fuel, when it is loaded into a CANDU reactor. The mechanical compatibility can be assessed for the fuel management, primary heat transport system, fuel channel, and the fuel handling system in the reactor core by both the experimental and analytic methods. Because the physical dimensions of the DUPIC fuel bundle adopt the CANDU flexible (CANFLEX) fuel bundle design which has already been demonstrated for a commercial use in CANDU reactors, the experimental compatibility analyses focused on the generation of material property data and the irradiation tests of the DUPIC fuel, which are used for the computational analysis. The intermediate ...
Experiments with fresh PWRfuel assemblies were performed to assess the {sup 252}Cf-source-driven frequency analysis method for measuring the subcriticality of spent fuel. The measurements at the Babcox and Wilcox Critical Experiments Facility mocked up between 17x17 fuel pins (single assembly) and a full array of 4961 fuel pins (about 17 fuel assemblies) in borated water with a fixed B concentration. For the full array, the B content of the water was varied from 1511 at delayed criticality to 4303 ppM. Measurements were done for various source-detector-fuel pin configurations; they showed high sensitivity of frequency analysis parameters to B content and fissile mass. Parameters such as auto and cross power spectral densities can be calculated directly by a more general model of the Monte Carlo code (MCNP-DSP). Calculation-measurement ...
High resolution Monte-Carlo simulations show that the neutron spectrum, fuel burnup and fuel temperature feedback effect of a PWR core loaded with Thoria-based fuel (Th/Pu-O_2) do not significantly differ from the MOX fuelled one due to the similar neutronic characteristics of both fertile materials (Th-232, U-238). The core physics of this fuel variant is characterized by an enhanced moderator/void temperature coefficient (by factor 2.4) and high incineration rate for Pu (approx. 60 %). A PWR core loaded with the Molybdenum-based inert matrix fuel (IMF) - in contrast to MOX-, shows a harder spectrum, resulting in small temperature coefficients of reactivity and particularly in a higher fuel depletion rate as well as an enhanced TRU reduction performance. The incineration of Pu amounts to 46 % resulting, in turn, in ...
The applicability of the thermal response of an electrically heated simulated rod mostly used in loss-of-coolant-accident (LOCA) experiments to that of a nuclear fuel rod is a concern for the safety evaluation of a reactor. The present analysis describes the characteristics of the thermal response for both electrically heated and nuclear fuel rods during typical reflood conditions for a PWR-LOCA. A model describing the radial temperature field in the rod is developed based on the scheme in HETRAP code by Malang and incorporated into a reflood analysis code, REFLA for that purpose. The calculations applied to the existing reflood tests gave good agreement with experiments, showing the validity of the present model. The analysis has shown that the nuclear fuel rod tends to give a lower clad temperature and a sooner quench time than the electrically heated rod in a typical reflood condition, due to the ...
This study presents results from Monte Carlo radiation transport calculations aimed at characterizing a novel methodology being developed to detect partial defects in Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) spent fuel assemblies (SFAs). The methodology uses a combination of measured neutron and gamma fields inside a spent fuel assembly in an in-situ condition where no movement of the fuel assembly is required. Previous studies performed on single isolated assemblies resulted in a unique base signature that would change when some of the fuel in the assembly is replaced with dummy fuel. These studies indicate that this signature is still valid in the in-situ condition enhancing the prospect of building a practical tool, Partial Defect Detector (PDET), which can be used in the field for partial defect detection.
The identification, and hence origin determination, of unknown nuclear material that might be found undeclared away from designated locations in the nuclear fuel cycle, is an important task in the frame of nuclear forensics. Material with forensic importance can be found at the microscopic level as particles in environmental samples indicating possible clandestine production of fissile material, and as bulky samples in the case of illicit trafficking of nuclear material. The objective of this work is to present, at a theoretical level, an isotopic finger-printing methodology which would determine the origin of unknown nuclear material with forensic importance. This is demonstrated for the case when the unknown nuclear material is spent nuclear fuel. The methodology is based on multivariate statistics, such as cluster and factor analysis, complemented by spent fuel isotopic composition simulations using the zero-dimensional ...
Continued public acceptance of commercial nuclear power is contingent to a large degree on the US Department of Energy (DOE) establishing an integrated waste management system for spent nuclear fuel. As part of the from-reactor transportation segment of this system, the B W Fuel Company (BWFC) is under contract to the DOE to develop a spent-fuel cask that is compatible with both rail and barge modes of transportation. Innovative design approaches were the keys to achieving a cask design that maximizes payload capacity and cask performance. The result is the BR-100, a 100-ton rail/barge cask with a capacity of 21 PWR or 52 BWR ten-year cooled, intact fuel assemblies. 3 figs.
We obtained the ratios of {sup 134}Cs/{sup 137}Cs and {sup 154}Eu/{sup 137}Cs in spent PWRfuels with gamma scanning equipment of irradiated material examination facility. The fuel segments, of which the burn-up is about 40 GWD/MTU and its cooling time is 8.4 years, are prepared in Post Irradiated Examination Facility and transported to IMEF. By considering of multi-peaks of {sup 134}Cs and {sup 154}Eu, we obtained the relative efficiency of the gamma scanning system as a function of energy. And finally we obtained the number ratios of radioactive nuclides in 72 fuel pellets, radioactive {sup 134}Cs/{sup 137}Cs and {sup 154}Eu/{sup 137}Cs. (author). 4 refs., 27 tabs., 28 figs.
We obtained the ratios of "1"3"4Cs/"1"3"7Cs and "1"5"4Eu/"1"3"7Cs in spent PWRfuels with gamma scanning equipment of irradiated material examination facility. The fuel segments, of which the burn-up is about 40 GWD/MTU and its cooling time is 8.4 years, are prepared in Post Irradiated Examination Facility and transported to IMEF. By considering of multi-peaks of "1"3"4Cs and "1"5"4Eu, we obtained the relative efficiency of the gamma scanning system as a function of energy. And finally we obtained the number ratios of radioactive nuclides in 72 fuel pellets, radioactive "1"3"4Cs/"1"3"7Cs and "1"5"4Eu/"1"3"7Cs. (author). 4 refs., 27 tabs., 28 figs.
Economic analysis was performed at KAERI with the assistance of US DOE to compare single reactor fuel cycle costs for a once-through option and a thermal recycle option to operate 1 GWe of a PWR plant for its lifetime. A reference fuel cycle cost was first calculated for each option with best estimated reference input data. Then a sensitivity analysis was performed changing each single value of such fuel cycle component costs as yellow cake price, enrichment charges, spent fuel storage cost, reprocessing cost, spent fuel disposal cost and reprocessing waste disposal cost. Savings due to thermal recycle in requirements of uranium, conversion, and enrichment were examined using formulas suggested by US DOE, while MOX fabrication penalty was accounted for. As a result of the reference fuel cycle cost analysis, it is calculated that the thermal ...
Axial offset anomaly (AOA) is caused by the deposition of crud on the fuel cladding of a PWR. When significant levels of crud build up on the cladding, boron can accumulate in the pores of the crud as a concentrated solution or solid phase, and cause the flux depression. Numerous studies have been conducted on the primary water chemistry to reduce the amount of crud in the primary circuit to avoid radioactivity buildup and unexpected power transition in the plant. However, experiments on the crud are restricted in the laboratory because the crud is a highly radioactive material. The objective of this study is to develop a test method for simulating the deposition of crud in a nuclear power plant
This study report presents the shutdown chemistry of PWR primary system to reduce and remove the radioactive corrosion products which were deposited on the nuclear fuel rods surface and the outside of core like steam generator channel head, RCS pipings etc. The major research results are the follows ; the deposition radioactive mechanism of corrosion products, the radiochemical composition, the condition of coolant chemistry to promote the dissolution of radioactive cobalt and nickel ferrite, the control method of dissolved hydrogen concentration in the coolant by the mechanical and chemical methods. The another part of study is to investigate the removal characteristics of corrosion product ions and particles by the demineralization system to suggest the method which the system could be operate effectively in shut-down purification period. (author). 19 refs., 25 figs., 48 tabs.
The desire to increase uranium utilization and to minimize spent fuel storage requirements provides an incentive to extend the average fuel rod discharge burnup to about 70,000MWd/MTU. For these higher burnups data are needed to determine if waterside corrosion of the cladding may be a life-limiting feature of fuel rod design. It is apparent that many factors can influence waterside corrosion, and these need to be better understood in order to minimize corrosion at these higher target burnups. The objective of this report is to review published data relevant to the corrosion of Zircaloy under PWR operating conditions. (author). 100 refs., 4 tabs., 21 figs.
We provide a detailed overview of an ongoing, multinational test program that is developing aerosol data for some spent fuel sabotage scenarios on spent fuel transport and storage casks. Experiments are being performed to quantify the aerosolized materials plus volatilized fission products generated from actual spent fuel and surrogate material test rods, due to impact by a high energy density device, HEDD. The program participants in the U.S. plus Germany, France, and the U.K., part of the international Working Group for Sabotage Concerns of Transport and Storage Casks, WGSTSC have strongly supported and coordinated this research program. Sandia National Laboratories, SNL, has the lead role for conducting this research program; test program support is provided by both the U.S. Department of Energy and Nuclear Regulatory Commission. WGSTSC partners need this research to better understand potential radiological impacts from ...
The {sup 252}Cf-source-driven frequency analysis method can be used for measuring the subcritical neutron multiplication factor of arrays of LWR fuel and as little as a single PWRfuel assembly. These measurements can be used to verify the criticality safety margins of spent LWR fuel configurations and thus could be a means of obtaining the information to justify burnup credit for spent LWR transportation/storage casks. In addition, the data can be used to validate calculational methods for criticality safety. These measurements provide parameters that have a higher sensitivity to changes in fissile mass than neutron multiplication factor and thus serve as a better test of calculational methods. The analysis have also shown that measurement of the cross power spectral density (CPSD) between detectors on one side of a single fuel assembly and an internal or external {sup 252}Cf ...
Scenarios are developed for spent fuel that is taken out of the nuclear reactor and stored for 20 years before reprocessing, and three storage techniques which use a water pool, dry cask or vault are compared with respect to their costs. The storage price (storage cost per kilogram of spent fuel), which is employed as the economic index, is calculated on the assumption that all the charge is paid when the spent fuel is brought in the storage facilities. Four scenarios are assumed for spent PWR and BWR fuels to be stored in at-reactor (AT) or away-from-reactor (AFR) facilities. The capital costs cover the buildings of the storage facilities, equipment, decommissioning, casks for transportation and storage (for cask storage) and casks for transportation (for water pool or vault storage). Costs for operation and maintenance of the facilities are also considered in evaluating these ...
Scenarios are developed for spent fuel that is taken out of the nuclear reactor and stored for 20 years before reprocessing, and three storage techniques which use a water pool, dry cask or vault are compared with respect to their costs. The storage price (storage cost per kilogram of spent fuel), which is employed as the economic index, is calculated on the assumption that all the charge is paid when the spent fuel is brought in the storage facilities. Four scenarios are assumed for spent PWR and BWR fuels to be stored in at-reactor (AT) or away-from-reactor (AFR) facilities. The capital costs cover the buildings of the storage facilities, equipment, decommissioning, casks for transportation and storage (for cask storage) and casks for transportation (for water pool or vault storage). Costs for operation and maintenance of the facilities are also considered in evaluating these ...
In Sweden, spent nuclear fuel will be encapsulated and placed in a deep geological repository. In this procedure, reliable and accurate spent fuel data such as discharge burnup, cooling time and residual heat must be available. The gamma scanning method was proposed in earlier work as a fast and reliable method for the experimental determination of such spent fuel data. This thesis is focused on the recent achievements in the development of a pilot gamma scanning system and its application in measuring spent fuel residual heat. The achievements include the development of dedicated spectroscopic data-acquisition and analysis software and the use of a specially designed calorimeter for calibrating the gamma scanning system. The pilot system is described, including an evaluation of the performance of the spectrum analysis software. Also described are the gamma-scanning measurements on 31 spent ...
In Sweden, spent nuclear fuel will be encapsulated and placed in a deep geological repository. In this procedure, reliable and accurate spent fuel data such as discharge burnup, cooling time and residual heat must be available. The gamma scanning method was proposed in earlier work as a fast and reliable method for the experimental determination of such spent fuel data. This thesis is focused on the recent achievements in the development of a pilot gamma scanning system and its application in measuring spent fuel residual heat. The achievements include the development of dedicated spectroscopic data-acquisition and analysis software and the use of a specially designed calorimeter for calibrating the gamma scanning system. The pilot system is described, including an evaluation of the performance of the spectrum analysis software. Also described are the gamma-scanning measurements on 31 spent ...
Fuel irradiation leads to a swelling resulting from the formation of gaseous (Kr, Xe) or solid fission products which are found either in solution or as solid inclusions in the matrix. This phenomena has to be evaluated to be taken into account in fuel cladding Interaction. Fuel swelling was studied as a function of burn up by measuring the corresponding cell constant evolution by X-Ray diffraction. This study was realized on Mixed Oxide Fuels (MOX) irradiated in a Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) at different burn-up for 3 initial Pu contents. Lattice parameter evolutions were followed as a function of burn-up for the irradiated fuel with and without an annealing thermal treatment. These experimental evolutions are compared to the theoretical evolutions calculated from the hard sphere model, using the fission product concentrations determined by the APPOLO ...
The booklet presents general information and practical hints for the task of acquiring and evaluating the data describing investments and other expenditure and activities for pollution abatement measures taken by electric utilities. The information is intended as an aid for establishing standard criteria for assignment and evaluation, and for comparison and classification of pollution abatement measures. As a line of orientation, a catalogue of pollution control measures is given, arranged into the following sections: Fossil-fueled power plants; nuclear power plants (BWR and PWR); hydroelectric power plants; power transmission and distribution. (HSCH)
Corrosion is increasingly becoming an important factor reducing the reliability of many nuclear power plant components. The significance is evaluated of corrosion phenomena with respect to the reliability of primary circuit components of LWR's, viz., the reactor pressure vessel, primary piping, steam generator, and fuel elements. The mechanism of corrosion phenomena is explained and methods of minimizing their effects are presented. An analysis is made of the needs to solve the corrosion problems of nuclear power plants from the point of view of Czechoslovak producers and research and development activities. International cooperation is reviewed and main problems are formulated on which the solution of corrosion problems of structural materials used in WWER type nuclear power plants should be focussed. (author).
One of the alternative ideas to solve the spent fuel issues, the partitioning and transmutation (P and T) technology has been developed for decades. Moreover, the concept of LILW production from P and T are proposed by Bowman. A PEACER (Proliferationresistant, Environmental-friendly Accident-tolerant, Continuable and Economical Reactor), based on pyrochemical process and Pb-Bi coolant transmutation reactor, has been conceptually designed to be able to convert all PWR spent fuel into low and intermediate level waste for near-surface disposal. In this study, the acceptance criteria for near-surface disposal facility is derived by the methodology for establishment of acceptance criteria. Then acceptable TRU decontamination factor (DF) and LLFP removal efficiency in order to meet acceptance criteria is evaluated.
One of the alternative ideas to solve the spent fuel issues, the partitioning and transmutation (P and T) technology has been developed for decades. Moreover, the concept of LILW production from P and T are proposed by Bowman. A PEACER (Proliferationresistant, Environmental-friendly Accident-tolerant, Continuable and Economical Reactor), based on pyrochemical process and Pb-Bi coolant transmutation reactor, has been conceptually designed to be able to convert all PWR spent fuel into low and intermediate level waste for near-surface disposal. In this study, the acceptance criteria for near-surface disposal facility is derived by the methodology for establishment of acceptance criteria. Then acceptable TRU decontamination factor (DF) and LLFP removal efficiency in order to meet acceptance criteria is evaluated
A model is described for simulating thermal hydraulic and chemical conditions within fuel crud deposits. Heat transfer takes place by wick boiling in which water flows through the porous deposit and evaporates into steam at the surface of chimneys. The transport and chemistry of dissolved species within the deposit is also modelled. This chemistry includes the equilibrium chemistry of Li/boric acid species, the equilibrium chemistry of Fe/Ni species and the radiolysis chemistry of water. The unique feature of this model is that the chemistry is coupled to the thermal hydraulics via the increase in the saturation temperature with the concentration of dissolved species. This has a profound effect on evaporative heat transfer within thick deposits, leading to conditions that explain the precipitation of LiBO{sub 2} and the possible formation of bonaccordite. The model helps understand several crud scrape observations, including why AOA is observed to occur for a crud ...
The Fixed Bed Nuclear Reactor (FBNR) is a small 40 MWe reactor based on the Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) technology. FBNR is an integrated primary circuit and simple in design. It has the characteristics of being small, modular, proliferation resistant, inherently safe and passively cooled reactor with reduced adverse environmental impact. It utilizes the fuel designed for high temperature reactors operating in a relatively low temperature of PWR environment The 15 mm diameter spherical fuel elements are made of TRISO type microspheres embedded in graphite and cladded by SiC. The coolant flow transfers them from the fuel chamber into the core and become fixed forming a suspended core. Any accident signal will cut off the power to the coolant pump causing a stop in the flow. This results in making the fuel elements fall out of the reactor core by the force of ...
Further to a cost-benefit analysis of the various medium-term and long-term and H.L.W. storage possibilities, C.E.A. (French Atomic Energy Commission) and S.G.N. decided to develop an original dry storage process with natural convection cooling that offers many advantages: cut in the total investment and operating costs; high operating safety; natural convection cooling; existence of two containment barriers irrespective of the assumed clad conditions; flexible, modular and compact design. The process was first implemented in the so-called CASCAD Cadarache Facility (vault-type facility) constructed in Cadarache mainly to store fuel from Brennilis heavy water reactor. For the purpose, a large program was set up to develop and validate computer codes, in particular with the use of mockups. On the request of many clients, and owing to the outstanding operating results of the CASCAD Cadarache Facility, SGN was brought to adapt the process to the storage of other types ...
The first Russian reprocessing facility, known as RT-1 (located at PA-Mayak in Ural region) was started on the radiochemical plant base in 1977. Nowadays RT-1 is the sole operating reprocessing plant in Russia. The main features of RT-1 is its broad spectrum of reprocessing spent nuclear fuels (SNF). The following spent fuel types are reprocessed: -) SNF from PWR reactors (WWER-440) and FB reactor (BN-600); -) SNF of transport ship reactors; -) production reactors SNF; -) research reactor spent nuclear fuel. The world-known technological processes are used at RT-1, but there are the following distinctive features. First, the universality of the three technological lines which allows not only the reprocessing of various SNF kinds, but also to implement the combined reprocessing of some types of them. Secondly, extraction of neptunium during SNF reprocessing which is used to implement its separate storage ...
The first Russian reprocessing facility, known as RT-1 (located at PA-Mayak in Ural region) was started on the radiochemical plant base in 1977. Nowadays RT-1 is the sole operating reprocessing plant in Russia. The main features of RT-1 is its broad spectrum of reprocessing spent nuclear fuels (SNF). The following spent fuel types are reprocessed: -) SNF from PWR reactors (WWER-440) and FB reactor (BN-600); -) SNF of transport ship reactors; -) production reactors SNF; -) research reactor spent nuclear fuel. The world-known technological processes are used at RT-1, but there are the following distinctive features. First, the universality of the three technological lines which allows not only the reprocessing of various SNF kinds, but also to implement the combined reprocessing of some types of them. Secondly, extraction of neptunium during SNF reprocessing which is used to implement its separate storage ...
Nuclear fuel vendors in Japan are now studying reprocessed uranium (RepU) fuel in order to prepare for full scale utilization in the future. Separate studies are made for PWR and BWR fuel. The study consists of 2 phrases. The purposes of phase-1 are to understand various RepU characteristics in the fuel fabrication process, to analyze the core characteristics by loading RepU assemblies, to solve the problems clarified in the study, and to collect basic data for licensing. In phase-2, the effects of impurities on the fabrication process will be evaluated, and the safety of RepU fuel manufacturing will be confirmed with a RepU fuel fabrication campaign in 1990. The neutronic data will be collected after insertion into power reactors, and the data will be used to verify plant safety for full utilization of RepU in the future. This paper ...
The detection efficiency of gamma scanning system in irradiated materials examination facility has been measured. Gamma-ray sources used in this experiment are Cs-Co standard sources a PWR spent fuel rod in which {sup 134}Cs and {sup 154}Eu peaks are clearly identified in the energy region of 500 to 1,600 keV. The distance between source and detector is about 1.6 m. A slit type collimator with 3 mm-width window and 30 mm-thick lead block are installed between source and detector. The detector is a HPGe detector. This equipment is mainly used in gamma scanning of irradiated nuclear fuel. The measured detection efficiency seems to be 1.89 x 10{sup -6} % for 1 MeV gamma-ray. With these results the activities of unknown sources could be measured. This results are expected to be used in the measurement of the absolute distribution of gamma emitting nuclides in nuclear fuel.
This paper describes the construction of PWR horizontal steam generator in Soviet Union, the water chemistry treatment for secondary side, the design of steam separator, the test of heat transfer characteristics and operation. (author).
This standard provides requirements and guidelines for installation, inspection and testing activities that assure the quality of important mechanical parts of a nuclear power plant not covered by the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section III, during construction. These parts include those mechanical systems and components whose satisfactory performance is required: for the plant to operate reliably; to prevent accidents that could cause undue risk to the health and safety of the public; or to mitigate the consequences of such accidents if they were to occur. The requirements of this standard deal with the protection and control necessary to assure that the requisite quality of those important parts of the plant are preserved from the time items are removed from storage or receiving until they are incorporated into the plant up to but not including fuel loading for PWR plants and the completion of cold functional testing for BWR and ...
The aim of the risk assessment consists of a comparative security evaluation for the SNR-300 and the PWR Biblis B. The failure analysis focusses on the reactor core; in addition, possible fission product release from the spent fuel pits is examined. By reliability analyses, the frequency of events leading to incidents is determined together with the probability of core destruction. In the accident analysis, the kind and frequency of failure of the activity barriers, i.e., primary system (reactorvessel) and inner and outer containment are investigated for the various incident sequences. The radionuclide release into the environment is classified into five different release categories. Besides internal failures, external causes (especially earthquakes and plane crashes) are considered under the aspect of their risk contribution. (RF).
A pyrochemical process has been introduced and utilized so that the transmutation of spent PWRfuel in PEACER can produce mainly low and intermediate level waste for near surface disposal. Major radioactive nuclides from PEACER pyroprocessing are composed of TRU and LLFP. In this study, the requirement for the final waste from PEACER is evaluated based on the methodology for establishment of waste acceptance criteria. Also, sensitivity analysis for several input parameters is conducted in order to determine acceptable decontamination factor (DF) and LLFP removal efficiency and to find out input parameter that extremely have an effect on DF. As a result of the study, TRU DF and LLFP removal efficiency have to be achieved more than 1.0E+04 - 1.0E+05 and 96%, respectively. (author)
Data and functions of the cell burnup calculation of the SRAC system were revised to improve mainly the accuracy of the burnup calculation of high conversion light water reactors (HCLWRs). New burnup chain models were developed in order to treat fission products (FPs) and actinide nuclides in detail. Group cross section library, SRACLIB-JENDL2, was generated based on JENDL-2 nuclear data file. In generating this library, emphasis was placed on FPs and actinides. Also revised were the data such as the average energy release per fission for various actinides. These improved data were verified by performing the burnup analysis of PWR spent fuels. Some new functions were added to the SRAC system for the convenience to yield macroscopic cross sections used in the core burnup process. (author).
Nuclear power plants of 20 units of in Korea are generating about 700 MTU of spent fuels annually. The inventory of spent fuels in Korea were estimated about 10,087.07 MTU at end of 2008, and the storage space of spent fuels won't be available any more at 2016 due to the saturation of the spent fuel pools in the plants. In addition, in order to reduce carbon emission and correspond to the enormous electricity demand in Korea, 8 units of nuclear power plants are under construction and several more plants are under planning. The 100,000 MTU of spent fuel inventory are expected by the year of 2095 in Korea. Therefore, short term and long term of spent fuel management plans are under discussion and implementation in Korea. As a short term of spent fuel management strategy for the target year of 2016, central or local spent ...
The feasibility was evaluated using MCNP-DSP, an analog Monte Carlo transport cod to simulate source-driven measurements. Models of an isolated Westinghouse 17x17 PWRfuel assembly in a 1500-ppM borated water storage pool were used. In the models, the fuel burnup profile was represented using seven axial burnup zones, each with isotopics estimated by the PDQ code. Four different fuel assemblies with average burnups from fresh to 32 GWd/MTU were modeled and analyzed. Analysis of the fuel assemblies was simulated by inducing fission in the fuel using a {sup 252}Cf source adjacent to the assembly and correlating source fissions with the response of a bank of {sup 3}He detectors adjacent to the assembly opposite the source. This analysis was performed at 7 different axial positions on each of the 4 assemblies, and the source-detector cross-spectrum signature was ...
The recent announcement that the public inquiry into the CEGB's plans to build a PWR at Sizewell will begin in January 1983 and the statement which followed from the task force that was set up in July 1981 to consider the future of the PWR programme in the UK, are considered. The relevant time scales, costs and safety, in particular the cost incurred due to the added safety features for the British PWR, are discussed. The effect of political aspects on the future of the PWR in Britain is considered.
Individual monitoring of personal exposure to inhalation of uranium oxides throughout the manufacture of fuel for pressurized water reactor (PWR) includes lung gamma-spectrometry, fecal analysis and urine analysis. Examination of the results shows the following: internal exposure is the consequence of repeated intake incidents as revealed by early peaks of urinary and particularly fecal elimination; a shift is often observed with the results of aerosol concentration measured through air collectors; the measured variations of uranium lung incorporations are relatively fast (apparent mean period 165 d). Correct evaluation of the effective dose equivalent from inhalation requires further information concerning the aerosol size distribution at work stations, the physico-chemical characteristics of the product leading to an estimate of its actual biological solubility, and the measurement of the fraction of aerosol liable to intake with an ...
The main purpose of this study is to develop a thermal hydraulic auditing code for the CANDU reactor, modifying the model of existing PWR auditing tool , i.e. RELAP5/MOD3. This scope of project is a fourth step of the whole project, applying the RELAP5/MOD3/CANDU+ version for the real CANDU plant LOCA Analysis and D2O leakage incident. There are three main models under investigation, i.e. Moody critical flow model, flow regime model of horizontal CANDU bundle, and fuel element heatup model when the stratification occurs, especially when CANDU LOCA is tested. Also, for Wolsung unit 1 D2O leakage incident analysis, the plant behavior is predicted with the newly developed version for the first 1000 seconds after onset of the incident, with the main interest aiming for system pressure, level control system, and thermal hydraulic transient behavior of the secondary system. The model applied for this particular application includes heat transfer ...
This report presents the results of analysis of selected data from the NRU test series dealing with heatup and reflood heat transfer during postulated PWR LOCA conditions. These tests used nuclear fuel rods and some considered clad ballooning and rupture. Also included was an electrically-heated rod ballooning test, REBEKA-6. The COBRA-TF computer program, renamed PYTHONS, was modified and used for the analytical tool. Modifications included provisions for fuel rod gas flow and pressure, creep deformation and rupture, channel blockage, and blockage heat transfer. Calculated clad temperatures for NRU unpressurized rods show quite good agreement with experimental data. The calculated amount and axial extent of clad ballooning for pressurized rods agrees reasonably well with post-test examinations of the NRU bundles. Time to failure was underpredicted in the MT-3 test as a result of the high strength of NRU clad material which ...
Mitsubishi is now developing a new Pressurized water reactor (PWR), the Mitsubishi simplified PWR (MS-PWR), which has the innovative features of hybrid safety systems (an optimum combination of passive and active systems) and cooling by horizontal steam generators. In order to confirm the feasibility of the Mitsubishi hybrid safety system, various kinds of safety analyses are performed for loss-of-coolant accident events. In parallel to these safety analysis efforts, the following thermal-hydraulic tests are to be performed: (1) thermal-hydraulic test of a horizontal steam generator; (2) integrated thermal-hydraulic test using a simulation loop for the innovative MS-PWR (SLIM).
The saturation of South Korea's at-reactor (AR) spent fuel storage pools will create a necessity for additional spent fuel storage capacity. Because the South Korean government has the plan to increase the number of nuclear power plants from 20 units (end of 2005) to 27 units by 2015, the increase of spent nuclear fuel generation will be accelerated. Because there is no clear national plan for spent nuclear fuel storage and disposal, the utility company (Korea Hydraulic Nuclear Power company) is planning to construct a spent fuel storage facility with 11 000 tHM capacity for Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR). This study is intended to predict the maximum allowable periods when the storage facility will be fully occupied with respect to the already fixed re-racking plan of spent fuel storage pools and construction of new nuclear power plants. ...
The load-following operation of nuclear power plants will become inevitable due to the increased nuclear share in the total electricity generation. As a groundwork for the load-following capability of the Korean next generation PWRs, the state-of-the-art has been reviewed. The core control principles and methods are the main subject in this review as well as the impact of load-following operations on the fuel performance and on the mechanical integrity of components. To begin with, it was described what the load-following operation is and in what view point the technology should be reviewed. Afterwards the load-following method, performance and problems in domestic 900 MWe class PWRs were discussed, and domestic R and D works were summarized. Foreign technologies were also reviewed. They include Mode G and Mode X of Foratom, D and L bank method of KWU, the method using PSCEA of ABB-CE, and MSHIM of Westinghouse. The load-following related special features of ...
Loading pattern optimization (LPO) for a PWR in nuclear power plant contains three parts: fuel assembly location optimization, burnable poison placement optimization, and used fuel assembly orientation optimization. To solve the former two parts, this paper devises an innovative stochastic evolutionary algorithm-Interval Bound Algorithm (IBA), which can optimize fuel assembly location and burnable poison placement together. IBA just uses the fuel assembly's infinite multiplication factor to get rid of unfavorable patterns and to explore new promising solution space. To solve the last part, this paper applies Estimation of Distribution Algorithms (EDAs), which also belong to evolutionary algorithms. These three parts depend on each other, so it is better not to solve them separately. In order to optimize these parts in a coupled way, we use Symbiotic Co-evolutionary Algorithm (SCA) ...
The SMART (System-integrated Modular Advanced ReacTor) which is a 330 MWt advanced integral PWR was developed by the KAERI (Korea Atomic Energy Institute) for electricity generation and seawater desalination. A thermal hydraulic evaluation and analysis of the SMART is performed by the TASS /SMR-S (Transient And Setpoint Simulation/System integrated Modular Reactor-Safety). The TASS/SMR-S code has various models reflecting the design features of the SMART such as the drift flux model, the core models (core power and core heat transfer model), the component models, and the specific models. One of the core models is the core heat transfer model. The role of this model is to calculate the heat flux and radial temperature profiles at a fuel rod surface using the relevant heat transfer correlations for all of the heat transfer modes. Also it is modeled to meet the requirements of the 10 CFR 50 appendix K EM model for the CHF (Critical Heat Flux) and ...
A pyrochemical process has been introduced and utilized so that the transmutation of spent PWRfuel in PEACER can produce mainly low and intermediate level waste for near surface disposal. Major radioactive nuclides from PEACER pyro-processing are composed of TRU and LLFP. In this study, the requirement for the final waste from PEACER is evaluated based on the methodology for establishment of waste acceptance criteria. Also, sensitivity analysis for several input parameters is conducted in order to determine acceptable decontamination factor (DF) and LLFP removal efficiency and to find out input parameter that extremely have an effect on DF. As a result of the study, LLFP removal efficiency, especially Sr-90 and Tc-99, is proved to be a major nuclide which contributes to annual dose by human intrusion scenario rather than TRU DF. More than 98.5% of LLFP have to be removed to meet below dose constraint within the DF more than 5.0E+03. Besides, ...
A pyrochemical process has been introduced and utilized so that the transmutation of spent PWRfuel in PEACER can produce mainly low and intermediate level waste for near surface disposal. Major radioactive nuclides from PEACER pyroprocessing are composed of TRU and LLFP. In this study, the requirement for the final waste from PEACER is evaluated based on the methodology for establishment of waste acceptance criteria. Also, sensitivity analysis for several input parameters is conducted in order to determine acceptable decontamination factor (DF) and LLFP removal efficiency and to find out input parameter that extremely have an effect on DF. As a result of the study, LLFP removal efficiency, especially Sr-90 and Tc-99, is proved to be a major nuclide which contributes to annual dose by human intrusion scenario rather than TRU DF. More than 98.5% of LLFP have to be removed to meet below dose constraint within the DF more than 5.0E + 03. Besides, ...
A pyrochemical process has been introduced and utilized so that the transmutation of spent PWRfuel in PEACER can produce mainly low and intermediate level waste for near surface disposal. Major radioactive nuclides from PEACER pyroprocessing are composed of TRU and LLFP. In this study, the requirement for the final waste from PEACER is evaluated based on the methodology for establishment of waste acceptance criteria. Also, sensitivity analysis for several input parameters is conducted in order to determine acceptable decontamination factor (DF) and LLFP removal efficiency and to find out input parameter that extremely have an effect on DF. As a result of the study, LLFP removal efficiency, especially Sr-90 and Tc-99, is proved to be a major nuclide which contributes to annual dose by human intrusion scenario rather than TRU DF. More than 98.5% of LLFP have to be removed to meet below dose constraint within the DF more than 5.0E + 03. Besides, ...
Recent radiochemical investigations of the PWR reactor coolant have corfirmed earlier observations that the level of activities of 33 m Cs/sup 138/, 2.8 hr Kr , and 8.1 day 1/sup 131/ are more than ten times higher than those predicted for the estimated U contamination of the Zircaloy cladding. The present fission product activity levels have not, as yet, presented any problems in the PWR. (W.L.H.)
Current trends in nuclear power generation (and particularly in pressurized water reactors) are toward plant life extension and extended fuel burnup. A higher heat generation rate can induce local boiling regimes at the fuel rod surface in the hottest channels of the core, which can strongly modify the chemical environment of the cladding and influence the oxidation rate of zirconium alloys. Tests performed in out-of-pile loops under severe chemical and thermal-hydraulic conditions (nucleate boiling, higher lithium contents compared to PWRs) reveal two important phenomena: an increase of the oxidation rate of Zircaloy-4 cladding materials in 'high' lithiated environments; an enrichment of the chemical additives in the primary water (boron, lithium) at the surface of the cladding under nucleate boiling conditions. The latter phenomenon, also called 'hideout effect', is mainly controlled by some thermal hydraulic parameters such as bubble ...
In this experiment, we measured the detection efficiency of gamma-scanning system of Irradiated Materials Examination Facility (IMEF) in Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute(KAERI) for the spent PWRfuel and activity known sources with high activity. We measured the absolute detection efficiency of gamma scanning system of IMEF to the {sup 137}Cs-source with 10.4 GBq and {sup 60}Co source with 25.9 GBq High-activity sources as standard sources, and a fuel burned in the KORI -1 reactor of the Kori Nuclear power plant. In analyzing, we used three peeks those were the 661.64 keV peak form {sup 137} Cs 1173.23 and 1332.51 keV{sup 60} Co sources, and 14 peaks of {sup 134}Cs and {sup 154}Eu on the spent fuel gamma spectrum which are in the energy range from 500 to 1,600 keV. We find second order equations for detection efficiency by using our experimental results. The equation show that the detection ...
In this experiment, we measured the detection efficiency of gamma-scanning system of Irradiated Materials Examination Facility (IMEF) in Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute(KAERI) for the spent PWRfuel and activity known sources with high activity. We measured the absolute detection efficiency of gamma scanning system of IMEF to the "1"3"7Cs-source with 10.4 GBq and "6"0Co source with 25.9 GBq High-activity sources as standard sources, and a fuel burned in the KORI -1 reactor of the Kori Nuclear power plant. In analyzing, we used three peeks those were the 661.64 keV peak form "1"3"7 Cs 1173.23 and 1332.51 keV"6"0 Co sources, and 14 peaks of "1"3"4Cs and "1"5"4Eu on the spent fuel gamma spectrum which are in the energy range from 500 to 1,600 keV. We find second order equations for detection efficiency by using our experimental results. The equation show that the detection efficiency of gamma ...
In the early sixties it was decided to investigate salt formations on its suitability to host heat generating radioactive waste in Germany. In the reference repository concept consequently the emplacement of vitrified waste canisters in deep vertical boreholes inside a salt mine was considered whereas spent fuel should be disposed of in self shielding casks (type POLLUX) in horizontal drifts. The POLLUX casks, 65 t heavy carbon steel casks, will be laid down on the floor of a horizontal drift in one of the disposal zones to be constructed in the salt dome at the 870 m level. The space between casks and drift walls will be backfilled with crushed salt. The transport, the handling und the emplacement of POLLUX casks were subject of successfully performed demonstration and in situ tests in the nineties and resulted in an adjustment of the atomic law. The borehole disposal concept comprises the emplacement of unshielded canisters with vitrified HLW in boreholes with a ...
This work concerns the development of nuclear energy and nuclear waste management in particular. Two parts of this study can be distinguished. In the first part (theoretical), a thorium-plutonium fuel based on MOX and dedicated for PWR was investigated in order to transmute plutonium in a potentially low waste fuel cycle. It was shown that this type of fuel is not regenerative but could be used for a transition to the industrial thorium fuel cycle without building new reactors. Thanks to moderated neutron spectra and high loaded actinide mass in the core, U-233 is quickly created ({approx}300 kg/y) for a loss of about {approx}1200 kg of fissile plutonium. In the second part (experimental), we have developed and built a new reaction chamber to measure neutron cross sections of actinides by alpha-gamma spectroscopy. This experimental device (in principle transportable) was ...
Among KEPCO's 9 nuclear power units, Korea Nuclear Unit No. 3, the Wolsung Nuclear Power Plant is the only CANDU-PHWR Unit, while the rest of 8 others are PWR units. The unit was designed by Atomic Energy of Canada, Ltd. of Canada, who also performed overall project management for the plant construction under the provisions and arrangement of the relevant contracts. The gross electrical output of the plant is 678.7 MWe and thermal output of the reactor is 2061 MWth. While these figures lead to lower plant efficiency than LWR counterparts, unit energy cost for fuel is more favorable than LWRs because natural uranium is utilized for the fuel bundles, some of which are already being fabricated domestically. Annual capacity factors for 1983 and 1984 could have been improved, if two major planned outages for the modification works on steam generator internals and one major forced outage from the heavy water spill ...
In light of the recent rapid increase in the fossil fuel prices it is meaningful to evaluate the impact of these price changes in the economics of dual-purpose desalination projects producing electricity and fresh water simultaneously. The price of crude oil and LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) has increased by about 200% and 100% during the past three or four years. The uranium price has also increased by nearly 500% during the same period. The purpose of this paper is to analyze and compare the economics of SMART (System-integrated Modular Advanced ReacTor) which is being developed as a small size PWR type and the LNG Combine Cycle coupled with MED (Multi-Effect Distillation) which are being acknowledged as promising energy sources for the future in Korea. The methods of analysis used in this paper are the lifetime leveled cost method for the power and water cost calculation and the power credit method for the total cost allocation. DEEP ...
In light of the recent rapid increase in the fossil fuel prices it is meaningful to evaluate the impact of these price changes in the economics of dual-purpose desalination projects producing electricity and fresh water simultaneously. The price of crude oil and LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) has increased by about 200% and 100% during the past three or four years. The uranium price has also increased by nearly 500% during the same period. The purpose of this paper is to analyze and compare the economics of SMART (System-integrated Modular Advanced ReacTor) which is being developed as a small size PWR type and the LNG Combine Cycle coupled with MED (Multi-Effect Distillation) which are being acknowledged as promising energy sources for the future in Korea. The methods of analysis used in this paper are the lifetime leveled cost method for the power and water cost calculation and the power credit method for the total cost allocation. DEEP ...
Isothermal reaction experiments were performed in the temperature range of 1000 - 1300 C in order to determine the chemical interactions between Zircaloy-4 fuel rod cladding and Inconel-718 spacer grids of Pressurized Water Reactors (PWR) under severe accident conditions. It was not possible to apply even higher temperatures since fast and complete liquefaction of the components occurred as a result of eutectic interactions during heatup. The liquid reaction products formed enhance and accelerate the degradation of the material couples and the fuel elements, respectively. Only small amounts of Inconel are necessary to liquefy large amounts of Zircaloy. Thin oxide layers on the Zircaloy surface delay the beginning of the chemical interactions with Inconel but cannot prevent them. In this work the reaction kinetics have been determined for the system: as-received and pre-oxidized Zircaloy-4/Inconel 718. The interactions can ...
Interference between the crossover leg of the Reactor Coolant System(RCS) and the Pipe Whip Restraints(PWR) has brought a degradation issue of the integrity of the Reactor Coolant System in Westinghouse type Nuclear Power Plants(NPPs) of Korea. According to the gap inspection carried out during planned overhaul (year 2000), interference between the crossover leg and the PWR was found in each RCS loop. This plant has had the high vibration problem on the RC pump 'B'. The reason for the high vibration in the RC pump 'B' had been massively surveyed and it was found that the crossover leg of RCS contacted with the PWR in hot condition. Since the contact between the crossover leg and the PWR changes the dynamic characteristics of the piping system for the RCS, this is considered as one reason for the high vibration. And a possibility of overstress on the crossover leg due ...
The radiation dose and the atmospheric dispersion for Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) are based on the CAN/CSA N288.2-M91 standards: for Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) on the NRC Regulatory Guide 1.145. There are some differences between in the methodologies used in the standards, including the atmospheric dispersion model, the release height, the temperature lapse rate, the cutoff condition. This paper reports on a comparison of standards for atmospheric dispersion models of PHWRs and PWRs in order to determine which one is the more conservative. The comparison between PHWR and PWR for atmospheric dispersion factors and radiation doses confirms that there are no big differences
Since first PWR in Japan started commercial operation in 1970, we have encountered the various modes of corrosion on primary and secondary side components. We have paid much efforts for resolving these corrosion problems, that is, investigating the causes of corrosion and establishing the countermeasures for these corrosion. We summarize these efforts in this article. (author)
Following a referendum in Italy in 1987, the four Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) owned and operated by the state utility ENEL were closed. After closing the NPPs, ENEL selected a ''safestore'' decommissioning strategy; anticipating a safestore period of some 40-50 years. This approach was consistent with the funds collected during plant operation, and was reinforced by the lack of both a waste repository and a set of national free release limits for contaminated materials in Italy. During 1999, twin decisions were made to privatize ENEL and to transform the nuclear division into a separate subsidiary of the ENEL group. This group was renamed Sogin and during the following year, ownership of the company was transferred to the Italian Treasury. On formation, Sogin was asked by the Italian government to review the national decommissioning strategy. The objective of the review was to move from a safestore strategy to a prompt decommissioning strategy, with ...
The results of a scoping study of onsite radiation exposures which could take place in each of three types of postulated reactor accidents are presented. The accident types are (1) a fuel handling accident at a Mark III BWR; an interfacing system LOCA or V sequence at a PWR; and and Anticipated Transient Without Scram (ATWS) at a Mark I BWR. Both external and internal dose pathways are considered. The results of the study indicate the prohibitively high radiation doses could be received in some plant areas if personnel were to remain there. However, times of the order of a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the type of accident, would be available before life-threatening doses would be accumulated assuming that the provided full face respiratory protection equipment were used promptly. Special attention was given radiation doses possibly received by control room personnel for several control room air in-leakage assumptions. For occupancy ...
A technique involving shifting of core fuel loadings was investigated as a method for reducing the neutron flux at points of high damage accumulation in the pressure vessel wall of a light water reactor. Calculations were run for six types of commercial generic PWR. Information is provided on the progress being made to develop and apply the Solid State Track Recorder (SSTR) method for in-situ in- and ex-vessel measurements of neutron exposure parameter values, such as fluence (E > 1.0 MeV) and dpa in iron. A new technique of quantitative track counting, the Buffon needle method, is advanced. It is based on random sampling of the SSTR surface. A desensitized etching technique was developed that resulted in an excellent differential energy response for alpha particles in the 3- to 14-MeV energy range. The optical efficiency of Muscovite mica for manual fission track counting is being redetermined to form a data base for comparison with ...
The Four years of the IMPACT, 'Integrated Modular Plant Analysis and Computing Technology' project Phase 1 have been completed. The verification study of Severe Accident Analysis Code SAMPSON prototype developed in Phase 1 was conducted in two steps. First, each analysis module was run independently and analysis results were compared and verified against separate-effect test data with good results. Test data are as follows: CORA-13 (FZK) for the Core Heat-up Module; VI-3 of HI/VI Test (ORNL) for the FP Release from Fuel Module; KROTOS-37 (JRC-ISPRA) for the Molten Core Relocation Module; Water Spread Test (UCSB) for the Debris Spreading Model and Benard's Melting Test for Natural Convection Model in the Debris Cooling Module; Hydrogen Burning Test (NUPEC) for the Ex-Vessel Thermal Hydraulics Module; PREMIX, PM10 (FZK) for the Steam Explosion Module; and SWISS-2 (SNL) for the Debris-Concrete Interaction Module. Second, with the Simulation Supervisory System, up to ...
...identified as oil when the shipment document accurately describes the material as: aviation fuel, diesel fuel, fuel oil, gasoline, jet fuel, kerosene, motor fuel, or...
A series of pipe rupture tests has been performed at JAERI to demonstrate the safety of primary coolant circuits in the event of pipe rupture in nuclear power plants. Pipe whip tests and jet discharge tests have been conducted under BWR and PWR loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) conditions. The present paper describes the experimental and analytical results of the pipe whip tests performed under PWR LOCA conditions using 4, 6 and 8-inch test pipes. The tests were carried out at an initial pressure and temperature of 15.7 MPa and 325/sup 0/C, respectively. Moreover, a dynamic analysis of pipe whip tests was carried out using the general purpose finite element programm ADINA.
The calculated radioactive waste inventories of the Turkey Point pressurized water fission reactor (PWR) and the Starfire conceptual fusion tokamak are compared as a function of time from initial start-up to 10,000 years after decommissioning. Only materi...
The installation procedure, the fabrication, fitting up, positioning, adjustment and welding of piping, examinations, hydrostatics testing and insulation of piping for reactor primary circuit piping of Daya Bay Nuclear power Plant are briefly described.
Results of field applications of boric acid in the secondary coolant circuits of seven PWR units for the purpose of reducing the rate of corrosion denting are reported. Based on available data at the power plants considered in this study, it was not possible to support or refute the benefit of using boric acid secondary water treatment.
The quality of fuel oils is discussed. The problems that the fuel oil marketer must deal with that relate to the quality of the fuel oil are described.
A fuel composition comprising a liquid hydrocarbon fuel and a detergent amount of the product of reaction between a polyamine and a stearic acid is described.
Comments are made on the Public Inquiry into CEGB's proposal to construct a pressurized water reactor (PWR) at Sizewell, UK. Aspects discussed include: time elapsed and its possible effect on the result; economics of nuclear power plants compared with coal-fired power plants; changes in real sterling/dollar exchange rates; effect of mineworkers' strike; the UK electric power generating system; AGR reactors compared with PWR reactors; extension of Magnox reactor life; radioactive waste management; political decisions.
Selection of detailed-items for Periodic Safety Review on PWR radwaste management system, the main component could be faithfully clarified according to the purpose of establishment on each system and basic purpose. It is proper to select detailed-items those of radioactivities in the reactor coolant activity levels and the released volume of liquid and gaseous radioactive material on safety performance. It's also proper to select solid radwaste production quantities as detailed-item that it would be predict the next ten years trends after PSR.
Since the PWR plants in Japan have been operated more than 30 years, main instrumentation control equipment of analog systems has been renewed to digital control systems. Renewal works had to be done in short period within periodical inspection term and for several facilities. The Mitsubishi LTD group had been provided with these market needs by its digital control system (MELTAC-NplusR 3) applicable to main instrumentation control equipment for primary and secondary systems and had already finished the renewal for practical plants. (T. Tanaka)
The paper is concerned with the simulation of practical testing situations which are too difficult and/or expensive to replicate in a laboratory environment. Numerical experiments are described which simulate the differential eddy current probe response to the build-up and chemical flushing of magnetite in the crevice gap of a PWR steam generator unit. The simulation results agree well with the only experimental data available to the authors and lead to the conclusion that conventional differential eddy current probes should be capable of characterizing crevice gap conditions with respect to the presence of magnetite. (author).
Resistance of ALLOY 800 as a PWR/SG tubings to IGC/IGSCC and Ni, Co release into high temperature water was evaluated as compared with ALLOYs 600 and 690. The study to improve the resistance to IGSCC and general corrosion was also made. From the results, ALLOY 800 was evaluated to be the most reliable among the high Ni alloys tested. In addition, the alloy would obtain further reliability in IGSCC and general corrosion resistance by the combined addition of Ti and Nb, and the prior oxidation treatments, respectively. (author).
The thermal-hydraulic tests for a horizontal steam generator of a next-generation PWR (New PWR-21) were performed. The purpose of these tests is to understand the thermal-hydraulic behavior in the secondary side of horizontal steam generator during the plant normal operation. A test was carried out with cross section slice model simulated the straight tube region. In this paper, the results of the test is reported, and the effect of the horizontal steam generator internals on the thermal-hydraulic behavior of the secondary side and the circulation characteristics of the secondary side are discussed. (author)
The thermal-hydraulic tests for a horizontal steam generator of a next-generation PWR (New PWR-21) were performed. The purpose of these tests is to understand the thermal-hydraulic behavior in the secondary side of horizontal steam generator during the plant normal operation. A test was carried out with cross section slice model simulated the straight tube region. In this paper, the results of the test is reported, and the effect of the horizontal steam generator internals on the thermal-hydraulic behavior of the secondary side and the circulation characteristics of the secondary side are discussed. (author).
fuel obligation under the RFS2 program for the production or importation of conventional jet fuel, RINs can be generated for renewable jet fuel. Is that right? A: As described in...
of different transportation fuels (e.g., gasoline, diesel fuel, aviation gasoline, jet fuel, residual fuel oil). Subsequent calculations are performed to estimate the share...
Mitsubishi is now developing a next-generation Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) which has the innovative feature of hybrid safety systems (optimum combination of passive safety system and active safety system) and passive core cooling by horizontal steam generators during Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA). In order to confirm the capability of this passive core cooling system during LOCAs, the thermal-hydraulic tests of horizontal steam generator and the integral thermal-hydraulic tests simulating the LOCAs were performed. The thermal-hydraulic tests of horizontal steam generator consist of a single tube test and a multi-tubes test. On the basis of these test results, the heat transfer characteristics of steam-water two-phase flow with noncondensable gas along a long horizontal tube is understood and the heat transfer correlation including the effect of noncondensable gas is presented. The integral thermal-hydraulic tests simulate the small LOCA and the large LOCA ...
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This patent describes a gas-diesel dual fuel engine apparatus having a diesel engine, a diesel fuel supply system including a diesel fuel injection pump, a gaseous fuel supply system including gaseous fuel regulating valve, and a governing and controlling device for governing the speed of the engine and controlling the switchover of the operation of the engine between a diesel fuel mode and a gaseous fuel mode.
In-core thermal-hydraulics during a PWR reflood phase following a large-break LOCA are quite unique in comparison with two-phase flow which has been studied widely in previous researches, because the geometry of the flow path is complicated (bundle geometry) and water is at extremely low superficial velocity and almost under stagnant condition. Hence, some phenomena realized during a PWR reflood phase are not understood enough and appropriate analytical models have not been developed, although they are important in a viewpoint of reactor safety evaluation. Therefore, author investigated some phenomena specified as important issues for quantitative prediction, i.e. (1) void fraction in a bundle during a PWR reflood phase, (2) effect of radial core power profile on reflood behavior, (3) effect of combined emergency core coolant injection on reflood behavior, and (4) the core separation into two thermal-hydraulically different ...
PWR primary circuit radiolysis model describes oxygen/hydrogen behavior in the Westinghouse Sizewell B 4-loop PWR (SNUPPS design). The effect of oxygen ingress have also been evaluated using the same model. There is clear agreement from experimental and modelling data that the dissolved hydrogen concentration required to suppress radiolysis decreases as the temperature increases. There is good evidence from the study at the Belleville PWR that {approx}5 cc(STP)kg{sup -1} H{sub 2} is sufficient to suppress radiolysis during power operation. Modelling indicates that the minimum hydrogen concentration is about 0.5 cc (STP)kg{sup -1} at PWR operating temperatures and that the presence of boric acid has little effect on this value, although it does increase the steady-state concentration of H{sub 2}O{sub 2}. Downstream of the core the concentrations of both oxygen and hydrogen peroxide fall by about two ...
This paper addresses fuel cycle cost comparisons for a generic 10 MW reactor with HEU aluminide fuel and with LEU oxide and silicide fuels in several fuel element geometries. The intention of this study is to provide a consistent assessment of various design options from a cost point of view. Fuel cycle cost benefits could result if a number of reactors were to utilize fuel elements with the same number or different numbers of the same standard fuel plate. Data are presented to quantify these potential cost benefits. This analysis shows that there are a number of fuel element designs using LEU oxide or silicide fuels that have either the same or lower total fuel cycle costs than the HEU design. Use of these fuels with the uranium densities considered requires ...
The analytical results of blowdown characteristics and its thrust force were compared with the experiment, which were performed as pipe whip tests under the PWR LOCA conditions on the hypothetical accident of guillotine break of pipes. The blowdown thrust force was obtained by the integral momentum equation about single-phase flow, homogeneous and separated two-phase flow, assuming critical pressure at the exit if critical flow condition was satisfied. The following results are obtained: (1) The node-junction method is useful for the analysis of water hammer phenomena and of the blowdown thrust force. (2) The Henry-Fauske model for subcooled critical flow is effective for the analysis of the maximum thrust force under the PWR LOCA conditions. The jet thrust parameter of analysis and experiment is 1.08. (3) The thrust parameter of saturated blowdown has the same one with the value under pressurized condition when the stagnant pressure is chosen ...
The analytical results of blowdown characteristics and thrust forces were compared with the experiments, which were performed as pipe whip and jet discharge tests under the PWR LOCA conditions. The blowdown thrust forces were obtained by Navier-Stokes momentum equation for a single-phase, homogeneous and separated two-phase flow, assuming critical pressure at the exit if a critical flow condition was satisfied. The following results are obtained: (1) The node-junction method is useful for both the analyses of the blowdown thrust force and of the water hammer phenomena. (2) The Henry-Fauske model for subcooled critical flow is effective for the analysis of the maximum thrust force under the PWR LOCA conditions. The jet thrust parameter of the analysis and experiment is equal to 1.08. (3) The thrust parameter of saturated blowdown has the same one with the value under pressurized condition when the stagnant pressure is chosen as the saturated ...
The multidimensional countercurrent two-phase flow regimes that occur in a pressurized-water reactor (PWR) vessel downcomer during the refill phase of a large-break loss-of-coolant accident are studied using a transparent 1/10 scale model of a PWR vessel. The various flow regimes and their distribution in the downcomer have been identified and mapped for a range of air-water flooding experiments. The two-phase flow patterns that are identified in the downcomer included various types of film flows, droplet flows, countercurrent churn flows and cocurrent flows depending on the flooding condition. Through observation of the two-phase flow dynamics it was deduced that the physical mechanisms associated with the flooding processes could be separated into a liquid entrainment process and a film flow reversal process. In addition to the above exercise, the effect of non-uniform injection of water into the downcomer via different combinations of cold ...
The multidimensional countercurrent two-phase flow regimes that occur in a pressurized-water reactor (PWR) vessel downcomer during the refill phase of a large-break loss-of-coolant accident are studied using a transparent 1/10 scale model of a PWR vessel. The various flow regimes and their distribution in the downcomer have been identified and mapped for a range of air-water flooding experiments. The two-phase flow patterns that are identified in the downcomer included various types of film flows, droplet flows, countercurrent churn flows and cocurrent flows depending on the flooding condition. Through observation of the two-phase flow dynamics it was deduced that the physical mechanisms associated with the flooding processes could be separated into a liquid entrainment process and a film flow reversal process. In addition to the above exercise, the effect of non-uniform injection of water into the downcomer via different combinations of cold ...
The purposes of the pipe rupture studies at the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute are to perform the model tests on the pipe whip of a pipe-restraints system, to get jet impingement force and blowdown thrust force, and to establish the computational method for the analysis of these phenomena. This paper presents the experimental and analytical results of the pipe whip tests carried out under the PWR LOCA conditions using the test pipe of 4-inch diameter and the U-shaped restraints. In the tests, the gap between the test pipe and the restraints was set nearly constant and the overhang length was 250 mm, 400 mm or 650 mm. The dynamic strains and residual deformations of the test pipe and restraints, and the restraint force were measured to clarify the effects of the overhang length on the pipe whip behaviors of the pipe-restraints system. It was confirmed from the pressure data that the present pipe whip tests were performed under the PWR ...
In this paper, the control scheme of a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)-diesel dual-fuel engine with electronic control is illustrated, the external characteristics and load characteristics of the LPG-diesel dual-fuel engine and the diesel engine are compared and analysed, and the results of automobile road tests are also given. The experimental results show that, compared with diesel, the output performance of dual fuel is not reduced, while smoke emission of dual fuel is significantly reduced, NO{sub x} emission of dual fuel is hardly changed, but HC emission and CO emission of dual fuel are increased and fuel consumption of dual fuel is reduced. (Author)
Flow Accelerated Corrosion (FAC) of Carbon Steel (CS) piping has been one of main issues in Light-Water Nuclear Reactor (LWRs). Wall thinning of CS piping due to FAC increases potential risk of pipe rupture and cost for inspection and replacement of damaged pipes. In particular, corrosion products generated by FAC of CS piping brought steam generator (SG) tube corrosion and degradation of thermal performance, when it intruded and accumulated in secondary side of PWR. To preserve SG integrity by suppressing the corrosion of CS, High-AVT chemistry (Feedwater pH9.8#+-#0.2) has been adopted to Tsuruga-2 (1160 MWe PWR, commercial operation in 1987) in July 2005 instead of conventional Low-AVT chemistry (Feedwater pH 9.3). By the High-AVT adoption, the accumulation rate of iron in SG was reduced to one-quarter of that under conventional Low-AVT. As a result, a tendency to degradation of the SG thermal efficiency was improved. On the other hand, it ...
The effects of changes in the cetane number of liquid pilot fuels on the ignition delay period in dual fuel engines were investigated experimentally. Various pilot fuel quantities were employed with methane, propane and low heating value gaseous fuel mixtures over a wide range of engine load.the ignition delay variation with increased gaseous fuel admission showed a strong dependence on both the quantity and the quality of the pilot fuel used. It was found that the use of high cetane number pilot liquid fuels permitted smaller pilot quantities to be used satisfactorily. Engine operation on propane and low heating value gaseous fuels improved in comparison with dual fuel engine operation employing common diesel fuels.
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The Electric Power Monthly is prepared by the Survey Management Division; Office of Coal, Nuclear, Electric and Alternate Fuels, Energy Information Administration (EIA), Department of Energy. This publication provides monthly statistics at the national, Census division, and State levels for net generation, fuel consumption, fuel stocks, quantity and quality of fuel, cost of fuel, electricity sales, revenue, and average revenue per kilowatthour of electricity sold. Data on net generation, fuel consumption, fuel stocks, quantity and cost of fuel are also displayed for the North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC) regions. Additionally, statistics by company and plant are published in the EPM on capability of new plants, new generation, fuel consumption, fuel stocks, ...
Proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells are energy sources that have the ... for H2 /02 PEM fuel cells because their catalysts have properties suitable for 0 ...
This paper describes the CANDU fuel development activities in Canada during 1997 through 1998. The activities include those of the Fuel Technology Program sponsored by the CANDU Owners Group. The goal of the Fuel Technology Program is to maintain and improve the reliability, economics and safety of CANDU fuel in operating reactors. These activities, therefore, concentrate on the present designs of 28-element and 37-element fuel bundles. The Canadian fuel development activities also include those of the Advanced Fuel and Fuel Cycle Technology Program at AECL. These activities concentrate on the development of advanced fuel designs and advanced fuel cycles, which among other advantages, can reduce the capital and fuelling costs, maintain operating margins in aging reactors, improve ...
This paper describes a series of tests investigating two-phase flow regimes in a transparent model of a PWR hot leg. Test conditions were selected to cover a wide range of gas and liquid superficial velocities (.01 m/s 2 m/s) were also performed for comparison with semi-analytical predictions. Results include average void fractions, flow rates, and visual characterizations of the two-phase flow phenomena. Results show generally good agreement with Taitel and Duckler flow regime map and Zuber-Findlay correlation for average void fraction in vertical pipes. Results also indicate that flow regimes and collapsed liquid level (void fraction) are more strongly dependent on air flow rate (air superficial velocity) than water flow rate (water superficial velocity).
The Surry low power and shutdown probabilistic risk analysis (PRA) is an ongoing project at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) to identify and quantify potential accident scenarios that may occur in a pressurized water reactor (PWR) during low power and shutdown. It was initiated as a result of various incidents and accidents that have occurred within the United States and overseas. The project involves review and evaluation of PWR experience at shutdown, identification of accident scenarios, determination of methods to mitigate the accidents, and performance a level 1 PRA. An evaluation of accident progression, source terms and consequences has also been initiated. The results will be used to address issues related to shutdown conditions. The objective of this paper is to provide a progress report on the project, and to present the approach used as well as the preliminary results of the ongoing and completed tasks.
A reasonable understanding of PWR steam generator corrosion mechanisms such as denting and wastage has been developed, and adequate chemistry control programs defined to obviate the magnitude and effects of these modes of attack. However, relatively unique corrosion attack modes have been encountered at several plants notwithstanding the presence of a reasonable to very good chemistry control program when considered in light of the Steam Generator Owners Group chemistry guidelines. The uniqueness of attack also suggests that parameters not routinely measured or monitored may be playing a significant role. In the authors opinions, the only reasonable method of routinely identifying corrosion accelerating species present in crevices, sludge piles, and deposits in PWR steam generators is by performing detailed chemical return studies during power transients, shutdowns, and long term layups. Although it would be preferable to obtain samples from ...
The Seismic Proving Test of Heavy Component with Energy Absorbing Supports has been conducted to prove the reliability of advanced seismic technology, supporting heavy component such as PWR steam generator with large capacity energy absorbing supports under the sponsorship of Ministry of Economical Trade and Industry. If energy absorbing supports are adopted for NPP heavy components, support structure of facility will be much simplified due to their seismic energy absorbing effect. The paper describes the results of lead damper element test and seismic test at Tadotsu Laboratory, using 1/2.5 scale PWR Steam Generator model supported by Lead Extraction Damper (LED) and development of characteristics evaluation formula of energy absorbing support. (author)
To make a quantitative comparison of risks between the SNR-300 and a modern PWR (Biblis B), the consequences of an accident or the extent of damage of a release of radionuclides to the environment due to an accident are estimated by computer programs for accident consequence models. The accident analysis includes an analysis of events for Bethe-Tait accidents with failure of the outer containment. The FGSB release rates are compared with those of the Society for Reactor Safety (GRS).
The calculated radioactive waste inventories of the Turkey Point pressurized water fission reactor (PWR) and the Starfire conceptual fusion tokamak are compared as a function of time from initial start-up to 10,000 years after decommissioning. Only material out of reactor at least one year is considered. The total activity in Ci/W(th) of the Starfire tokamak is slightly greater than that of the PWR during the active lifetimes of the two reactors and beyond 1000 years. However, using reduced activation materials in Starfire can result in about 1/2000 as much long-lived radioactivity as in the fission reactor. It is stressed that comparison of wastes on this basis is not straightforward, since the radioisotopes and methods required for their disposal are different for fusion and fission reactors. 2 refs., 1 fig., 2 tabs.
The research committee of the Atomic Energy Society of Japan on water chemistry standard aims at establishing the private standard of water chemistry of nuclear power plants. The committee gathers up 'BWR water chemistry management manual', 'PWR primary system water chemistry management manual' and 'PWR water chemical analysis standard method', and furthermore aims at the standardization of those in future. Looking back on the committee's activities for the past four years, latest results of research of water chemistry mainly contributing to safe and reliable nuclear power plants were described with the future perspective of water chemistry and a demanded break-through. (T.T.)
New standard catalogs for piping, supports, and valves have been introduced by Kraftwerk Union (KWU) for the first time in its Convoy series of PWR plants. These catalogs, underlying regulatory codes, and newly developed KWU specifications are described. Feedwater and main steam piping systems within the containment, including pipe supports and valves, are used to demonstrate the high quality level of piping technology achieved in the Federal Republic of Germany. Such quality standards ensure the integrity of single components as well as of the entire system, so that, under certain conditions, pipe whip restraints against postulated breaks have become unnecessary. The quality aspects apply basically for both PWR and BWR plants of KWU.
Resistance of Alloy 800 as a PWR S/G tube material to IGC/IGSCC and Ni, Co release into water was evaluated as compared with Alloys 600 and 690. The study to improve the resistance to IGSCC and general corrosion was also made, including the effects of shot-peening on the distribution of the residual stress of the U-bent tubes and the susceptibility to SCC, the stabilizing elements on IGC/IGSCC, and prior oxidation on general corrosion. From the results, shot-peened Alloy 800 was estimated to be the most reliable S/G tube material among the high nickel alloys tested. In addition, the Alloy 800 tube would obtain further reliability in IGSCC and general corrosion resistance by the combined addition of Ti, and Nb, and the prior oxidation of the inner tube surface, respectively.
Resistance of Alloy 800 as a PWR S/G tube material to IGC/IGSCC and Ni, Co release into water was evaluated as compared with Alloys 600 and 690. The study to improve the resistance to IGSCC and general corrosion was also made, including the effects of shot-peening on the distribution of the residual stress of the U-bent tubes and the susceptibility to SCC, the stabilizing elements on IGC/IGSCC, and prior oxidation on general corrosion. From the results, shot-peened Alloy 800 was estimated to be the most reliable S/G tube material among the high nickel alloys tested. In addition, the Alloy 800 tube would obtain further reliability in IGSCC and general corrosion resistance by the combined addition of Ti, and Nb, and the prior oxidation of the inner tube surface, respectively.
This paper presents experimental and analytical results of pipe whip tests performed under PWR LOCA conditions using a test pipe of 4-inch diameter and U-shaped restraints. In the tests, the effects of the overhang length on the pipe whip behavior of the piperestraints system were studied by measuring the strains and deformations of the test pipe and restraints, and the restraints forces. The equation for predicting the maximum strain at the outer surface of the pipe was derived using a static equilibrium condition. The calculated maximum strains at the outer surface of the pipe agree fairly well with experimental data. The dynamic response analysis of the pipe-restraints system was conducted by the finite element program ADINA. The applicability of the ADINA program to the pipe whip analysis is made clear through this analysis.
With the issuance of the Decommissioning Rule (July 27, 1988), nuclear power plant licensees are required to submit to the US Regulatory Commission (NRC) for review, decommissioning plans and cost estimates. This user`s manual and the accompanying Cost Estimating Computer Program (CECP) software provide a cost-calculating methodology to the NRC staff that will assist them in assessing the adequacy of the licensee submittals. The CECP, designed to be used on a personnel computer, provides estimates for the cost of decommissioning PWR plant stations to the point of license termination. Such cost estimates include component, piping, and equipment removal costs; packaging costs; decontamination costs; transportation costs; burial costs; and manpower costs. In addition to costs, the CECP also calculates burial volumes, person-hours, crew-hours, and exposure person-hours associated with decommissioning.
This paper presents the results of the dynamic response analysis of the pipe-restraints system by the general purpose finite element program ADINA. The analysis was carried out for the pipe whip tests performed under the PWR-LOCA conditions using 4-in. test pipe. In the analysis, the test pipe was modeled by an assemblage of the beam elements with the isotropic elastic-plastic material properties and the restraints were represented by the truss elements with the nonlinear elastic material properties including gap effect. The following results are obtained through the analysis. (1) Pipe can be modeled with the beam elements, when the overhang length is short and, therefore, the flattening of a cross-section of pipe is small. (2) The steady state restraint force can be predicted by modeling the restraints with the truss elements.
In case of a severe nuclear accident at a PWR plant, countermeasures will be initiated in the short term by authorities to reduce the consequences of the atmospheric radioactive releases on the neighbouring population. Various factors influence the level of protection afforded by countermeasures. For instance, a too late intervention would lead to a Jack of efficiency in terms of dose reduction if the actual evolution of the accident is not considered. Thus, implementation of countermeasures should be optimized. In general, the projected doses (those without countermeasure) are compared with those expected when a particular countermeasure or strategy is implemented. In this paper, an in-depth analysis associates the kinetics of the release with the corresponding evolution of the dosimetric efficiency of countermeasures. This is done at different times in the short term of the accident and for various distances from the plant. Results are presented for different ...
A diesel engine having staged injection for using lower cetane number fuels than No. 2 diesel fuel. The engine includes a main fuel injector and a pilot fuel injector. Pilot and main fuel may be the same fuel. The pilot injector injects from five to fifteen percent of the total fuel at timings from 20.degree. to 180.degree. BTDC depending upon the quantity of pilot fuel injected, the fuel cetane number and speed and load. The pilot fuel injector is directed toward the centerline of the diesel cylinder and at an angle toward the top of the piston, avoiding the walls of the cylinder. Stratification of the early injected pilot fuel is needed to reduce the fuel-air mixing rate, prevent loss of pilot fuel to quench zones, ...
A transition from petroleum~derived jet fuels to blends with Fischer-Tropsch (F~T) fuels, and ultimately fully synthetic hydro-isomerized F-T fuels has raised concern about the fate of plasticizers in nitrile-butadiene rubber a-rings that are contacted by the fuels as this transition occurs. The partitioning of plasticizers and fuel molecules between nitrile a-rings and petroleum-derived, synthetic, and additized-synthetic jet fuels has been measured. Thermal desorption of o-rings soaked in the various jet fuels followed by gas chromatographic analysis with a mass spectrometric detector showed many of the plasticizer and stabilizer compounds were removed from the o-rings regardless of the contact fuel. Fuel molecules were observed to migrate into the o-rings for the petroleum-derived ...
The modification of a Ford 7600 turbocharged diesel engine to a dual fuel engine using methane as the supplementary fuel has been carried out. The paper describes the preliminary work of dual fuel control. Two systems are examined and their behaviour is presented.
Due to depletion of fossil fuel, bio-fuels have generated a significant interest as an alternative fuel for the future. The use of bio-fuels to fuel gas turbine seems a viable solution for the problems of decreasing fossil-fuel reserves and environmental concerns. Bio-fuels are alternative fuels, made from renewable sources and having environmental benefit. In recent years, the desire for energy independence, foreseen depletion of nonrenewable fuel resources, fluctuating petroleum fuel costs, the necessity of stimulating agriculture based economy, and the reality of climate change have created an interest in the development of bio-fuels. The application of bio-fuels in automobiles and heating applications is increasing day by day. ...
The LWR fuel performance analysis computer code, FRAPCON-1, are evaluated to investigate the performance of CANDU fuel elements loaded in Wolsung-1 reactor. The FRAPCON-1 models of neutron flux depression in fuel and of fuel-to-cladding heat transfer are modified, and the validity of fission gas release model for CANDU fuel is evaluated. And the heavy water properties are provided in calculating the heat transfer coefficient between cladding and coolant. By using the modified code, FRAPCON-1-CSK, the sensitivity studies are carried out for Wolsung-1 fuel element design parameters. The performance analysis is also performed for Wolsung-1 fuel elements. The calculated results are discussed in terms of LWR fuel design criteria because of unavailability of CANDU fuel design criteria. (Author).
Peculiarities of Kurchatov Institute WWR-2 and TR research reactors spent fuel treating and transportation for radiochemical processing are stated. Spent fuels were performed as fuel assemblies of different forms and containing similar fuel elements: EhK-10 with 10% enrichment UO2-Mg fuel kernels or S-36 with 36% enrichment U-Al alloys. Spent fuel storage conditions are described. Features of developed procedures for identification of fuel assemblies by type of fuel elements are given. Transport package TUK-19 for loading and transportation of spent fuel for processing was chosen. Details of spent fuel loading in TUK-19 that is conducted by personnel under protective sheet of water in special reclaim volume are described
A compression ignition engine was operated on dual fuel principle inducting two commercial fuels and four pure hydrocarbon fuels in turn through intake manifold along with air and injecting diesel fuel to initiate the combustion in the conventional manner. The engine was operated at different loads and at each load the quantity of inducted fuel was increased gradually till knocking set in. The engine performance and exhaust pollutant emissions were recorded at different operating conditions. It was observed that the extent of induction and the effect on the performance depend on the properties of the inducted fuel such as volatility, self ignition temperature and oxidation characteristics. The energy release during the cycle was also observed to shift depending on the properties of inducted fuel. With the dual fuel ...
This patent describes a low emission duel fuel engine system. It comprises: a dual fuel engine having a combustion chamber; a fuel oil supply connected to the engine; a fuel gas supply connected to the engine; and means connected between the fuel oil supply and the engine for injecting fuel oil into the engine. The means connected between the engine and fuel oil supply limiting the injection of fuel oil to the combustion chamber to pilot ignition quantities only, wherein the limiting means includes means for limiting the injection of fuel oil such that the exhaust emission of NO{sub x} is at an emission rate of less than 1 GM/PH-HR, whereby the exhaust emission performance of the dual fuel engine is enhanced.
... values and unless special precautions and equipment are used, it would be very difficult to service and maintain operational jet-fuel systems with ...
A dual fuel engine control system for controlling the power output of a dual fuel compression ignition engine. The engine includes mixing means for combining an oxidizer and a primary fuel at a substantially constant ratio of oxidizer to primary fuel. The power output of the engine is controlled through the use of a throttle valve controlling the quantity of combustible mixture delivered to the combustion chamber. The fuel control system minimizes the quantity of ignition fuel required by controlling the quantity of combustible mixture rather than the fuel of air ratio. (author) figs.
This is a continuation of research that started in July 2007 at the Deep River Science Academy. The research was related to the effects of endplate thickness and misalignment of fuel bundles in the fuel channel on pressure losses of reactor coolant. Based on this research, a new approach to refueling of the CANDU reactor has been developed. It greatly simplifies fuel handling equipment and increases its reliability. It also reduces required staffing, as well as operating and maintenance costs associated with fuel handling. (author)
An improved hydrocarbon fuel is described selected from the group consisting of gasoline, diesel fuel, kerosene, jet fuel, No. 1 heating oil, and No. 2 heating oil containing a detectable amount of one or more fullerene additives therein serving as identification means for said fuel wherein said fullerenes are present in an amount insufficient to alter any of the combustion properties of the fuel.
To make a quantitative comparison of risks between the SNR 300 and a modern PWR (Biblis B), the consequences of an accident or the extent of damage of a release of radionuclides to the environment due to an accident are estimated by computer programs for accident consequence models. The accident analysis includes an analysis of events for Bethe-Tait accidents with failure of the outer containment. The FGSB release rates are compared with those of the Society for Reactor Safety (GRS). (HP).
The investigations carried out on Alloy 800 in aqueous high-temperature environments in France as well as in other countries are reviewed. These studies are mainly concerned with nuclear industry where Alloy 800 can be used as structural material for steam generators of PWR, breeders or HTR. As results referred to in the literature on cracking in caustic environmens do not always agree, a discussion is presented on the matter. The behaviour of Alloy 800 in superheated steam is examined. (Auth.).
This paper presents a series of modeling experiences and problems in simulating the thermal-hydraulic behavior of large PWR steam generators using the RELAP4 and RELAP5 computer codes. Sensitivity studies investigating the heat transfer characteristics of both once-through and U-tube steam generators are discussed. Suggestions and recommendations are given for effective use and potential future improvements of these codes.
Some of the origins of corrosion encountered in the secondary side of pressurized water reactor steam generators are:-sludge accumulation (a mixture of metal oxides, primarily magnetite and copper) on tube sheet and attack of tube support plates by aggressive impurities leading to denting. Although Electricite de France has not suffered from these problems, it has developed a chemical cleaning process to dissolve corrosion products at both locations. (author).
Various electrochemical techniques are available to continuously monitor corrosion in conditions simulating those on the secondary side of PWR steam generators. This paper reviews those electrochemical techniques which are potentially useful to measure denting in tube-support crevices in situ. Attention is also given to corollary needs for monitoring the water chemistry which leads to corrosive attack. Finally some suggestions are offered for corrosion monitoring in autoclaves, model boilers and operating steam generators.
The concept of preliminary transmutation of minor actinides before placement to the long-term storage is considered. The purpose of such preliminary transmutation before ultimate storage is to incinerate a part of actinides and to transform another part into new actinides providing low level of radiotoxicity accumulated in the storage. Modes of transmutation in reactors of PWR, PHWR (CANDU), and Superfenix types are compared. Among power reactors, heavy-water PHWR type reactor is most acceptable for preliminary transmutation. (author)
A review and a number of extracts are given of the statement made by the acting chairman of the CEGB at a press conference on the publication of documents in support of the case for the building of the proposed Sizewell B PWR. The documents comprise the CEGB Statement of Case proper, the Reference Design, the Pre-Construction Safety Report and some 300 supporting reports. Objectors have eight months to study the reports before the public inquiry into the CEGB's proposals due to open in January 1983.
The corrosion rate of low alloy steel SA-508 and carbon steel A-410b in simulated operation and shutdown conditions of pressurized water reactor has been determined Moreover potentiodynamic polarization curves and galvanic effect through coupling of AISI-304 have been carried out under shutdown simulated condition. (Author) 8 refs.
The invention concerns a device for the energy-saving heating of fuel in the supply pipe to an internal combustion engine to regain energy from the fuel itself, particularly but not exclusively for a Diesel engine. A part of the quantity of heat added to the fuel between the tank and the injection nozzles is given up by excess fuel not to the tank, but to the fuel lifted upstream of the injection pump. The device is characterised by the fact that it has a heat exchanger, which absorbs heat from the fuel at the level of the injection pump or upstream of it, and takes this to the fuel above the injection pump. The heat exchanger is preferably mounted upstream of a filter and close to it. A bridging pipe, which may be integrated in the heat exchanger, permits the heat exchanger to be short-circuited depending on the fuel ...
The use of vegetable oils as a fuel in diesel engines causes some problems due to their high viscosity compared with conventional diesel fuel. Various techniques and methods are used to solve the problems resulting from high viscosity. One of these techniques is fuel blending. In this study, a blend of 50% sesame oil and 50% diesel fuel was used as an alternative fuel in a direct injection diesel engine. Engine performance and exhaust emissions were investigated and compared with the ordinary diesel fuel in a diesel engine. The experimental results show that the engine power and torque of the mixture of sesame oil-diesel fuel are close to the values obtained from diesel fuel and the amounts of exhaust emissions are lower than those of diesel fuel. Hence, it is seen that blend of sesame oil and diesel ...
Since January, 1981, the project of development of nuclear fuel fabrication technology for Wolsung reactor (CANDU type) was undertaken by KAERI(Korea Advanced Energy Research Institute) and successfully fulfilled with loading 24 fuel bundles made by KAERI in Wolsung reactor in September, 1984. On the basis of this accumulated technology and experience, mass production plan to supply all the nuclear fuels for Wolsung reactor is under way. In this presentation, the Korean experience in the development of the nuclear fuel fabrication technology, safety and performance evaluation of KAERI fuel and the results of irradiation of KAERI fuels in Wolsung reactor will be described.
Since January, 1981, the project of development of nuclear fuel fabrication technology for Wolsung reactor (CANDU type) was undertaken by KAERI(Korea Advanced Energy Research Institute) and successfully fulfilled with loading 24 fuel bundles made by KAERI in Wolsung reactor in September, 1984. On the basis of this accumulated technology and experience, mass production plan to supply all the nuclear fuels for Wolsung reactor is under way. In this presentation, the Korean experience in the development of the nuclear fuel fabrication technology, safety and performance evaluation of KAERI fuel and the results of irradiation of KAERI fuels in Wolsung reactor will be described.
This report is an overview of current spent nuclear fuel management in the DOE complex. Sources of information include published literature, internal DOE documents, interviews with site personnel, and information provided by individual sites. Much of the specific information on facilities and fuels was provided by the DOE sites in response to the questionnaire for data for spent fuels and facilities data bases. This information is as accurate as is currently available, but is subject to revision pending results of further data calls. Spent fuel is broadly classified into three categories: (a) production fuels, (b) special fuels, and (c) naval fuels. Production fuels, comprising about 80% of the total inventory, are those used at Hanford and Savannah River to produce nuclear materials for defense. Special ...
After a lot of efforts to develop a spark-ignition type dual-fuel engine which can separately use both gas and liquid fuels, a dual-fuel engine which uses ethanol as a liquid fuel has been developed. In this paper, a 13A/LPG dual-fuel engine which uses LPG as an emergency fuel is also introduced. During the development of a dual-fuel engine using city gas (13A)/liquid fuel such 4 kinds of liquid fuel as kerosene, gasoline, ethanol and isobutanol have been examined. As a result of testing, it was proved that ethanol is preferable and a 13A/ethanol DF engine can be used as a generator of different outputs, 100KW for normal service and 70KW for emergency service, without any problems in practical use. On the other hand, a city gas (13A)/LPG dual-fuel engine requires the modification ...
The fuel composition heterogeneity effect on reactor performance parameters was assessed by refueling simulations for three DUPIC fuel options of fuel composition heterogeneity control: the fissile content adjustment, the reactivity control by slightly enriched and depleted uranium, and the reactivity control by natural uranium. For each DUPIC fuel option, the simulations were performed using 30 heterogeneous fuel types which were determined by the agglomerative hierarchical clustering method. The heterogeneity effect was considered during the refueling simulation by randomly selecting fuel types for the refueling operation. The refueling simulations of the heterogeneous core have shown that the key performance parameters such as the maximum channel power (MCP), maximum bundle power (MBP), and channel power peaking factor (CPPF) are close to those of the core ...
A new procedure of fuel layering for the Fast Ignition Realization Experiment (FIREX) target is proposed. A conical laser guide heating technique was experimentally demonstrated in principle as the followings. It employed the target consisting of a polystyrene (PS) shell, a fill tube and a conical laser guide. At first, liquid fuel was fed into the shell and existed around the conical laser guide because the surface tension of the fuel must cause it. Then, it was solidified. The laser light provided a heat source to the conical laser guide so that the solid fuel was moved to the other interior of the shell. This process resulted in missing solid fuel around the conical laser guide. To fill the vacant space, liquid fuel was added as temperature was raised to the melting point. After the liquid fuel addition, temperature was lowered to the ...
A total of 86 experimental fuel pins with various fuel, liner, and cladding candidate materials have been irradiated in the Experimental Breeder Reactor-II (EBR-II) and the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) reactor as part of the SP-100 fuel pin irradiation testing program. Postirradiation examination results from these fuel pin are key in establishing performance correlations and demonstrating the lifetime and safety of the reactor fuel system. This paper provides a brief description of the in-reactor fuel pin tests and presents the most recent irradiation data on the performance of wrought rhenium (Re) liner material and high density UN fuel at goal burnup of 6 atom percent (at. %). It also provides an overview of the significant variety of other fuel/liner/cladding combinations which were irradiated as part of this ...
Fuel elements used in the ORR whole-core LEU fuel demonstration have been gamma-scanned to determine axial distributions of UZLa and TXCs fission product activities. This data has been analyzed to determine cycle-averaged fuel element powers, residual STVU masses, and burnups of discharged fuel elements. Methods used to analyze the data are discussed and results are presented for the LEU fuel elements. Measured and calculates fuel element powers agree to within 5%, residual STVU masses to within 2%, and burnups to within 3%. These results are somewhat preliminary and await improved burnup calculations and independent calibration data to be based on the destructive analyses of a number of irradiated fuel elements. 4 refs., 7 figs., 3 tabs.
Development testing has been conducted by Rockwell Hanford Operations (Rockwell) with simulated Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) Reactor fuel and unirradiated N-Reactor fuel, to identify the various problems associated with rotary shearing these fuels. This report discusses the results of tests segmenting FFTF and N-Reactor fuels using electrically driven slow-speed rotary shredders. From these tests, it has been determined that slow-speed rotary shredding of both fuels can be accomplished. Final equipment arrangements and operating parameters have been established for definitive design of the FFTF Rotary Shear. Development testing is continuing on the N-fuel rotary shear. However, it has been established that two-stage shearing is necessary and the outer N-fuel elements pose few problems, while the smaller inner elements have created numerous ...
This paper gives details of the development of the Wartsila 32DF duel-fuel lean-burn engine that can burn liquid or gaseous fuels, and reports on the installation of four of the engines in Turkey. The combustion process, and the design of the gas admission, pilot fuel, cylinder control, air-fuel control, and engine control and monitoring systems are described. The advantages of the engine are discussed.
Selected papers from the conference are presented under seven sections covering: an overview of the environmental and health implications of low-grade fuel use; fuel resources and recovery; exploitation of peat and wood as a fuel; oil shale resources, processing and use; technological approaches to the reduction of environmental impacts associated with oil shale processing and use; technological approaches to reducing the environmental impacts of low-grade coal use; and environmentally sound technical options for low-grade fuel use.
Described herein is a system for the co-generation of hydrogen gas and electricity, wherein the proportion of hydrogen to electricity can be adjusted from 0% to 100%. The system integrates fuel cell technology for power generation with fuel-assisted steam-electrolysis. A hydrocarbon fuel, a reformed hydrocarbon fuel, or a partially reformed hydrocarbon fuel can be fed into the system.
The fuel management study on 18-months fuel cycle project is introduced for Daya Bay Nuclear Power Station. Station from the selection of the objective of fuel management for 18-months cycle, the method used and the analysis done are explained in detail to reach the final loading pattern chosen
The study examined the possibility for fuel ignition by spark discharge caused by induction effects under high voltage transmission lines. Theoretical background information on capacitive spark discharges and fuel ignition processes is given. Laboratory experiments were conducted to test the dependence of fuel ignition on three parameters: impedance in discharge path, multiple discharges, and larger electrode shapes. The results of these tests are discussed in terms of fuel ignition possibilities under high voltage transmission lines.
The objective of this study was to analyze the industrial demand for energy in seven Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries with particular emphasis on fuel substitution between oil, natural gas, coal, and electricity. Changing fuel demand also results from economic growth, changes in industrial structure, and changes in the energy intensity of industrial output. A historical analysis of these factors and fuel substitution is undertaken for industry as an aggregate, and for 12 specific industries. The major results of the historical analysis are: (1) fuel use changes are a result of fuel switching, changing energy intensity, changing industrial structure, and economic growth; (2) fuel substitutability depends upon fuel use. The three fossil fuels are substitutes in the industrial heat ...
The main aspects of the present WWER-440 reactors spent fuel management are described in the paper. Experimental results of fuel integrity studies which are carried out under conditions of a long-term storage are also presented. (author). 5 refs, 5 figs.
Combustion noise, knock and ignition limits data are measured and presented for a dual fuel engine running on dual fuels of Diesel and three gaseous fuels separately. The gaseous fuels used are liquefied petroleum gas, pure methane and compressed natural gas mixture. The maximum pressure rise rate during combustion is presented as a measure of combustion noise, and the knocking and ignition limits are presented as torque output at the onset of knocking and ignition failure. Experimental investigation on the dual fuel engine revealed the noise generated from combustion, knocking and ignition limits for all gases at different design and operating conditions. A Ricardo E6 Diesel version engine is converted to run on dual fuel of Diesel and the tested gaseous fuel and is used throughout the work. The engine is fully computerized, and the ...
One of the key features of ANL's Integral Fast Reactor (IFR) concept is a close-coupled fuel cycle. The proposed fuel cycle is similar to that demonstrated over the first five to six years of operation of EBR-II, when a fuel cycle facility adjacent to EBR-II was operated to reprocess and refabricate rapidly fuel discharged from the EBR-II. Locating the IFR and its fuel cycle facility on the same site makes the IFR a self-contained system. Because the reactor fuel and the uranium blanket are metals, pyrometallurgical processes (shortned to ''pyroprocesses'') have been chosen. The objectives of the IFR processes for the reactor fuel and blanket materials are to (1) recover fissionable materials in high yield; (2) remove fission products adequately from the reactor fuel, e.g., a ...
To perform the localization project of WOLSUNG reactor fuel, mass-production system of irradiation-stable and sound fuel pellet must be established. The following subjects have been carried out to set up CANDU fuel fabrication process for continuous produ...
Approximately 62,000 lbs Fuel Load: 58,000 lbs. Type Fuel: JP4, JP5, JP8, JET A, JET A-1, JET B Standard Fuel Burn: 4500 - 6000 lbs/hr depending on altitude and airspeed Maximum...
In the interests of fuel economy in motor vehicles, this article discusses the importance of waste heat recovery and then goes on the explore options such as hybrid electric cars, thermal engines with low loss platforms, pure electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles. (UK)
This book contains papers relating to the 1990 Future Transportation Technology Conference and Exposition. Included are the following papers; Examination of rich mixtures operation of a dual fuel engine, A hybrid natural gas vehicles, Performance analysis of a spark ignited engine with ETBE as a blending agent.
Diesel engines operating on gaseous fuels are commonly known as dual-fuel engines. In the present work, a single-cylinder, compression ignition, indirect injection research (Ricardo E6) engine has been installed at United Arab Emirates University for investigation of the exhaust emissions when the engine is operating as a dual-fuel engine. The influence of changes in major operating and design parameters, such as the concentration of gaseous fuel in the cylinder charge, pilot fuel quantity, injection timing and intake temperature, on the production of exhaust emissions was investigated. Diesel fuel was used as the pilot fuel, while methane or propane was used as the main fuel which was inducted in the intake manifold and mixed with the intake air. The experimental investigations showed that the poor emissions at light ...
The electrometallurgical treatment process described in this paper builds on our experience in treating spent fuel from the Experimental Breeder Reactor (EBR-II). The work is also to some degree, a spin-off from applying electrometallurgical treatment to spent fuel from the Hanford single pass reactors (SPRs) and fuel and flush salt from the Molten Salt Reactor Experiment (MSRE) in treating EBR-II fuel, we recover the actinides from a uranium-zirconium fuel by electrorefining the uranium out of the chopped fuel. With SPR fuel, uranium is electrorefined out of the aluminum cladding. Both of these processes are conducted in a LiCl-KCl molten-salt electrolyte. In the case of the MSRE, which used a fluoride salt-based fuel, uranium in this salt is recovered through a series of electrochemical reductions. Recovering ...
This publication provides statistical data on net generation, fuel consumption, fossil fuel stocks, electricity sales, revenue, and average revenue per kilowatthour of electricity sold. Data on fossil fuel stocks and costs are also included.
MWo = average molecular weight of fuel est. 105 g/mole for gasoline est. 165 g/mole for Jet fuel est. 230 g/mole for diesel fuel MWX = molecular weight of selected chemical...
This book contains 8 papers including the topics of: Spray and Flame Structure in Diesel Combustion; Experimental and Theoretical Investigations of Diesel Injection Transients; Lead-Fuel Governor System - Dual-Fuel Engine; Fuel Spray Modeling in Swirling Flows.
The Secure Automated Fabrication (SAF) line, an automated and remotely controlled manufacturing process, is scheduled for startup in 1987 and will produce mixed uranium/plutonium oxide fuel pins for the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF). The application of robotics in the fuel fabrication and supporting operations is described.
The Wolsung-type nuclear fuel localization project carried out since 1981 finally reached to a full-fledged phase in 1987. We successfully produced and timely delivered a yearly demand of nuclear fuel for Wolsung unit 1. In this report we studied and summ...
...f) Are there additional requirements that must be met? (1) A person subject to this section must: (i) For fuel oils and liquid fuels, obtain, record, and keep records of the percent sulfur by weight from the vendor for each...
...specifications of ASTM Grade 1 or Grade 2 fuel oils in ASTM Method D396-04, Standard Specification for Fuel Oils (incorporated by reference, see...ASTM Grade 4, Grade 5, or Grade 6 fuel oils in ASTM Method D396-04,...
The 12. Annual European Fuels Conference has enabled refiners and fuel developers on March 2011 (8-11). In this work, the lecturers draw the new tendencies and difficulties at which the refining industry will be confronted with. (O.M.)
The Fact Finding Committee on 'Future Nuclear Power Policy' established by the 8th German Federal Parliament in its report of June 1980 among other items published the recommendation to commission a 'risk oriented analysis' of the SNR-300 in order to enable a pragmatic comparison to be made of the safety of the German prototype fast breeder reactor and a modern light water reactor (a Biblis B PWR). The Federal Minister for Research and Technology in August 1981 officially commissioned the Gesellschaft fuer Reaktorsicherheit (GRS) to conduct the study. Following a recommendation by the Fact Finding Committee, additional studies were performed also by a group of opponents of the breeder reactor. On the instigation of the group of opponents the delivery date of the study was altered several times and finally set at April 30, 1982. GRS submitted its report by this deadline. However, a joint report by the two groups could not be compiled, as had been requested by the ...
Metal cations of arsenic, antimony, tin, manganese, zinc, cadmium, indium, and thallium have been evaluated in a preliminary way as possible3 inhibitors for controlling denting corrision observed in steam generators used with pressurized water reactors (PWR). The rationale for this approach was based upon the well-known inhibition effects of metal cations on corrosion rates in electrolyte/metal systems. A review of corrosion inhibition by metal cations (H. Leidheiser, Jr., Corrosion 36, 339 (1982)) has identified eleven inhibition mechanisms. The major test methods used for this evaluation were: (1) Isothermal capsule tests of carbon/steel/Inconel 600 tube bulging rates at temperatures up to 288/sup 0/C in seawater/copper-nickel chloride bulge-accelerating solutions. (2) Immersion weight-loss tests of steel coupled to Inconel 600 in boiling (102/sup 0/C) 3% sodium chloride solutions. In addition, electrochemical measuremens and surface analyses were performed. The ...
The NUclear Power Engineering Corporation (NUPEC) has developed IMPACT-SAMPSON code to analyze integral behavior of light water nuclear power plants under severe accident conditions. IMPACT-SAMPSON's distinguishing features include interconnected hierarchical modules and mechanistic models covering a wide spectrum of scenarios ranging from normal operation to severe accident events, and high-speed simulation on parallel processing computers. The integral plant behaviors of typical PWR and BWR under severe accident conditions have been analyzed with the IMPACT-SAMPSON code. The PWR plant analyzed was the three-loop, steel-dry containment type with 2,440 MWt. The AE accident scenario was supposed, that is, LOCA by 6-inch hot leg failure followed by accumulated water injection, but no ECCS and containment spray activation. The BWR plant analyzed was the 3,293 MWt BWR-5, Mark-II containment type. The TQUV accident scenario was supposed, ...
It is one of the most important subjects to estimate the flow-related stability of the heat exchanger tubes. A large scale model steam generator has been developed to verify the stability of the tubes in the Japanese PWR steam generators for the two-phase flow-induced vibration and to accumulate related technical data of thermal-hydraulic and flow-induced vibration of U-bend tube bundle. The model steam generator has 230 U-bend tubes of 46 different radius and 5 columns for each of practical diameter and material, and the anti vibration bars are inserted into each spacing between tube arrays. The freon R123 has been used as the secondary side fluid in stead of water-steam two-phase. In the test, void fraction and interfacial velocities in U-bend and straight tube-bundle are measured with bi-optical probes, and vibration responses of some selected tubes are measured with strain gauges and accelerators. It is verified that the U-bend tubes are stable when they are ...
Denting studies have been undertaken in order to assess the influence of the most important parameters which could initiate corrosion of the carbon steel occurring in the tube-tube support plate crevices of some PWR steam generators. Tests have been carried out in model boilers where feedwater was polluted with sea or river water. Specific effects of chloride or sulfate and influence of oxygen content, magnetite addition and pH value were investigated. In magnetite prepacked crevices, denting is obtained within 1000 hrs for seawater pollution of 0.3 ppm chloride at the blowdown. In neutral chloride or in river water, denting is observed only with oxygen addition. Denting prevention is effective in the case of an on-line addition of phosphate, boric acid, or calcium hydroxide. For denting stopping, boric acid or calcium hydroxide is efficient even with a high seawater pollution. Soaks cannot stop denting if they are not followed by an on-line treatment (boric acid, ...
Denting studies have been undertaken in order to assess the influence of the most important parameters which could initiate corrosion of the carbon-steel occurring in the tube-tube support plate crevices of some PWR steam generators. Tests have been carried out in model boilers, feedwater being polluted with sea or river water. Specific effect of chloride or sulfate and influence of oxygen content, magnetite addition and pH value were investigated. In magnetite prepacked crevices, denting is obtained within 1000 hours for sea-water pollution of 0.3 ppm chloride at the blowdown. In neutral chloride or in river water denting is observed only with oxygen addition. Denting prevention is effective in the case of an on-line addition of phosphate, boric acid or calcium hydroxide. For denting stopping, boric acid or calcium hydroxide is efficient even with a high sea-water pollution. Soaks cannot stop denting if they are not followed by an on-line treatment (boric acid, ...
This project evaluated the feasibility of using a low-concentration (approx. 0.5 wt %) chemical cleaning process to remove corrosion product deposits from steam generator surfaces and magnetite from tube-to-support plate crevices of PWR steam generators. The primary objective was to develop a dilute process that could be safely applied at scheduled intervals, such as during normal refueling outages, to maintain a clean operating condition in the steam generator. The dilute chemical cleaning process developed in this project was demonstrated successfully on two model generators which were operated on faulted chemistry by DOE/CRC at Commonwealth's State Line Facility. Unit 5 was cleaned after 48 days of operation with 1% seawater fouling, and Unit 6 was cleaned after 112 days of operations with Lake Michigan water. This report describes work leading to the model generator cleaning demonstrations and provides details of the cleaning operation for each model ...
This project evaluated the feasibility of using a low-concentration (approx. 0.5 wt %) chemical cleaning process to remove corrosion product deposits from steam generator surfaces and magnetite from tube-to-support plate crevices of PWR steam generators. The primary objective was to develop a dilute process that could be safely applied at scheduled intervals, such as during normal refueling outages, to maintain a clean operating condition in the steam generator. The dilute chemical cleaning process developed in this project was demonstrated successfully on two model generators which were operated on faulted chemistry by DOE/CRC at Commonwealth's State Line Facility. Unit 5 was cleaned after 48 days of operation with 1% seawater fouling, and Unit 6 was cleaned after 112 days of operations with Lake Michigan water. This report describes work leading to the model generator cleaning demonstrations and provides details of the cleaning operation for each model steam ...
In this study, the adoptable essential technologies and reference design concept of the advanced reactor were developed and related basic experiments were performed. (1) Once-through Helical Steam Generator: a performance analysis computer code for heli-coiled steam generator was developed for thermal sizing of steam generator and determination of thermal-hydraulic parameters. (2) Self-pressurizing pressurizer : a performance analysis computer code for cold pressurizer was developed. (3) Control rod drive mechanism for fine control : type and function were surveyed. (4) CHF in passive PWR condition : development of the prediction model bundle CHF by introducing the correction factor from the data base. (5) Passive cooling concepts for concrete containment systems: development of the PCCS heat transfer coefficient. (6) Steam injector concepts: analysis and experiment were conducted. (7) Fluidic diode concepts : analysis and experiment were conducted. (8) Wet thermal ...
The five thermal-hydraulic concepts chosen for advanced PWR have been studied as follows: (1) Critical Heat Flux: Review of previous works, analysis of parametric trends, analysis of transient CHF characteristics, extension of the CHF date bank, survey and assessment of correlations, design of a intermediate-pressure CHF test loop have been performed. (2) Passive Cooling Concepts for Concrete Containment system: Review of condensation phenomena with noncondensable gases, selection of a promising concept (i.e., use of external condensers), design of test loop according to scaling laws have been accomplished. and computer programs based on the control-volume approach, and the conceptual design of test loop have been accomplished. (4) Fluidic Diode Concepts: Review of previous applications of the concept, analysis major parameters affecting the performance, development of a computational code, and conceptual investigation of the verification test loop have been ...
A 4-loop Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) primary coolant system has been analysed for the postulated Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA) event in order to derive peak dynamic loads for qualifying the design of equipment supports and pipe whip restraints. Pipe whip restraints as well as pipe and equipment supports are nonlinear by nature because of the presence of gaps and the different directional stiffnesses arising from snubber, steelwork and geometric and material interaction at the concrete to steel embedment. The different structural idealisations for the supports and restraints have an influence on the dynamic response of the structure. In the first of the two part paper a range of idealisation models for the Steam Generator and Reactor Coolant Pump vertical columns ranging from elastic stiffnesses to bilinear stiffnesses with or without preload were examined. Due to both structural and loading complexity, the behaviour of these supports were analysed by the ...
Thermal-hydraulics analysis can be used to determine location and magnitude of leaks inside a pressurized water reactor (PWR) containment, as required by plant technical specifications. The major advantage of this detection method is that it minimizes radiation exposure of maintenance personnel because most of the leak detection process is performed from the control room outside the containment. In addition, such a program allows for the elimination of pipe whip restraints and jet impingement shields, eliminating costs for maintenance of these supports and shields in older plants and lowering construction costs for new plants. Previously, only simple single-node containment models were used for determining leakage magnitude. This paper presents a more sophisticated multinode approach for determining the magnitude and location. The resulting sensitivities to leak can be programmed into the plant's computer system. In this way, the plant's computer ...
On February 1, 1984, the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission issued Generic Letter 84-04 on the subject of postulated pipe breaks in pressurized water reactor (PWR) primary coolant loops, opening the way for pipe-whip restraint exemptions. The letter substitutes the leak-before-break (LBB) criteria for the double-ended guillotine break regarding PWR primary reactor coolant system (RCS) piping and asymmetric blowdown loads. The LBB criterion refers to the fact that a piping flaw will leak before it breaks. The current requirement to provide pipe-whip restraints is applied within the plant to all high-energy piping with a potential for damaging structures, systems, and components essential to safe reactor shutdown. This includes primary RCS piping 30 in. and larger as well as smaller piping systems. A study was performed to evaluate the applicability of the LBB criteria proposed in NUREG-1061 to the latter set. The costs and benefits of this kind of ...
The development of KNGR (Korean Next Generation Reactor) is now in progress. KAERI is developing KNGR which is a advanced active PWR (pressurized water reactor) and 1350 MW electric capacities and is by based on UCN(Ulchin) 3 and 4 nuclear power plant which is a Korean standard PWR. In this report, the PZR (pressurizer) and Related System Design Features for KNGR which include PZR volume, PPCS (pressurizer safety valve)were analyzed. First, the Design Parameters between KNGR compared to UCH 3 and 4 were compared, and second, advanced design features of KNGR compared to UCN 3 and 4 were analyzed. After the present analysis, it has been concluded that the safety margins for the PZR level and pressure of KNGR were more increased by the larger PZR volume than those of UCN 3 and 4, for PZR minimum water level at reactor/turbine trip and PZR maximum pressure at LOCV(loss of condenser vacuum) of KNGR were higher and lower, respectively than those of ...
The primary scope of this study is to establish the analysis technology for the advanced reactor designed on the basis of the passive and inherent safety concepts. This study is extended to the application of these technology to the safety analysis of the passive reactor. The study was performed for the small and medium sized reactor and the large sized reactor by focusing on the development of the analysis technology for the passive components. Among the identified concepts the once-through steam generator, the natural circulation of the integral reactor, heat pipe for containment cooling, and hydraulic valve were selected as the high priority items to be developed and the related studies are being performed for these items. For the large sized passive reactor, the study plans to extend the applicability of the best estimate computer code RELAP5/MOD3 which is widely used for the safety analyses of the reactor system. The improvement and supplementation study of the analysis modeling ...
The term 'Post-CHF' was generally used in the two-phase flow regime in tube flow occurring downstream of the CHF. It has various other names such as dispersed flow, liquid-deficient flow, mist flow and film boiling because the two-phase regime is characterized by a continuous vapor phase with discrete liquid drops and a non-wetted heated surface. The regime has been adopted in a lot of applications including nuclear power plants, fossil power plants, steam generators, refrigeration systems and spray cooling, In particular, this regime has a considerable importance in the areas of light water reactor(LWR) accident analysis (off-normal operating conditions) and design in heat exchangers operating in the once-through mode where subcooled liquid enters the exchanger and superheated vapor exits. Recently, innovative PWRs adopt very high power density increases and so require increased safety margins. For instance, advanced PWRs would be going to use a new-type of spacer ...
The term 'Post-CHF' was generally used in the two-phase flow regime in tube flow occurring downstream of the CHF. It has various other names such as dispersed flow, liquid-deficient flow, mist flow and film boiling because the two-phase regime is characterized by a continuous vapor phase with discrete liquid drops and a non-wetted heated surface. The regime has been adopted in a lot of applications including nuclear power plants, fossil power plants, steam generators, refrigeration systems and spray cooling, In particular, this regime has a considerable importance in the areas of light water reactor(LWR) accident analysis (off-normal operating conditions) and design in heat exchangers operating in the once-through mode where subcooled liquid enters the exchanger and superheated vapor exits. Recently, innovative PWRs adopt very high power density increases and so require increased safety margins. For instance, advanced PWRs would be going to use a new-type of spacer grid and mixing ...
Apparatus and a method of introducing a primary fuel, which may be a coal water slurry, and a high combustion auxiliary fuel, which may be a conventional diesel oil, into an internal combustion diesel engine comprises detecting the load conditions of the engine, determining the amount of time prior to the top dead center position of the piston to inject the main fuel into the combustion chamber, and determining the relationship of the timing of the injection of the auxiliary fuel into the combustion chamber to achieve a predetermined specific fuel consumption, a predetermined combustion efficiency, and a predetermined peak cylinder firing pressure. 19 figures.
Effects of the rapid early-in-life expansion of metal fuel were measured in an irradiation experiment in the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF). This important performance/design information was obtainable through the unique combination of a dimensionally stable FFTF oxide core and the calibrated proximity instrumentation associated with the test. These results delineate the time dependence of metal-fuel swelling and provide quantitative estimates of the magnitude of axial fuel swelling in full-length metal-fuel assemblies. Final posttest examination results will define actual fuel column growth levels.
FuelCell Energy in Connecticut has sold 4.5 MW worth of power plants to California renewable energy company BioFuelsFuel Cells, part of New Energy Capital and BioFuels Energy. Three molten carbonate fuel cell power plants - a 2.8 MW DFC3000 unit, a 1.4 MW DFC1500 system, and a 300 kW DFC300 unit - will be installed at three locations in the San Diego area, and utilize purified biogas from the Point Loma wastewater treatment plant as their primary fuel source.
Petroleum resources are finite and, therefore, search for their alternative non-petroleum fuels for internal combustion engines is continuing all over the world. Moreover gases emitted by petroleum fuel driven vehicles have an adverse effect on the environment and human health. There is universal acceptance of the need to reduce such emissions. Towards this, scientists have proposed various solutions for diesel engines, one of which is the use of gaseous fuels as a supplement for liquid diesel fuel. These engines, which use conventional diesel fuel and gaseous fuel, are referred to as 'dual-fuel engines'. Natural gas and bio-derived gas appear more attractive alternative fuels for dual-fuel engines in view of their friendly environmental nature. In the gas-fumigated ...
A fuel cycle economic analysis was performed on four fuel cycles to provide a baseline for initial cost comparison using the Gen IV Economic Modeling Work Group G4 ECON spreadsheet model, Decision Programming Language software, the 2006 Advanced Fuel Cycle Cost Basis report, industry cost data, international papers, the nuclear power related cost study from MIT, Harvard, and the University of Chicago. The analysis developed and compared the fuel cycle cost component of the total cost of energy for a wide range of fuel cycles including: once through, thermal with fast recycle, continuous fast recycle, and thermal recycle.
Forced vibration experiment has been conducted for the reactor building of Sendai Unit 1 nuclear power plant. The beam vibrational behaviors of the outer shielding building and the internal concrete structure have been observed by using a 50 tf vibration for low frequency region, and a 10 tf vibration for high frequency region, respectively. The outline of the experimental methods, the data handling system and the major results of experiment are described. The experimental results were simulated by an analytical model. The proper vibrational frequency and the vibration modes obtained by the analysis were compared with those obtained by the experiment. By these comparisons, the adequacy of the analytical method employed for the design was confirmed.
The lateral bearing device is made of 7 lateral supports, each positioned to allow the displacement of the steam generator due to thermal or seismic effects. Each support includes a buffer plate that can be positioned on the steam generator using a position control assembly. This control assembly consists of a screw jack arrangement where the nut is fastened via an energy absorbing layer to a footplate that is fixed to the concrete wall of the steam generator enclosure. 4 figs.
Design methods and parameters are described which are addressed when considering consequences of a postulated pipe rupture event in a nuclear plant design. Parameters discussed are break opening time and size, resultant blowdown characteristics of the effluent from the broken pipe, jet reaction and impingement loading, pipe motion, and pipe impact loading on steel and concrete structures. The impact the various parameters have on overall plant designs and conservatisms inherent in each consideration are evaluated in a qualitative nature. Finally, recommendations are provided for each parameter discussed for further evaluation and study.
The present process allows to eliminate the corrosion products formed on the tube plates and in the interstices of plate-tube crosspieces of a PWR steam generator in order to avoid a corrosion phenomenon which may cause denting by presence of oxides. The process consists in applying on these oxides at about 50-100 degrees, an aqueous solution containing 6-8% of gluconic acid, 3-5% of citric acid, about 0.5% of a corrosion inhibitor and ammonia until a pH of 3-9.5 is obtained.
The report deals with: (1) two-phase flow regime transitions, (2) liquid entrainment in break flow, (3) vapor pull-through, and (4) CCFL in horizontal ducts. The first three processes influence the mass flow through the break, whereas the fourth one imposes a limit on liquid flow from the steam generator through the hot leg break into the core. Correlations available in the literature which deal with these processes are presented and applied to a hot leg of a PWR, LOFT and Semiscale for quantitative estimates, as well as for determining the scale distortion in the latter two facilities.
This paper presents a numerical simulation with the EUROPLEXUS fast dynamics software of a pipe whipping phenomenon occurring in the thermal hydraulic conditions of a loss of coolant accident in a PWR primary circuit. Different physical phenomena take place simultaneously during the rupture and the whipping of the pipe such as plasticity, contact, large displacements, two-phase flow regime and fluid structure interaction. Two kinds of numerical models - a simplified pipeline model and a mixed 1D/3D model - are considered and compared throughout modelling and computation. Numerical results are compared with experimental data belonging to the Aquitaine II test campaign.
In PWR steam-generators, the crevice between tube and tube-support plate tends to fill with porous deposits during operation and acts as a concentration site for chemicals in the boiler water, which may lead to corrosion of the tube and tube-support-plate. The rate of concentration, the magnitude of the concentration factor and the rate of release of solute when conditions change are important parameters for devising strategies to minimize corrosion. Values of these parameters for salt concentration have therefore been measured in a laboratory simulation of the crevice and are used to formulate a model of the concentrating process.
A safety analysis code, named as SPACE, for a pressurized water reactor is under development to obtain a licensing to be used for the PWR design and to hold entire proprietary rights. The task of KAERI is to develop the physical models and correlations which are required to solve the field equations. It can be divided into four parts; i) flow regime determination, ii) wall heat transfer, iii) wall and interfacial friction, iv) interfacial heat and mass transfer. This paper will describe the process to develop the models for the two-phase flow regime maps in the horizontal and vertical pipes.
A safety analysis code, named as SPACE, for a pressurized water reactor is under development to obtain a licensing to be used for the PWR design and to hold entire proprietary rights. The task of KAERI is to develop the physical models and correlations which are required to solve the field equations. It can be divided into four parts; i) flow regime determination, ii) wall heat transfer, iii) wall and interfacial friction, iv) interfacial heat and mass transfer. This paper will describe the process to develop the models for the two-phase flow regime maps in the horizontal and vertical pipes.
In the tests, the effects of the overhang length on the pipe whip behavior of the pipe-restraints system were studied by measuring the strains and deformations of the test pipe and restraints, and the restraints forces. The equation for predicting the maximum strain at the outer surface of the pipe was derived using a static equilibrium condition. The calculated maximum strains at the outer surface of the pipe agree fairly well with experimental data. The dynamic response analysis of the pipe-restraints system was conducted by the finite element program ADINA. The applicability of the ADINA program to the pipe whip analysis is made clear through this analysis.
The importance that must be attached to the phenomenon of stress corrosion cracking of austenitic alloys is emphasized. The relation between chemical composition of various alloys and their sensitivity to cracking is shown with particular reference to the behaviour of Alloy 800. The different effects of alkaline anc chloride environments are discussed. Studies are reported of the general corrosion of Alloy 800 and other alloys in an environment representative of the primary coolant of PWR reactors; and of the behaviour of various alloys (including Alloy 800) in the conditions envisaged for their use for steam generators with superheat up to about 550 deg.C. (U.K.).
Steam generators in PWR plants have been subject to denting corrosion as a result of nonprotective magnetite forming on the carbon steel support plate causing the voluminous corrosion product that eventually crimps (dents) the heat transfer tube at the support plate interface. This project was designed to determine the causes of denting and the usefulness of water chemistry changes meant to arrest denting. This volume of the final report describes laboratory research on the correlation of water chemistry, superheat, and oxygen ingress with denting in steam generators.
Existing applications of Alloy 800 are summarized, with particular reference to its use in various types of reactor. The need for a co-ordinated research and development programme is stressed, and the variables to be explored are outlined. The papers relating to the problem of corrosion and cracking in water and steam are considered. the strength and ductility of Alloy 800 is considered. Finally, sections of the summary deal with the use of Alloy 800 for (a) sodium cooled fast reactor boiler tubes; (b) the high temperature gas cooled reactor; and (c) PWR steam generator tubes. (U.K.).
The stability-enchancing two-step (SETS) method has been used successfully in the Transient Reactor Analysis Code (TRAC) for several years. The method consists of a basic semi-implicit step combined with a stabilizer step that, taken together, eliminate the material Courant stability limit associated with standard semi-implicit numerical methods. This approach toward stability requires significantly fewer computational operations than a fully implicit method, but currently maintains the first-order accuracy in space and time of its semi-implicit predecessors.
Although there is service experience of Alloy 800 as tubing for superheaters in conventional and nuclear (HTR) power stations and in PWR heat exchangers, there is no corresponding service experience in sodium-cooled fast reactor steam generators. However, some limited experimental studies have been made of corrosion behaviour, and of possible structure modifications and effects on mechanical properties which occur during exposure of this material to a high temperature sodium environment, and these are summarised in the paper. It is concluded that further work needs to be done before Alloy 800 can be confidently endorsed for use as tubing in fast reactor steam generators. (author).
the nozzle ring, the collector cup, and the impeller fuel-distribution ... sity of the vaned collector cup and the fuel-transfer passages ..... closure ...
pletely new PW fuel cell model had to be developed for CINDA. Several ...... following linear equation, which is used in the SINDA fuel cell model: ...
or third generation fuels. These are biofuels that can directly substitute for gasoline, jet fuel, and diesel. Today more than 9 billion gallons of biofuels are produced annually...
A series of six transient tests was performed on FFTF irradiated fuel pins to demonstrate their transient performance capability. The tests were performed in the TREAT reactor using sodium loops and instrumented test trains. The TEMECH computer code was used to design overpower transients which would simulate FFTF fuel pin thermal conditions during slow and fast unprotected transients. Some tests were run to substantial overpower levels but terminated prior to fuel pin failure, while other tests were intentionally extended to fuel failure to establish failure thresholds and characteristics. Post-test examination data provided significant cladding strain and fuel melting information used for performance code calibration and validation. These data showed that cladding damage caused by fuel melting is related to the steady state condition of the ...
... TITLE (Include Security Classification) Sorption of Selected Volatile Organic Constituents of Jet Fuels and Solvents on Natural Sorbents from Gas ...
Development of Scientific Foundations of the Technology of the Metal Matrix Packing of Leaky Unreprocessible Spent Nuclear Fuel of Different Purpose Reactors for a Long-term Environmentally Safe Storage.
In evaluating commercialization prospects for natural gas fuelled vehicles, this paper compares the performance and emission quality of these innovative vehicles with those using conventional fuels - gasoline and diesel fuels. Assessments are made of the state-of-the-art of current technology relative to fuel storage, air/fuel mixture preparation, in cylinder combustion processes and pollution control. The analysis evidences that while natural gas is an excellent fuel for spark ignition engines, in transport applications its use is hampered by large storage volume requirements and weight. Moreover, the air/fuel mixture preparation, combustion process and exhaust-gas cleaning require a greater research and development effort to make this alternative fuel economically and environmentally competitive with conventional ...
In Korea, a manufacturing process for the fabrication of CANDU 37-element fuel bundles was successfully developed between 1981 and 1986. At Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI), more than 20,000 fuel bundles were produced up to May 1992, for use in Wolsung-1 power reactor. At the time of the conference, about 15,000 of these fuel bundles had been irradiated in Wolsung-1, and almost all of them had performed well. From 1995, the commercial fuel production program will be transferred to Korea Nuclear Fuel Company, which is building a plant with a capacity of 400 tons of uranium per year. So-called CANFLEX fuel, more appropriate to advanced fuel cycles, is being developed jointly by AECL and KAERI. The paper includes a listing of the current status of the Republic of Korea's nuclear power plants, with planning projections up to the ...
The performance of the gaseous fuel supply and its influence on hydrocarbon (HC) emissions of dual-fuel engines have been investigated. A new design of manifold respirators with mixers is also presented in the paper. The design of the gaseous fuel supply system has a great influence on HC emissions in the dual-fuel engine at light load. The problem of scavenging is discussed and solved by using the manifold respirators in the dual-fuel engine. It performs the function of retarding the gaseous fuel entry timing from the moment of intake valve opening, and its delaying effects have been measured and tested. Experimental results show that the manifold respirator gives the best performance in reducing HC emissions compared with a common pipe mixer and a respirator with bo miser. In addition, the mixing effects are sensitive to the mixer configuration. (Author)
This poster, submitted for the CU Energy Initiative/NREL Symposium on October 3, discusses the impacts of renewable fuel and electricity standards on state economies.
Investigation of the Macrokinetics and Energy of Self-Oscillatory Processes of Gasless Combustion of Solid Fuel Mixtures Proposed for the Design of Short-Term Thermal and Electrical Sources
A method is described for controlling fuel injection in a diesel engine having a fuel injection nozzle, comprising the steps of: detecting an idling state of the diesel engine and pressure in a combustion chamber; obtaining a pressure increment rate from the pressure detected by the detecting step; selecting a valve opening pressure of the fuel injection nozzle at a relatively low level when the idling state is detected by the detecting step, thereby setting a two peaks characteristics of a fuel injection rate; and controlling the fuel injection nozzle in response to the pressure increment rate so that the pressure increment rate in the combustion chamber is maintained within a predetermined value by changing a fuel injection quantity of a pilot injection from the fuel injection nozzle.
Apparatus and method are described for the vaporization of liquid fuel oils to produce a gaseous mixture suitable for burning in a burner normally designed for operation utilizing natural gas.
activities, including the combustion of diesel fuel in heavy-duty vehicles and jet fuel in aircrafts. Current details on emissions from the transportation and other...
of the familiar fire triangle, namely, fuel, ignition, and oxygen. Fuel is minimized ... The third element of the fire triangle, oxygen, is obviously ...
The RECH-1 MTR reactor has been converted from HEU to MEU (45% enrichment) and the decision to a LEU (20% enrichment) conversion was taken some years ago. This LEU conversion decision involved a local fuel development and fabrication based on U{sub 3}Si{sub 2}-Al dispersion fuel, and a fabrication qualification stage that resulted in four fuel elements fully complying with established fabrication standards for this type of fuel. This report-presents relevant points of these four leaders fuel elements fabrication, in particular a fuel plate core homogeneity control development. A summary of the intended in core follow-up studies for the leaders fuel elements is also presented here. (author)
cellulosic biofuel volumes for consumption as transportation fuel, heating oil, or jet fuel in the U.S. in 2011. We also evaluated the production and import potential for...
and used to reduce or replace petroleum-based transportation fuel, heating oil or jet fuel). In addition, this rule includes a new regulatory provision establishing a...
Sep 1, 2011 ... We estimate the avoided fuel treatment cost for 10 ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) stands on the Umatilla National Forest in the Pacific ...
The Coal and Electric Data and Renewables Division; Office of Coal, Nuclear, Electric and Alternate Fuels, Energy Information Administration (EIA), Department of Energy prepares the EPM. This publication provides monthly statistics at the State, Census division, and US levels for net generation, fossil fuel consumption and stocks, quantity and quality of fossil fuels, cost of fossil fuels, electricity sales, revenue, and average revenue per kilowatthour of electricity sold. Data on net generation, fuel consumption, fuel stocks, quantity and cost of fossil fuels are also displayed for the North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC) regions. The EIA publishes statistics in the EPM on net generation by energy source; consumption, stocks, quantity, quality, and cost of fossil fuels; and capability of new generating ...
The Coal and Electric Data and Renewables Division; Office of Coal, Nuclear, Electric and Alternate Fuels, Energy Information Administration (EIA), Department of Energy prepares the EPM. This publication provides monthly statistics at the State, Census division, and U.S. levels for net generation, fossil fuel consumption and stocks, quantity and quality of fossil fuels, cost of fossil fuels, electricity sales, revenue, and average revenue per kilowatthour of electricity sold. Data on net generation, fuel consumption, fuel stocks, quantity and cost of fossil fuels are also displayed for the North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC) regions. The EIA publishes statistics in the EPM on net generation by energy source; consumption, stocks, quantity, quality, and cost of fossil fuels; and capability of new generating ...
of refined petroleum and energy traders have stopped sales of refined product to Iran. Jet fuel suppliers are now refusing to supply jet fuel to Iran Air at most destinations in...
from a military fuel storage facility released about 80,000 gallons of kerosine-based jet fuel. Immediate and extensive recovery measures managed to contain the spill, but...
from a military fuel storage facility released about 80,000 gallons of kerosine-based jet fuel. Immediate and extensive recovery measures managed to contain the spill, but...
Fuel treatments are being implemented on public and private lands across the western United States. Although scientists and managers have an understanding ... ...
May 31, 2011 ... A Theoretical Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Model for System Controls and Stability Design AUTHOR(S): Kopasakis, George; Brinson, Thomas; Credle, ...
Air Show. The exhibit will feature 16 fuel companies showcasing cutting-edge alternative jet fuel technologies. In addition to individual company exhibits, the Showcase will...
Due to the increasingly stricter regulations for deep reduction of fuel sulfur content, development of new deep desulfurization processes for liquid transport fuels has become one of the major challenges to the refining industry and to the production of hydrocarbon fuels for fuel cell applications. The sulfur compounds in the current transport fuels corresponding to the S level of 350-500 ppm account for only about 0.12-0.25 wt % of the fuel. The conventional hydrotreating approaches will need to increase catalyst bed volume at high-temperature and high-pressure conditions for treating 100 % of the whole fuel in order to convert the fuel mass of less than 0.25 wt %. In the present study, we are exploring a novel adsorption process for desulfurization at low temperatures, which can effectively reduce the sulfur content in ...
This article gives an account of the recent development of light water reactors new concepts in the world. Different projects are being studied. The CE80+ from Combustion Engineering (CE) is a 1350 MWe-PWR-type reactor whose primary circuit is confined in a spherical metallic containment. This reactor was certified by NRC (national regulatory commission) in mid-1996. The APWR (advanced pressurized water reactor) is developed by MHI (Mitsubishi heavy industries) in a collaboration with Westinghouse, this PWR-type reactor fitted with 4 loops derived from the SP90 model that was developed by Westinghouse during the eighties. 2 units of ABWR (advanced boiling water reactor) were commissioned in Japan in 1996 and 1997, ABWR was certified by NRC in mid-1996. The BWR90+ is developed by ABB-atom (Sweden) and it represents a cautious advanced version of the BWR75. Passive reactors are reactors that rely only on potential energy (compressed gas, ...
Dual-fuel engines are modified diesel engines burning simultaneously two fuels inside the cylinder: a gaseous one, called the primary fuel and a liquid one, called the pilot fuel. The thermal efficiency of the dual-fuel engine and of the diesel engine are comparable; the level of emissions is lower compared to the diesel one. This article presents a new procedure for the combustion modeling in a LPG-diesel dual-fuel engine. The procedures deals with the ignition delay period and with the rate of heat release inside the cylinder. This procedure is validated using experimental data issued front a collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology from Madras, India. The used engine is a single-cylinder one, air-cooled. The pilot fuel is direct injected inside the cylinder The engine was run at constant load and with different diesel ...
On-board reforming of liquid fuels to hydrogen for use in proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) has been the subject of numerous investigations. In many respects, liquid fuels represent a more attractive method of carrying hydrogen than compressed hydrogen itself, promising greater vehicle range, shorter refilling times, increased safety, and perhaps most importantly, utilization of the current fuel distribution infrastructure. The drawbacks of on-board reformers include their inherent complexity [for example a POX reactor includes: a fuel vaporizer, a reformer, water-gas shift reactors, a preferential oxidation (PROX) unit for CO cleanup, heat exchangers for thermal integration, sensors and controls, etc.], weight, and expense relative to compressed H{sub 2}, as well as degraded fuel cell performance due to the presence of inert ...
The characterization data obtained to date are described for Approved Testing Material (ATM)-103, which is spent fuel from Assembly D101 of pressurized-water reactor Calvert Cliffs, No. 1. This report is one in a series being written by the Materials Characterization Center (MCC) at Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) on spent fuel ATMs. The ATMs are receiving extensive examinations to provide a source of well-characterized spent fuel for testing in the US nuclear waste repository program. ATM-103 consists of 176 full-length irradiated fuel rods with rod-average burnups of about 2600 GJ/kgM (30 MWd/kgM) and less than 1% fission gas release. Characterization data include 1) as-fabricated fuel design, irradiation history, and subsequent storage and handling; 2) isotopic gamma scans; 3) fission gas analyses; 4) ceramography of the fuel and metallography of the ...
The characterization data obtained to data are described for Approved Testing Material 105 (ATM-105), which is spent fuel from Bundles CZ346 and CZ348 of the Cooper Nuclear Power Plant, a boiling-water reactor. This report is one in a series being prepared by the Materials Characterization Center at Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) on spent fuel ATMs. The ATMs are receiving extensive examinations to provide a source of well-characterized spent fuel for testing in the US Department of Energy Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management (OCRWM) Program. ATM-105 consists of 88 full-length irradiated fuel rods with rod-average burnups of about 2400 GJ/kgM (28 MWd/kgM) and expected fission gas release of about 1%. Characterization data include (1) descriptions of as-fabricated fuel design, irradiation history, and subsequent storage and handling; (2) isotopic gamma scans; (3) ...
The super simulator 'SAMPSON' has been developed to show that there exist certain safety margins for light water reactors under hypothetical severe accidents and to investigate realistic measures of accident management by simulating accidents with a parallel computer. Heat-up of fuel rods and release of fission products from fuels are important factors to evaluate source terms. Models for fuel rod heat-up, hydrogen production due to cladding oxidation and cladding deformation and failure in the core region have been developed in the fuel rod heat-up analysis module. Fuel temperatures were calculated by solving the heat conduction equation. The calculated results for fuel temperature and hydrogen production were compared with CORA-13 experiment results. The comparisons showed prediction capability for the heat-up of fuel rods. The fission ...
The DOE is conducting a comprehensive technical analysis of a flexible-fuel transportation system in the United States -- that is, a system that could easily switch between petroleum and another fuel, depending on price and availability. The DOE Alternative Fuels Assessment is aimed directly at questions of energy security and fuel availability, but covers a wide range of issues. This report examines environmental, health, and safety concerns associated with a switch to alternative- and flexible-fuel vehicles. Three potential alternatives to oil-based fuels in the transportation sector are considered: methanol, compressed natural gas (CNG), and electricity. The objective is to describe and discuss qualitatively potential environmental, health, and safety issues that would accompany widespread use of these three fuels. This report presents ...
The results of an experimental investigation of the performance of a small bore engine with a swirl chamber when operating as a dual fuel engine with commercial methane as the gaseous fuel were presented in this paper. The experiment involved using a 3-dimensional computational fluid dynamics model to predict the performance of the engine. A detailed chemical kinetics for the gaseous fuel component, consisting primarily of methane and a reduced detailed chemical kinetics for the diesel fuel while considering the turbulent combustion processes an associated performance of a dual fuel engine with a swirl chamber were incorporated in the simulation. The study experimentally and numerically investigated the effects of changes in the quantities of the liquid fuel pilot and gaseous fuels on the combustion processes, engine performance, cyclic ...
... Another solution, hybrid vehicles, combine two sources of energy (electric and chemical), reducing the global consumption of fossil fuels. Fuel cell vehicles are also one of the most promising technologies for the future, with the capacity to use any fuel - hydrogen being the ideal fuel ecologically, but constrained by infrastructure and storage issues. This book explores all these different solutions for moving our vehicles from fossil ...
The maximum fissile fuel production capacity of three conceptual fusion breeder systems is examined on the basis of the dominant isotopic-balance processes. Compact relationships involving system power output, plasma and energy multiplication, and parameters which describe the fuel cycle and neutron spectrum in the blanket are established. It is found that the fusion breeder, as characterized herein, possesses a substantial fissile fuel breeding capacity the extent of which is governed primarily by the neutron spectrum in the conversion blanket and the break-even condition of the plasma.
The petroleum and petroleum products increase offer a real development opportunity to the alternative fuels. In the context of the french energy accounting increase, the energy independence notion incites the government to promote these new fuels. If the LPG seems declining because of the accident risks fear, the fuel cell is not for today. Near these two sectors what is the future of the biofuels and the natural gas vehicle or the electric cars? (A.L.B.)
The petroleum and petroleum products increase offer a real development opportunity to the alternative fuels. In the context of the french energy accounting increase, the energy independence notion incites the government to promote these new fuels. If the LPG seems declining because of the accident risks fear, the fuel cell is not for today. Near these two sectors what is the future of the biofuels and the natural gas vehicle or the electric cars? (A.L.B.)
A process is claimed for stabilizing fuels during storage by blending therewith oxalic acid derivatives of mono- or bis-succinimides of polyalkylpolyamines. The fuels are stabilized by the presence of 10 to 100 parts per thousand barrels of these oxamides. For particular applications mixtures of monoand bis-succinimides in varying proportions can be used.
Propane and Butane are the main components of LPG as an automotive fuel in the eighties. The worldwide supply of gas will expand, the infrastructure necessary for the transport, storage and distribution of the extra quantities will be supplied. A percentage of 5-10% of the total German gasoline consumption is propable. LPG is an excellent fuel for Otto-cycle-engines, not only from an environmental point of view. Experience gathered with LPG in car engines will be reported on as well as on developments concerning the application field.
We report on measurements of the mixing of fuel oil with air at atmospheric pressure in an industrial premixed gas turbine burner. The concentration of the vaporized fuel oil was measured with laser induced fluorescence. We reason that the fuel oil concentration can be considered with good accuracy as proportional to the fluorescence intensity. (author) 6 fig., 3 refs.
The use of jojoba methyl ester as a pilot fuel was investigated for almost the first time as a way to improve the performance of dual fuel engine running on natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at part load. The dual fuel engine used was Ricardo E6 variable compression diesel engine and it used either compressed natural gas (CNG) or LPG as the main fuel and jojoba methyl ester as a pilot fuel. Diesel fuel was used as a reference fuel for the dual fuel engine results. During the experimental tests, the following have been measured: engine efficiency in terms of specific fuel consumption, brake power output, combustion noise in terms of maximum pressure rise rate and maximum pressure, exhaust emissions in terms of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, knocking limits in terms of maximum torque at ...
HEDL is conducting an experimental transient testing program to evaluate the performance of prototypic Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) fuel pins up to the cladding integrity limit. The relationship is described of the HEDL/TREAT transient overpower test program to the confirmation of FFTF fuel pin design bases via the FFTF fuel pin design procedure.
The modification of a turbocharged diesel engine to a dual-fuel engine using methane as the supplementary fuel has been carried out. The effect of the gaseous fuel in a turbo-charged diesel engine has been investigated by means of a heat release study and a computer program already developed at Leicester Polytechnic. It is used in order to examine the rate of heat released under any operational condition.
Processing concept that increases supply of jet fuel has been developed as part of study on methods for converting coal to hydrogen, methane, and jet fuel. Concept takes advantage of high aromatic content of coal-derived liquids to make high-octane gasoline, instead of destroying aromatics to make jet fuel.
This paper reports new formulas of adiabatic flame temperature. They are functionally expressed in terms of fuel/air ratio, reaction pressure, and the number of carbon atoms in the individual fuel. Among the fuels presently considered for the formulas are members of paraffin, aromatic and olefin families, acetylene, alcohols, and hydrogen.
To reduce fuel fouling in current U.S Navy and Air Force aircraft systems and to provide additional heat sink and thermal stability for future systems, the Air Force is developing an improved JP-8 jet fuel (JP-8 + 100). Two companies (Betz and Mobil) have...
The zinc-air battery/fuel cell is an old technology invented one hundred years ago. However, there is renewed interest in this technology in response to the growing need for clean energy technology. The zinc-air battery/fuel cell is more attractive than similar technologies because its characteristics include high power density, safe operation and storage, and low cost. Zinc-air battery/fuel cells can be made in milliwatts to mega watts to accommodate different applications. The zinc-air battery/fuel cell has four major designs, namely primary, mechanically rechargeable, continuous feed and electrically rechargeable zinc-air battery/fuel cells. Among the different designs, the most common is the air cathode. There are 3 generations of catalysts used in the air cathodes. This paper discussed the different designs of the zinc-air battery/fuel cell, and more ...
The Integral Fast Reactor is an innovative liquid metal reactor concept that is being developed by Argonne National Laboratory. It takes advantage of the properties of metallic fuel and liquid metal cooling to offer significant improvements in reactor safety, operation, fuel cycle economics, environmental protection, and safeguards. The plans for demonstrating the IFR fuel cycle, including its waste processing options, by processing irradiated fuel from the Experimental Breeder Reactor-II fuel in its associated Fuel Cycle Facility have been developed for the first refining series. This series has been designed to provide the data needed for the further development of the IFR program. An important piece of the data needed is the recovery of TRU material during the reprocessing and waste operations.
The Integral Fast Reactor is an innovative liquid metal reactor concept that is being developed by Argonne National Laboratory. It takes advantage of the properties of metallic fuel and liquid metal cooling to offer significant improvements in reactor safety, operation, fuel cycle economics, environmental protection, and safeguards. The plans for demonstrating the IFR fuel cycle, including its waste processing options, by processing irradiated fuel from the Experimental Breeder Reactor-II fuel in its associated Fuel Cycle Facility have been developed for the first refining series. This series has been designed to provide the data needed for the further development of the IFR program. An important piece of the data needed is the recovery of TRU material during the reprocessing and waste operations.
Using gasoline as an example of additives for cold start improvement, fuel vapor composition of methanol-gasoline mixtures, fuel evaporation rate in consideration of temperature drop due to heat of fuel evaporation, air fuel ratio, stoichiometric air fuel ratio and excess air ratio of fuel vapor were calculated. The mixture formation of methanol-gasoline mixtures at low temperature in otto cycle engines was studied. Van Laar's empirical formula was used to estimate the partial pressure of high-percentage methanol blends. It was found that the most part of fuel vapor is occupied by gasoline, even when a small amount of gasoline is added to methanol resulting to an extremely small excess air ratio. It is obvious that this vapor pressure adjustment using gasoline is the dominant factor for improvement in cold startability. (10 figs, 1 ...
Since 1999, several studies on nuclear fuels were realised in C11/C12 Atalante Hot Cell. This paper presents firstly an overview of the apparatus used for fuel dissolution and characterisation like reactor design, gas trapping flask and solid/liquid separation. Then, the general methodology is described as a function of fuel, temperature, reagents, showing for each step, the reachable experimental data: Dissolution rate, chemical and radiochemical fuel composition including volatile LLRN, insoluble mass, composition, morphology, cladding chemical, radiochemical and physical characterisation using SIMS (made in Cadarache/LECA facilities), MEB. To conclude, some of the obtained results on 129I and 14C composition of oxide fuels, rate of dissolution and first results on dissolution studies of RERTR UMo fuel will be detailed. (Author)
A micronized de-ashed coal-water slurry (CWS) fuel of approximately 50% coal loading has been successfully ignited and burned in one GE 7FDL engine cylinder at 1050 rpm. For this study, only about one-third of the full load fuel energy was supplied due to limitations of the fuel injection equipment used. Three types of ignition methods have been investigated. They were: Compression ignition with no ignition aid; Separate deisel pilot fuel injection to ignite the CWS fuel; Combined CWS and pilot diesel fuel injection (stratified pilot ignition). Conditions of ignition and the burning characteristics that immediately followed using the above three ignition methods are described.
...Polymer Fuel Cells Challenge Publications News Events Login Register Search Content type All Web pages Case studies Publications News Video Home ...Buildings Carbon capture & storage Combined heat & power Electricity transmission & distribution Energy storage Fuel cells Geothermal Hydroelectric Hydrogen Industry Lighting Marine Metering Nuclear Solar Transport Wind ...Home Emerging technologies Current focus areas Polymer Fuel Cell Challenge Polymer Fuel Cells Challenge The objective of the Polymer Fuel Cells Challenge is to develop,...prove and commercialise novel polymer fuel cell technologies that have the potential to deliver a step-change in overall system cost. What are ...
The production of atmospheric pollutants in combustion processes depends on plant characteristic, combustion conditions and fuel quality. The influence of fuel quality on the emission of sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, dust and carbon dioxide and on the emission of some toxic pollutants, such as heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, is analysed. The comparison between the emission limits, fixed by the Italian legislation, and the uncontrolled pollutant emissions, produced by fossil fuel combustion in power plants and industrial use, shows that, in order to comply with the limits, a reduction of pollutant emissions is required through the use of abatement systems and cleaner fuels where natural gas has a primary role. The use of cleaner fuels is particularly required in heating plants and appliances for the residential sector, where the development of ...
The helium releases were investigated in FBR fuel pins irradiated to high burn-up. The released amounts increased with the increase of burn-up, but no burn-up dependence of their release fraction to total amounts generated was seen. The contents of "2"4"1Am in fuel pellets affected the released amounts. The effect of released helium on the internal pressure in fuel pins was smaller in FBR fuel pins than in LWR fuel pins, but released helium in fuel pins containing increased amounts of "2"4"1Am, which are anticipated in future FBRs, is expected to affect the internal pressure.
The authors provide the intact criticality information that supports the disposal of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) from the US Department of Energy's (DOE's) Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) in the potential Monitored Geologic Repository at Yucca Mountain. FFTF is one of more than 250 forms of DOE-owned SNF. Because of the variety of the DOE SNF, the National Spent Nuclear Fuel Program has designated nine representative fuel groups for disposal criticality analyses based on fuel matrix, primary fissile isotope, and enrichment. The FFTF fuel is representative of the mixed-oxide fuel (MOX) group.
Recently, utilization of natural gas, which is considered to be one of most important alternative fuels for petroleum, has been marked. As thermal efficiency of dual-fuel engine is higher than those of other prime movers with gaseous fuel, i.e., spark-ignited gas engine or gas turbine, it is possible to construct fuel-economical gas power plants with dual-fuel engines. However, its horsepower has been limited to the rather lower range. In 1984, NKK succeeded in developing large-sized dual-fuel engines based on the Pielstick PC4 diesel engine. The horsepower is 1200 HP/cyl, i.e. 21,600 HP for 18-cyclinder engine.
The performance of a gas-fuelled diesel engine (dual fuel) is examined at light load and an effective threshold limit to the combustion of the gaseous fuel through bulk flame spread is identified. The relationship of such a limit to some of the key operating parameters is then discussed. A comparison between the measured values of the limit with those corresponding to the lower flammability limits of the gaseous fuel when evaluated under the prevailing cylinder conditions during pilot diesel fuel ignition showed similar trends. It is suggested that such a similarity may form a basis for estimating the lean operation limits for duel a fuel combustion in engines. A simple approach for estimating the limiting equivalence ratio for the apparent bulk flame spread limit is described for a methane-fuelled dual fuel engine. (Author)
Spent fuel management has always been one of the most important stages in the nuclear fuel cycle and it is still one of the most vital problems common to all countries with nuclear reactors. It begins with the discharge of spent fuel from a power or a research reactor and ends with its ultimate disposition, either by direct disposal or by reprocessing of the spent fuel. Two options exist at present - an open, once-through cycle with direct disposal of the spent fuel and a closed cycle with reprocessing of the spent fuel and recycling of plutonium and uranium in new mixed oxide fuels. The selection of a spent fuel strategy is a complex procedure in which many factors have to be weighed, including political, economic and safeguards issues as well as protection of the environment. Continuous attention is being given by the ...
This dissertation reports on the application of numerical optimization techniques as applied to fuel cell simulation and design. Due to the "multi-physics" inherent in a fuel cell, which results in a highly coupled and non-linear behavior, an experimental program to analyze and improve the performance of fuel cells is extremely difficult. This program applies new optimization techniques with computational methods from the field of aerospace engineering to the fuel cell design problem. After an overview of fuel cell history, importance, and classification, a mathematical model of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) is presented. The governing equations are discretized and solved with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques including unstructured meshes, non-linear solution methods, numerical derivatives with complex variables, and sensitivity analysis with ...
The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility for propane as an automotive fuel in Manitoba, by comparing the overall performance and operating costs of a test fleet operating on propane with that of a control fleet operating on unleaded gasoline. The performance of gasoline and propane was compared by using two specific tests: general driveability and relative fleet fuel consumption were determined by driver surveys and gross fuel use data from normal urban and rural vehicle operation. Specific fuel consumption was determined by controlled chassis dynamometer tests on a series of selected vehicles utilizing representative driving cycles. Fleet drivers operating propane fueled vehicles were satisfied with vehicle operation and reported similar vehicle performance with either gasoline or propane. Although there was no significant difference in specific ...
The procedure and operation-by-operation methods of the quality control of structural and fuel materials, mixed fuel pellets of UO_2-PuO_2, fuel element cans made of the AISI-316 steel and ready fuel elements are described as well as spacer wires (steel AISI-316), cases of fuel assemblies (FA) and completed FAs. The methods are used in manifacturing fuel elements and FAs for the FFTF reactor. The RDT standards that regulate the structure and functioning of the system of fuel element and FA production management are outlined. Destructive analytical methods characterized by sufficient accuracy but low productivity are noted to represent a considerable share of operations. Some specialized means of nondestructive testing are developed, such as the gauge to measure the total plutonium content in a fuel element, neutron ...
The procedure and operation-by-operation methods of the quality control of structural and fuel materials, mixed fuel pellets of UO/sub 2/-PuO/sub 2/, fuel element cans made of the AISI-316 steel and ready fuel elements are described as well as spacer wires (steel AISI-316), cases of fuel assemblies (FA) and completed FAs. The methods are used in manifacturing fuel elements and FAs for the FFTF reactor. The RDT standards that regulate the structure and functioning of the system of fuel element and FA production management are outlined. Destructive analytical methods characterized by sufficient accuracy but low productivity are noted to represent a considerable share of operations. Some specialized means of nondestructive testing are developed, such as the gauge to measure the total plutonium content in a fuel element, ...
10 papers are presented with the following titles: coal fueled diesel engine development update at GE transportation systems; features and performance data of Cooper-Bassemer coal-fueled six-cylinder LSB engine; preliminary test data and systems analysis of a high pressure coal fuel processor/engine system concept; study for coal-water-slurry fuel combustion in a high speed diesel engine; design and operation of a medium speed 12-cylinder coal-fueled diesel engine; progress on the investigation of coal water slurry fuel combustion in a medium speed diesel engine: part 5 - combustion studies; injection characteristics of coal-water slurries in medium speed diesel equipment; coal-water slurry spray characteristics of a positive displacement fuel injection system; novel injector techniques for coal-fueled diesel engines; ...
The characterization data obtained to date are described for Approved Testing Material (ATM)-106 spent fuel from Assembly BT03 of pressurized-water reactor Calvert Cliffs No. 1. This report is one in a series being prepared by the Materials Characterization Center at Pacific Northwest Laboratory on spent fuel ATMs. The ATMs are receiving extensive examinations to provide a source of well- characterized spent fuel for testing in the US Department of Energy Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management (OCWRM) program. ATM-106 consists of 20 full-length irradiated fuel rods with rod-average burnups of about 3700 GJ/kgM (43 MWd/kgM) and expected fission gas release of /approximately/10%. Characterization data include (1) as-fabricated fuel design, irradiation history, and subsequent storage and handling; (2) isotopic gamma scans; (3) fission gas analyses; (4) ceramography of the ...
The characterization data obtained to date are described for Approved Testing Material 104 (ATM-104), which is spent fuel from Assembly DO47 of the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant (Unit 1), a pressurized-water reactor. This report is one in a series being prepared by the Materials Characterization Center at Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) on spent fuel ATMs. The ATMs are receiving extensive examinations to provide a source of well-characterized spent fuel for testing in the US Department of Energy Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management (OCRWM) Program. ATM-104 consists of 128 full-length irradiated fuel rods with rod-average burnups of about 42 MWd/kgM and expected fission gas release of about 1%. A variety of analyses were performed to investigate cladding characteristics, radionuclide inventory, and redistribution of fission products. Characterization data include (1) fabricated ...
The CANFLEX-NU Fuel Design Report (FDR) for Wolsung 1,2,3,4 was submitted for licensing review in July 1996. The FDR contains sections of fuel rod design, fuel bundle design, nuclear design and thermal-hydraulic design. Each section describes the design bases, design methodology and design evaluation results showing that the design bases are met. The CANFLEX-NU fuel design is not finalized yet in Korean licensing point of view. For example, among others, new Xc-BL correlation is needed to be developed, fuel rod gap reduction effect is to be considered in the Critical Heat Flux, more information for power ramp defect of fuel rod especially in the end-cap weld region is needed in the fuel rod design, and enough data are not available in irradiated conditions in the fuel rod and bundle designs. The specific detailed ...
Changes in the physical and chemical processes during the ignition delay period of a gas-fueled diesel engine (dual-fuel engine) due to the increased admission of the gaseous fuels and diluents are examined. The extension to the chemical aspects of the ignition delay with the added gaseous fuels and the diluents into the cylinder charge is evaluated using detailed reaction kinetics for the oxidation of dual-fuel mixtures at an adiabatic constant volume process while employing n-heptane as a representative of the main components of the diesel fuel. In the examination of the physical aspects of the delay period, the relative contributions of changes in charge temperature, pressure, physical properties, pre-ignition energy release, heat transfer, and the residual gas effects due to the admission of the gaseous fuels are discussed and evaluated. ...
According to W. H. Wiser and A. G. Oblad, the program at the University of Utah to develop coal conversion techniques, which has received federal grants of $1.35 million since 1969, recently was awarded $425,000 from the U.S. Office of Coal Research for the development of catalysts for coal conversion and low-sulfur fuel oil production. In tests, 100 lb of coal have been converted into 95 lb of products composed of 30 lb liquid fuel like gasoline, 5 lb of diesel or fuel oil, 30 lb of gaseous fuel, and 30 lb of char.
Tests have been conducted on a special compression ignition research engine to investigate the effects of gaseous fuels on the ignition delay in dual fuel engines. Diesel oil, n-heptane, or cetane were used as pilot fuels, and hydrogen, carbon monoxide, or methane were inducted in the intake manifold. Induction of nitrogen was used as a reference to eliminate the influence of changes in oxygen concentration and specific heats. Helium was inducted in additional tests. From the results of a number of parameter variations, the cylinder charge temperature (determined by intake temperature and compression ratio), the pilot fuel amount, and the flow of combustible gas were found to have the most significant influence on the ignition delay.
Experiments in a homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engine have been conducted with four gasoline surrogate fuel blends. The pure components in the surrogate fuels consisted of n-heptane, isooctane, toluene, ethanol and diisobutylene and fuel sensitivities (RON-MON) in the fuel blends ranged from two to nine. The operating conditions for the engine were p{sub in}=0.1 and 0.2 MPa, T{sub in}=80 and 250 C, {phi}=0.25 in air and engine speed 1200 rpm. A semidetailed chemical kinetic model (142 species and 672 reactions) for gasoline surrogate fuels, validated against ignition data from experiments conducted in shock tubes for gasoline surrogate fuel blends at 1.0{<=} p{<=}5.0MPa, 700{<=} T{<=}1200 K and {phi}=1.0, was successfully used to qualitatively predict the HCCI experiments using a single zone modeling approach. The ...
In the analysis of the consequences of a hypothetical meltdown accident in an LMFBR, it is important to estimate the final location of the molten fuel pool in the concrete and ground underlying the reactor vessel. The GROWS program and the AYER program have been developed to calculate the final location of the molten fuel pool as the culmination of the transient analysis of this unusual Stefan problem but these programs require extensive computational resources. The solution is provided to the concrete and ground temperatures surrounding the stationary fuel pool and the related heat flux from the pool to the ground surface outside the containment building. This solution can be used to estimate the final location of the fuel pool and to check the end results of the sophisticated programs.
Thermal expansions of a simulated fuel (SS-1) were measured by using a Dilatometer (DIL402C) from room temperature to 1900 K. The main procedure of an uncertainty evaluation followed the strategy of the UO{sub 2} fuel. Referring to the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) guide, the uncertainties of the thermal expansion were quantified in three parts - the initial length, the length variation, and the system calibration factor. The uncertainty of the thermal expansion for a simulated fuel was also compared with those of UO{sub 2} fuel.
The combination of wood gasification and high temperature fuel cells like solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) is an interesting approach to achieve high electrical efficiencies (40%) in small scale combined heat and power plants. This combination is called 'Biomass - Integrated Gasification Fuel Cell System' (B-IGFC). The main challenge is the adjustment of the three main components gasification, gas cleaning and fuel cell. In this technology, the first proof of principle by combining a gasifier with a SOFC in a laboratory scale for more than 100 hours was achieved. During this period, no deactivation of the system was found. (author)
Biomass can provide a substantial energy source. Liquids are preferred for use as transportation fuels because of their high energy density and handling ease and safety. Liquid fuel production from biomass can be accomplished by any of several different processes including hydrolysis and fermentation of the carbohydrates to alcohol fuels, thermal gasification and synthesis of alcohol or hydrocarbon fuels, direct extraction of biologically produced hydrocarbons such as seed oils or algae lipids, or direct thermochemical conversion of the biomass to liquids and catalytic upgrading to hydrocarbon fuels. This report discusses direct thermochemical conversion to achieve biomass liquefaction and the requirements for wastewater treatment inherent in such processing. 21 refs.
A fuel plate examination was conducted in the hot cell and canal to determine the possible failure modes for three plates leaking fission products. The plates were irradiated in the Extended Life Aluminide Fuel (ELAF) program in support of university research reactor goals to increase the limits presently allowed. The examination indicated pitting corrosion to be the failure mode. Other failure modes such as: (a) nonbonded swelling, (b) excessive fuel swelling, and (c) overheating of the plates were not observed.
According to China's 'Medium- and Long-term Nuclear Power Development Program (2005-2020)', nuclear energy development in China will take the technical line of closed nuclear fuel cycle. This paper discusses the significance of closed nuclear fuel cycle, and briefly introduces development trends in the world. This article also discusses the opportunity to construct spent fuel reprocessing plant; equilibrium of plutonium production and consumption; adaptability and economics to use MOX fuel in the thermal neutron reactor. Some suggestions are put forward to the overall development of nuclear energy in China. (authors)
The manufacturing of TRIGA fuel rods with low enriched uranium follows in principle the same route as high-enriched uranium. The high purity of the primary metals (uranium, zirconium and erbium) is important for determining the equilibrium metal-hydrogen phases. The impurities from the metal, on the surface and from hydrogen may have an important influence on the hydriding process. This paper presents the aspects of the fuel contamination with oxygen during the manufacturing process of the low enriched uranium fuel. The continuous control of the oxygen concentration in the working zone ensures avoidance of the accidental contamination. Key words: manufacturing, fuel, oxygen, contamination. (authors)
The approach-to-critical measurements reported were for a plate-type fuel element where the height of the water moderator and side and top reflector were increased. Measurements were also performed with each of the two annuli of the fuel element to verify both the presence of boron in the fuel plates and the proper uranium loading prior to assembly of the two annuli for full submersion measurements. Measurements were also performed with detectors external to the reflector (> 15 cm of water on top, bottom, and side) for the assembled, submerged HFIR fuel element.
Main results are summarised for a project carried out with the aim of increasing the knowledge of relations between handling characeristics and properties such as moisture content, particle size and shape etc. Handling characteristics that were studied: angle of repose, friction between fuel and different surfaces, the fuel`s tendency to bridge across openings, and its freezing characteristics. Some forty solid biomass fuels were studied, mainly wood fuels, with particle sized from 1 to 200 mm. New methods were developed for measurement of bridging across openings and freezing characeristics. The angle of repose varied between 25 and 55 deg. The particle shape had a significant influence, a high ratio of length/thickness gave a high angle of repose. When the fuel moisture content was increased the angle of repose first increased, then decreased, and finally increased again. The ...
CANDU 600 nuclear reactors are usually fuelled with STANDARD (STD), 37 rods fuel bundles. Natural uranium (NU) dioxide (UO_2), is used as fuel composition. A new fuel bundle geometry called CANFLEX (CFX) with 43 rods is proposed and some new fuel composition are considered. Flexibility is the key word for the attempt to use some different fuel geometries and compositions for CANDU 600 nuclear reactors as well as for innovative ACR-700/1000 nuclear reactors. The fuel bundle considered in this paper is CFX-RU-0.90 that encodes the CANFLEX geometry, recycled dioxide uranium (RU) with 0.90% enrichment. The goal of this proposal is ambitious: a higher average discharge burn-up up to 14000 MWd/tU and, for the same amount of generated electric power, reduction in nuclear fuel fabrication, reduction of spent nuclear fuel ...
Fuel assemblies in a reactor pressure vessel are disposed in a reactor core shroud. The own weight of the fuel assembly is supported by a reactor core support plate, and is supported, for the horizontal direction, by an upper lattice plate and the reactor core support plate. A support portion for the upper portion of the fuel assembly is disposed above the fuel assembly, and a support portion for the support portion described above is joined to a shroud head by welding. The support portion for the upper portion of the fuel assembly has a network-like portion which absorbs and disperses rising force which exerted on the fuel assembly when the fuel assembly is risen by seismic forces. The rising force exerted on the fuel assembly absorbed by the network-like portion is effectively transferred to the shroud head by the ...
There is a growing interest in using {sup 242m}Am as a nuclear fuel. The advantages of {sup 242m}Am as a nuclear fuel derive from the fact that {sup 242m}Am has the highest thermal fission cross section. The thermal capture cross section is relatively low and the number of neutrons per thermal fission is high. These nuclear properties make it possible to obtain nuclear criticality with ultra-thin fuel elements. The possibility of having ultra-thin fuel elements enables the use of these fission products directly, without the necessity of converting their energy to heat, as is done in conventional reactors. There are three options of using such highly energetic and highly ionized fission products. - Using the fission products themselves for ionic propulsion. - Using the fission products in an MHD generator, in order to obtain electricity directly. - Using the fission products to heat a gas up to a high ...
A technical review is presented of experiment activities and state of knowledge on air-borne, radiation source terms resulting from explosive sabotage attacks on spent reactor fuel subassemblies in shielded casks. Current assumptions about the behavior of irradiated fuel are largely based on a limited number of experimental results involving unirradiated, depleted uranium dioxide ''surrogate'' fuel. The behavior of irradiated nuclear fuel subjected to explosive conditions could be different from the behavior of the surrogate fuel, depending on the assumptions made by the evaluator. Available data indicate that these potential differences could result in errors, and possible orders-of-magnitude overestimates of aerosol dispersion and potential health effects from sabotage attacks. Furthermore, it is suggested that the current assumptions used in ...
There are 4 CANDU reactors at Wolsung site together with a spent fuel dry storage associated with unit 1. These CANDU reactors, classified as On-Load Reactor (OLR) for Safeguards application, change 16- 24 fuel bundles with fresh fuel in everyday. Especially, the spent fuel bundles are transferred from spent fuel bays to dry storage throughout a year because of the insufficient capacity of spent fuel pond. Safeguards inspectors verify the spent fuel transfer to meet safeguards purposes according to the safeguards criteria by means of inspector's presence during the transfer campaign. For the verification, 60-80 person-days of inspection (PDIs) are needed during approximately 3 months for each unit. In order to reduce the inspection effort and operators' burden, an Unattended Monitoring System (UMS) was designed and ...
The effects on engine emissions resulting from the intake manifold fumigation of oxygenated fuel and the addition of oxygenates to the fuel have been investigated using a direct-injection diesel engine. The results show that carefully selected oxygenated fuels effectively work to increase the ignition delay because of their low ignition quality and to decrease the combustion temperature due to the low compression gas temperature produced from their large heat of vaporization, thereby reducing levels of Bosch smoke and nitrogen oxides simultaneously. However, supplementary injection of the oxygenates into the intake air causes a drastic increase in the levels of exhaust total hydrocarbons and CO; thus, it can be said that the addition of oxygenates to the fuel is more practical and effective than fumigation if phase separation of the blended fuel may not be occurred. In the case of ...
In the fuel testing facilities of Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute, the post-irradiation test of practical fuel used in nuclear power stations was begun in December, 1979, and the soundness of practical fuel has been confirmed, and the valuable post-irradiation test data on the behavior of fuel have been acquired. Recently, the heightening of fuel burnup has been advanced, and also in fuel testing facilities, the development and preparation of the post-irradiation testing facility required for examining in detail high burnup fuel have been carried out. The course of the installation of the post-irradiation testing facility and the outline of the facility are reported. As the preparation of the post-irradiation testing facility for high burnup fuel, a hyperfine hardness tester that measures dynamic hardness, the ...
The US National Energy Policy of 2001 advocated the development of advanced fuel and fuel cycle technologies that are cleaner, more efficient, less waste-intensive, and more proliferation resistant. The need for advanced fuel development is emphasized in on-going DOE-supported programs, e.g., Global Nuclear Energy Initiative (GNEI), Advanced Fuel Cycle Initiative (AFCI), and GEN-IV Technology Development. The Directorates of Energy & Environment (E&E) and Chemistry & Material Sciences (C&MS) at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) are interested in advanced fuel research and manufacturing using its multi-disciplinary capability and facilities to support a design concept of a small, secure, transportable, and autonomous reactor (SSTAR). The E&E and C&MS Directorates co-sponsored this Laboratory Directed Research & Development ...
For safety evaluations and licensing procedures, fuel rod performance is predicted through model calculations. Due to the complexity of fuel rod performance and the insufficient availability of experimental data, such calculations necessarily reflect inaccuracies and conservatism. For verification and development of more realistic models and submodels, acquisition of reliable on-line data on fuel rod performance characteristics is imperative. The present paper describes the instruments and equipment applied in the Halden Reactor for on-line measurements of fuel rod and assembly power and power distribution, and fuel rod axial and diameter deformation. Recent results from evaluation of such fuel rod deformation measurements, covering fuel rods with different designs, subjected to various modes of operation, including startup ramps, steady ...
The effects of compression ratio on the history of the fuel-burning process was investigated in a single-cylinder direct-injection diesel engine. Two compression ratios of 21.4 and 18.5 were studied by using two wide and shallow bowls. The engine was operated at different speeds and overall air-fuel ratios, but with constant start-of-combustion timing at top dead center. The measured cylinder pressure was used to derive fuel-burning rate. At all conditions, the low-compression-ratio bowl had a larger mass of premixed-burned fuel and a higher peak specific fuel-burning rate. The fuel-burning rate in the diffusion-controlled phase of combustion decreased with decreasing compression ratio. The resulting combustion duration became longer at reduced compression ratio, and the difference could be as large as 14 crank-angle degrees. For the engine conditions examined ...
Korea Advanced Energy Research Institute (KAERI) started a research project to develop the PHWR (CANDU) nuclear fuel fabrication technology in 1981. Based on the results of the intensive developmental work, several prototype fuel bundles were fabricated and tested in the Hot Test Loop at KAERI continuously in 1983 and 1984. After that, irradiation test and post-irradiation examination were carried out for two KAERI-made fuel bundles at Chalk River Nuclear Laboratories in Canada in 1984. Since the results of in-pile and out-of-pile tests with prototype fuel bundles proved to be satisfactory, 48 additional fuel bundles were loaded in Wolsung reactor (CANDU) in 1984 and 1985, and all of them were discharged without a defect after excellent performance in the power reactor. In 1985, the Korean government decided that KAERI supplies all the fuel necessary for the ...
Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) diesel fuel is characterized by a high cetane number, a near-zero sulphur content and a very low aromatic level. On the basis of the recorded incylinder pressures and injector needle lifts, the combustion characteristics of an unmodified single-cylinder direct-injection diesel engine operating on F-T diesel fuel are analyzed and compared with those of conventional diesel fuel operation. The results show that F-T diesel fuel exhibits a slightly longer injection delay and injection duration, an average of 18.7% shorter ignition delay, and a comparable total combustion duration when compared to those of conventional diesel fuel. Meanwhile, F-T diesel fuel displays an average of 26.8% lower peak value of premixed burning rate and a higher peak value of diffusive burning rate. In addition, the F-T diesel engine has a slightly lower peak ...
The Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) features a three-loop, sodium-cooled 400 MWt mixed oxide fueled reactor designed for the irradiation testing of fuels and materials for use in liquid metal cooled fast reactors. To establish the ultimate capability of a particular fuel design and thereby generate information that will lead to improvements, many of the fuel irradiations are continued until a loss of cladding integrity (failure) occurs. When the cladding fails, fission gas escapes from the fuel pin and enters the reactor cover gas system. If the cladding failure permits the primary sodium to come in contact with the fuel, recoil fission products can enter the sodium. The presence of recoil fission products in the sodium can be detected by monitoring for the presence of delayed neutrons in the coolant. It is the present philosophy to not operate FFTF when a ...
The objective of this report was to evaluate four possible alternative methods of preparing and packaging spent fuel assemblies for geologic disposal against the Reference Process of unmodified spent fuel. The four alternative processes were: (1) End fitting removal, (2) Fission gas venting and resealing, (3) Fuel bundle disassembly and close packing of fuel pins, and (4) Fuel shearing and immobilization. Systems analysis was used to develop a basis of comparison of the alternatives. Conceptual processes and facility layouts were devised for each of the alternatives, based on technology deemed feasible for the purpose. Assessments were made of 15 principal attributes from the technical, operational, safety/risk, and economic considerations related to each of the alternatives, including both the surface packaging and underground repository operations. Specific attributes of the ...
The search for alternative fuels and new fuel resources is a top priority for Turkey, as is the case in the majority of countries throughout the world. The fuel policies pursued by governmental or civil authorities are of key importance in the success of alternative fuel use, especially for widespread and efficient use. Following the 1973 petroleum crisis, many users in Turkey, especially in transportation sector, searched for alternative fuels and forms of transportation. Gasoline engines were replaced with diesel engines between the mid-1970s and mid-1980s. In addition, natural gas was introduced to the Turkish market for heating in the early 1990s. Liquid petroleum gas was put into use in the mid-1990s, and bio-diesel was introduced into the market for transportation in 2003. However, after long periods of indifference governmental action, guidance and fuel ...
The ability to test advanced fuels and cladding materials under reactor operating conditions in the United States is limited. The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) and the newly expanded post-irradiation examination (PIE) capability at the ORNL Irradiated Fuels Examination Laboratory provide unique support for this type of advanced fuel/cladding development effort. The wide breadth of ORNL's fuels and materials research divisions provides all the necessary fuel development capabilities in one location. At ORNL, facilities are available from test fuel fabrication, to irradiation in HFIR under either thermal or fast reactor conditions, to a complete suite of PIEs, and to final product disposal. There are very few locations in the world where this full range of capabilities exists. New testing capabilities at HFIR have ...
TRIGA-SSR is a steady state research and material test reactor that has been in operation since 1980. The original TRIGA fuel was HEU (highly enriched uranium) with a U"2"3"5 enrichment of 93 per cent. Almost all TRIGA HEU fuel bundles are now burned-up. Part of the spent fuel was loaded and transferred to US, in a Romania - DOE arrangement. The rest of the TRIGA fuel bundles have to be temporarily stored in the TRIGA facility. As the storage conditions had to be established with caution, neutron and thermal hydraulic evaluations of the storage conditions were required. Some criticality evaluations were made based on the SAR (Safety Analysis Report) data. Fuel constant axial temperature approximation effect is usual for criticality computations. TRIGA-SSR fuel bundle geometry and materials model for SCALE5-CSAS module allows the introduction of a ...
Full text of publication follows: The TUV NORD e.V. is an independent Technical Support Organisation (TSO) performing safety assessments in almost every field of technology. In nuclear safety the TUV can look back on more than 40 years of experience. In the last years in Germany PWR safety analyses were focussed on boron dilution events with the potential of reactivity transients. The possibility of coolant with a low boron concentration collected in localized areas of the reactor coolant system (RCS) can be caused by injection of coolant with less boron content from interfacing systems (external dilution) as well as separation of borated reactor coolant into highly concentrated and diluted fractions (inherent dilution). Inherent dilution can e.g. occur after reflux-condenser heat transfer after a small break loss of coolant accident (SBLOCA) with a limited operability of the emergency core cooling (ECC) systems. The TUV Nord e.V. was charged by German supervisory ...
1 - Description of test facility: The LOBI facility is a 1/700 scale model of a four loop PWR and has two primary loops, the intact loop representing three loops and the broken loop representing one loop of a four-loop PWR. The reactor pressure vessel model contains an electrically heated rod-bundle with 64 rods and a heated length of 3.9 m. The nominal heating power is 5.3 MW. The downcomer is of annular shape. An upper head simulator is connected to the vessel. Each of the two primary loops contains a pump and a steam generator. The different mass flows in the loops are established by the pump speeds, since the two pumps are identical. Heat is removed from the steam generators by a secondary system. ECC water can be supplied from two accumulators, one for each loop. Cold or hot leg as well as combined injection can be simulated. The LOBI test facility is the only high pressure integral test facility within the European Communities (1982), ...
The United State Domestic Research Reactor Infrastructure Program at the Idaho National Laboratory manages and provides project management, technical, quality engineering, quality inspection and nuclear material support for the United States Department of Energy sponsored University Reactor Fuels Program. This program provides fresh, unirradiated nuclear fuel to Domestic University Research Reactor Facilities and is responsible for the return of the DOE-owned, irradiated nuclear fuel over the life of the program. This presentation will introduce the program management team, the universities supported by the program, the status of the program and focus on the return process of irradiated nuclear fuel for long term storage at DOE managed receipt facilities. It will include lessons learned from research reactor facilities that have successfully shipped spent fuel elements to DOE ...
Thermal-fluid flow analysis and demonstration test were performed for a spent fuel storage system. The commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code, FLUENT was used for the numerical analysis. Effective thermal conductivities of a spent fuel assembly and a fuel basket were derived to optimize a thermal analysis model. Also, a porous model, which can simplify a complex configuration of a fuel assembly, was used in the thermal analysis. Demonstration test were performed to verify the thermal analysis method and procedure using a half scaled-down model and an electrically heated dummy fuel. The numerical analysis results were compared with the experimental data. Thermal analyses of the storage system were carried out for normal and off-normal conditions by using the verified analysis method.
Effects of combustion conditions on the critical calorific value of flame blowout were reported for low calorific gas on the assumption of using coal derived gaseous fuel. Further, calculations of adiabatic flame temperature by using chemical equilibrium calculation were conducted in order to get a possibility of increasing exit gas temperature of gas turbine combustor to 1,300 C for low calorific value gas fuel. As a result, effects of (1) fuel composition, (2) preheating fuel temperature, (3) calorific value, and (4) combustion air velocity and fuel nozzle diameter, on the critical calorific values of flame blowout were clarified. In increasing exit gas temperature of gas turbine combustor to 1,300 C when using low calorific value gas fuel, it is essential to get an advanced cooling technology for the gas turbine combustor.
This paper reports on current dual fuel engines utilizing standard mechanical (Bosch type) fuel injection systems set to 5--6 percent pilot delivery that do not appear capable of reducing NO{sub x} emissions much below the current minimum of 4 g/bhp-h without incurring substantial penalties in efficiency and operability. A prototype Electronic Pilot Fuel Injector (EPFI) was designed that overcomes the shortcomings of the mechanical injection system, consistently delivering 3 percent or less pilot at pressures as high as 20,000 psi. The EPFI was installed and tested in one cylinder of a standard production dual fuel engine operating at a waste water treatment facility.
The ability of the /sup 252/Cf-source-driven neutron noise analysis method to measure subcriticality has been demonstrated in a variety of experimental configurations of fissile materials. Calculations for an approximately 4-m-dia configuration of light water reactor (LWR) fuel elements indicated the feasibility of measuring the subcriticality of large, loosely coupled arrays of LWR fuel elements by this same method. These analysis suggested application to the initial loading of both pressurized and boiling water reactors, zero-power testing of reactors (such as shutdown margin measurements after initial loading), light water reactor refueling, and safe storage of LWR spent fuel. In the fuel storage application, direct measurement of subcriticality in the actual fuel storage facilities provides the parameter which is directly related to criticality safety.
The present volume on modeling of batteries and fuel cells discusses the significance of the effectiveness factor for flooded porous electrodes, active pore distribution spectroscopy for characterizing porous battery electrodes, the agglomerate model for porous electrodes, and dynamic-performance measurements of battery cells for electric vehicles and other applications. Attention is given to mathematical modeling of a primary zinc/air battery, mathematical modeling of Grace Li-TiS2 cells, modeling of electrocrystallization processes in battery systems, and rotating disk electrode studies in molten Li/K carbonate eutectic. Topics addressed include the variability of nickel oxide cathode dissolution in molten carbonate fuel cells, water transport properties of fuel cell ionomers, modeling water content effects in polymer electrolyte fuel cells, and computer algebra applied in electrochemistry and ...
This report discusses the UTR-10 reactor at Iowa State University which went critical on low enriched uranium (LEU) fuel on August 14, 1991. However, subsequent to the criticality experiments the fuel plates started to discolor. In addition, roll pins used to lift the fuel assemblies were discovered to be cracked. It was determined that these problems were due to chemical agents in the primary coolant water. The roll pins were replaced by solid stainless steel pins. The primary coolant was replaced and the reactor is currently in operation. Surveillance specimens will be used to monitor any possible future discoloration. The high enriched fuel (HEU) is being prepared for eventual shipment to a high enriched fuel receiving facility.
This report discusses the UTR-10 reactor at Iowa State University which went critical on low enriched uranium (LEU) fuel on August 14, 1991. However, subsequent to the criticality experiments the fuel plates started to discolor. In addition, roll pins used to lift the fuel assemblies were discovered to be cracked. It was determined that these problems were due to chemical agents in the primary coolant water. The roll pins were replaced by solid stainless steel pins. The primary coolant was replaced and the reactor is currently in operation. Surveillance specimens will be used to monitor any possible future discoloration. The high enriched fuel (HEU) is being prepared for eventual shipment to a high enriched fuel receiving facility.
In order to find the solution to the problem of depletion of conventional fuels and environmental pollution caused by them, new design concepts such as low heat rejection engines and alternate fuel vehicles have started to appear. The present study deals with the concept of alternate fuel vehicle using hydrogen as a fuel. Results of analytical study to minimize heat loss during the power stroke of a hydrogen fueled spark ignition engine have been presented. Effect of various design and operating parameters on heat losses using a simulation model developed by the authors have also been presented. The results shall be helpful in designing efficient hydrogen fuelled spark ignition engines. (orig.)
Fuel management simulations have been performed for 0.9% SEU CANFLEX fuel in the Wolsung-1. Based on earlier studies at AECL, the bi-directional, four-bundle-shift fuelling scheme was assumed. Time-averaged simulations resulted in an average discharge burnup of 13.0 MWd/kgU. The derived pin power envelope indicated that the peak linear element rating with CANFLEX fuel is 15% less than that obtained with 0.9% SEU 37-element fuel and there is little power boosting at high burnups. Calculated worths of the reactivity devices are sufficient to provide the control and safety requirements for CANFLEX 0.9% SEU fuel in the Wolsung-1 reactor. (Author).
Several natural gas vehicles have been built as part of Ford's Alternative Fuel Demonstration Fleet. Two basic methods, compressed gas (CNG), and liquified gas (LNG) were used. Heat transfer danger and the expense and special training needed for LNG refueling are cited. CNG in a dual-fuel engine was demonstrated first. The overall results were unsatisfactory. A single fuel LNG vehicle was then demonstrated. Four other demonstrations, testing different tank weights and engine sizes, lead to the conclusion that single fuel vehicles optimized for CNG use provide better fuel efficiency than dual-fuel vehicles. Lack of public refueling stations confines use to fleet operations.
A major initiative to develop and irradiate a long-life, mixed-oxide fuel system in the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) has been implemented by Westinghouse Hanford Company for the US Department of Energy. The FFTF, shown in Figures 1 and 2, is a 400 megawatt thermal, fast liquid metal reactor that tests liquid metal, space and fusion fuels and materials. The new fuel system, called the Core Demonstration Experiment (CDE) demonstrates the capability of achieving a three- to four-year life in a prototypic heterogeneous reactor environment under prototypic power and temperature conditions. This fuel system will greatly increase fuel performance and lifetime from the current standard FFTF driver fuel. New design features, fabrication development, CDE assembly fabrication, and irradiation status have been described.
Fuel Management at the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) involves more than just the usual ex-core and in-core management of standard fuel and non-fuel components between storage locations and within the core since it is primarily an irradiation test facility. This mission involves testing an ever increasing variety of fueled and non-fueled experiments, each having unique requirements on the reactor core as well as having its own individual impact on the reload design. This paper describes the fuel management process used by the Westinghouse Hanford Company Core Engineering group that has led to the successful reload design of nine operating cycles and the irradiation of over 120 tests.
Since actinide mononitride has several superior thermal and neutronic properties, nitride fuel is considered as a candidate for future nuclear systems, such as advanced fast reactors and accelerator-driven system. Establishing reprocessing technology is one of key technologies for the development of nitride fuel cycle. In addition to general advantages of pyrochemical process, such as the potential for economy, radiation and proliferation resistance, recycling of N-15 in nitride fuel seems to be practical in comparison with conventional hydro-process. Following the electrochemical measurements of nitride fuel in LiCl-KCl molten salt, the experimental study on closing nitride fuel cycle has been carried out in JAEA by used of TRU nitride and burnup simulated nitride samples. Recent progress of the study is summarized in this paper.
An investigation of current dual-fuel natural gas/diesel engine design, performance, and emissions was conducted. The most pressing technological problems associated with dual-fuel engine use were identified along with potential solutions. It was concluded that dual-fuel engines can achieve low NOx and particulate emissions while retaining fuel-efficiency and BMEP levels comparable to those of diesel engines. The investigation also examined the potential economic impact of dual-fuel engines in diesel-electric locomotives, marine vessels, farm equipment, construction, mining, and industrial equipment, and stand-alone electricity generation systems. Recommendations for further additional funding to support research, development, and demonstration in these applications were then presented.
The facilities in the Institute for Nuclear Research at Pitesti allow the testing, handling and examination of nuclear fuel and irradiated materials. The most important facilities are the TRIGA Steady State Research and Material Test Reactor and the Post-Irradiation Examination Laboratory (PIEL). The purpose of this work is to determine by post-irradiation examination, the behavior of CANDU fuel, irradiated in 14 MW TRIGA reactor. The fuel was irradiated in power ramp conditions. The results of post-irradiation examination are: - Visual inspection and photography of the outer appearance of sheath; - Profilometry (diameter, bending, ovality) and length measuring; - Determination of axial and radial distribution of the fusion products activity by gamma scanning and tomography; - Microstructural characterization by metallographic and ceramographic analyzes; - Mechanical properties determination. The data obtained from the ...
A detector head for in situ inspection of irradiated nuclear fuel assemblies submerged in a water-filled nuclear fuel storage pond. The detector head includes two parallel arms which extend from a housing and which are spaced apart so as to be positionable on opposite sides of a submerged fuel assembly. Each arm includes an ionization chamber and two fission chambers. One fission chamber in each arm is enclosed in a cadmium shield and the other fission chamber is unshielded. The ratio of the outputs of the shielded and unshielded fission chambers is used to determine the boron content of the pond water. Correcting for the boron content, the neutron flux and gamma ray intensity are then used to verify the declared exposure, cooling time and fissile material content of the irradiated fuel assembly.
A multi-zone computational model in conjunction with some engine tests are used to examine the combustion process of gas fueled diesel engines common known as dual fuel engine to provide information about details of the production of exhaust emissions, especially at light load when very lean mixtures are employed. Detailed chemical reaction kinetic simulation is employed for each of these individual combustion zones so as to establish the associated temporal variations in the concentrations of reacting species right to the exhaust stage. The influence of changes in major operating and design parameters such as the concentration of the gaseous fuel in the cylinder charge, intake temperature and the size of the diesel pilot fuel employed on the production of the exhaust emissions are examined. It is demonstrated in general that any measure that tends to increase the size of the combustion regions within ...
A multi-zone computational model in conjunction with some engine tests are used to examine the combustion process of gas fueled diesel engines commonly known as dual fuel engine to provide information about details of the production of exhaust emissions, especially at light load when very lean mixtures are employed. Detailed chemical reaction kinetic simulation is employed for each of these individual combustion zones so as to establish the associated temporal variations in the concentrations of reacting species right to the exhaust stage. The influence of changes in major operating and design parameters such as the concentration of the gaseous fuel in the cylinder charge, intake temperature and the size of the diesel pilot fuel employed on the production of the exhaust emissions are examined. It is demonstrated in general that any measure that tends to increase the size of the combustion regions within ...
This paper presents the application of artificial neural networks to adiabatic flame temperature prediction of hydrocarbon fuels. The investigation was conducted over a wide range of operating conditions in terms of fuel composition, pressure and temperature of reactants, fuel-air equivalence ratio and fuel vapour fraction. Several neural network models for predicting the flame temperature for different applicable fuel ranges were built and examined. The proper preparation of network training data and the appropriate choice of network parameters for achieving better prediction accuracy are discussed. The neural network prediction results were compared with those calculated by a thermodynamic and chemical equilibrium-based computer code - the NASA program CET89. It was shown that trained neural network models can provide the adiabatic flame temperature prediction with a good level of ...
This report presents the results of a study dealing with the homogeneous recycling of either Pu or Pu+Np or Pu+Np+Am or Pu+Np+Am+Cm in PWRs using MOX-UE fuel, i.e. standard MOX fuel with a U235 enriched uranium support instead of the standard tail uranium (0.25%) for standard MOX fuel. This approach allows to multirecycle Pu or TRU (Pu+MA) as long as U235 is available, by keeping the Pu or TRU content in the fuel constant and at a value ensuring a negative moderator void coefficient (i.e. the loss of the coolant brings imperatively the reactor to a subcritical state). Once this value is determined, the U235 enrichment of the MOX-UE fuel is adjusted in order to reach the target burnup (51 GWd/t in this study).
Forced vibration experiment has been conducted for the reactor building of Sendai Unit 1 nuclear power plant. The beam vibrational behaviors of the outer shielding building and the internal concrete structure have been observed by using a 50 tf vibration for low frequency region, and a 10 tf vibration for high frequency region, respectively. The outline of the experimental methods, the data handling system and the major results of experiment are described. The experimental results were simulated by an analytical model. The proper vibrational frequency and the vibration modes obtained by the analysis were compared with those obtained by the experiment. By these comparison, the adequacy of the analytical method employed for the design was confirmed. (Aoki, K.).
The lateral bearing device is made of 7 lateral supports, each positioned to allow the displacement of the steam generator due to thermal or seismic effects. Each support includes a buffer plate that can be positioned on the steam generator using a position control assembly. This control assembly consists of a screw jack arrangement where the nut is fastened via an energy absorbing layer to a footplate that is fixed to the concrete wall of the steam generator enclosure. 4 figs.
To get a considerable reduction of the radiotoxicity due to americium, a thermal neutron fluence of 2.10{sup 22} cm{sup -2} or a fast neutron fluence of 2.10{sup 24} cm{sup -2} is required. Irradiation in a thermal neutron flux leads to lower masses of {sup 234}U and precursors and of {sup 237}Np and precursors, but to higher curium masses and much higher neutron emission rates than irradiation in a fast neutron flux. Therefore, irradiation in a fast neutron flux has preference when multiple recycling is adopted. When once-through burning is applied, irradiation in a thermal neutron flux can be applied. Then irradiation in a heavy water reactor (HWR) has preference above irradiation in a PWR or in a high temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR). (authors) 4 refs.
To get a considerable reduction of the radiotoxicity due to americium, a thermal neutron fluence of 2.10{sup 22} cm{sup -2} or a fast neutron fluence of 2.10{sup 24} cm{sup -2} is required. Irradiation in a thermal neutron flux leads to lower masses of {sup 234}U and precursors and of {sup 237}Np and precursors, but to higher curium masses and much higher neutron emission rates than irradiation in a fast neutron flux. Therefore, irradiation in a fast neutron flux has preference when multiple recycling is adopted. When once-through burning is applied, irradiation in a thermal neutron flux can be applied. Then irradiation in a HWR has preference above irradiation in a PWR or in a HTGR. (orig.).
Slow, unexpected displacements have been experienced in most pressurized water reactor (PWR) surge lines. Sometimes, these displacement lead to gap closure at the pipe whip restraints. These movements occur because of thermal stratification. This movement has the potential to increase stresses to valves, which may exceed the material yield stress. To understand this phenomenon, Framatome, Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique, and Electricite de France have undertaken large programs for the study of (1) thermal-hydraulic tests with a half-scale Plexiglas surge line, (2) thermal-hydraulic computations of permanent states and transients with a two-dimensional model, and (3) mechanical analysis of displacements and computation of fatigue damage due to stratification. This paper deals with the last subject. Avoiding stratification in piping by process modifications is difficult because of the high flow rate needed. Alternative solutions for coping with ...
Since 1976, the Nuclear Engineering Laboratory of the Technical Research Centre of Finland and Lappeenranta University of Technology have cooperated in the field of nuclear reactor thermal-hydraulics. During these years, a series of experimental facilities (REWET-I, -II, -III, VEERA) simulating pressurized water reactors (PWRs) have been built. The newest facility, PACTEL (Parallel Channel Test Loop), is an experimental out-of-pile facility designed to simulate the major components and system behaviour of a commercial PWR during postulated small and medium size break loss-of-coolant accidents (LOCAs), natural circulation and operational transients. A PACTEL natural circulation experiment has been carried out as an OECD/NEA international standard problem ISP 33. (2 refs., 3 figs., 2 tabs.).
For shut-down safety of the turbine generator (securing of auxiliary power operation after load shut-down and preventing the reaching of overspeed after load shut-down with disturbed turbine governing system) additional measures compared to those for superheated steam turbines are required for turbine generators in plants with pressurized water reactor (PWR) as well as those with boiling water reactor (BWR) . Equipment is described (e.g. overspeed govern or selecting connection, vacuum breaker, bypass valves, intercepting valves) which, depending on the own conditions of the individual turbine generator (e.g. run-up time, vacuum, enclosed energy), may be applied alone or in jointly. (orig.).
In order to improve the reliability of PWR steam generators, we have performed research to improve the tubing material and tube-support-plate configuration, based on our wide operating experience, and have developed and verified Alloy TT690 as the optimum tubing material and the BEC (Broached Egg Crate) type tube-support design. In the research, we have studied the metallurgical mechanism of the alloy to improve its corrosion resistance, evaluated corrosion susceptible region quantitatively, estimated the actual environment in a steam generator and confirmed the reliability by a model boiler test over a long period. It has been verified that the steam generator with the latest design has higher reliability with respect to the corrosion resistance of tubes. (author).
This book presents the proceedings of a conference dedicated to the design and operation of pipework in all its aspects, involving both metallic and non-metallic materials. Topics considered include a study of single mitre pipe bends using the finite element method; tests to failure of GRP pipe bends under in-plane flexural loading; finite element stress analysis of an equal diameter branch pipe intersection subjected to internal pressure and in-plane moment loadings; finite element stress analysis of extruded outlet tee junctions; design of pipework on the British PWR; a review of advanced remanent life methods for pipes operating in the creep range; pipe whip analysis and design; damping values for piping systems; pipework snubbers based on electro-rheological fluids; and the seismic design of piping systems in the flexible range.
Level 1 and 2 probabilistic safety assessments (PSAs) for both internal and external events are being performed to meet one of the conditions for a construction permit for Wolsong units 2, 3, and 4 in Korea. These units are CANDU-6 Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), and the study is the first comprehensive level 1 and 2 PSAs for CANDU type plants in the world. The detailed PSA includes and extensive fault tree, event tree analysis, human reliability analysis, and common cause failure analysis. Event trees have been developed for 35 internal initiating event groups. The preliminary results show that the total core damage frequency for Wolsong units 2, 3, and 4 each is similar to that for a typical PWR plant. (author).
An overview of LOCA analysis in Japanese industry is presented. The BASH-M code, developed for large scale LOCA reflooding analysis, is given as an example of verification and improvement of US computer programs are given. The code's application to the operational safety analysis concerns the following main areas: 1D drift flux model base computer program CANAC; CANAC-based advanced training simulator; emergency operating procedures. The author considers also the code application to the following new PWR safety design concepts: use of steam generators for decay heat removal at LOCA conditions; use of horizontal type steam generator for maintaining two-phase natural circulation under the reactor coolant system submerged. 9 figs.
Denting phenomenon as experienced in PWR steam generators has been investigated in the laboratory of Monel-400 tubes and C-steel baffles combination. Isothermal corrosion tests have been carried out by exposing capsules, containing a crevice between Monel-400 tubes and C-steel plugs, in plausible corrodents at 300"0C. Results indicated that the denting phenomenon is strongly influenced by the chloride content in the solution. In addition, it is a time dependent process. Stress exerted on the tubes by the growth of corrosion product on the outside surface of C-steel plugs are enough to deform the Monel tubes. The results have been discussed on the basis of accelerated corrosion of C-steel by hydrolyzable metal chlorides. (author).
The Level 1 probabilistic safety assessment (PSA) for Wolsung(WS) 2/3/4 nuclear power plant (NPPs) in design stage is performed using the methodologies being equivalent to PWR PSA. Accident sequence evaluation program (ASEP) human reliability analysis (HRA) procedure and technique for human error rate prediction (THERR) are used in HRA of WS 2/3/4 NPPs PSA. The= purpose of this paper is to introduce the procedure and methodology of HRA in WS 2/3/4 NPPs PSA. Also, this paper describes the interim results of importance analysis for human actions modeled in WS 2/3/4 PSA and the findings and recommendations of administrative control of secondary control area from the view of human factors. (Author) 10 refs., 2 tabs.
The Level 1 probabilistic safety assessment (PSA) for Wolsong(WS) 2/3/4 nuclear power plant(NPPs) in design stage is performed using the methodologies being equivalent to PWR PSA. Accident sequence evaluation program (ASEF) human reliability analysis (HRA) procedure and technique for human error rate prediction (THERP) are used in HRA of WS 2/3/4 NPPs PSA. The purpose of this paper is to introduce the procedure and methodology of HRA in WS 2/3/4 NPPs PSA. Also, this paper describes the interim results of importance analysis for human actions modeled in WS 2/3/4 PSA and the findings and recommendations of administrative control of secondary control area from the view of human factors.
Sizewell B is Nuclear Electric's latest power station, and the Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) design on which it is based represents a ''first'' for the UK. One of the integral components of the plant is the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system, which performs a contamination control and gaseous waste management function for the site. During the commissioning of Sizewell B Power Station the extract systems of the HVAC plant underwent a procedure known as ''fingerprinting''. This entailed the characterisation of the facilities provided to test the filtration plant during its lifetime. The assessment of their adequacy was then used to identify necessary modifications and/or to propose the manner in which future in situ performance testing would be carried out. The paper outlines the basic principles and procedure that was used to ''fingerprint'' test systems during the commissioning of Sizewell B. A specific example is presented to demonstrate the ...
The present paper deals with the experimental determination of pressure drop across a four-cusped vertical channel. This geometry represents, ideally, the blockage condition in a typical pressurized water reactor with core degraded by accident. Experiments were performed for both single and two-phase flow. Water was utilized for the single-phase measurements whilst simultaneous flow of air and water simulated the steam-water flow. Observation of the prevailing two-phase flow regime was carried out, so that its mechanism could be fully understood. The averaged void fraction was also measured, by the gamma-ray attenuation technique. A wide range of water and air mass flow rates was covered, so that all flow conditions, possible to exist in a reactor with LOCA, could be investigated. New correlations for pressure drop are proposed. (Author).
Steam generator tubes in nuclear power plants are periodically checked by means of eddy current probes. The output of a probe is composed of three types of signals: known events (rolling zone, support plates, U-bend part), noise (mainly metallurgical noise) and possible flaws. The latter are random transients, both in arrival time and in shape: they have to be detected and then estimated, before to be fed to the high level stages of a diagnostic system. The objective of the study presented is to develop a semi-automatic system, which could manage and process more than 1 M-bytes of data per tube and provide an operator with reliable diagnostics proposals within a few minutes. This can be achieved only by cooperation of several digital signal processing techniques: detection, segmentation, estimation, noise subtraction, adaptive filtering, modelization, pattern recognition. The paper describes some of these items.
We report on severe accident scenarios consequences evaluation in connection to the applied emergency countermeasures and use of the PC COSYMA code. We present some of the results for the reactor core melt accident assumed to happen at the 632 MWE PWR Krsko Nuclear Power Plant in Slovenia. The efficiency of several potential countermeasures in limiting the late health effects was studied. Regarding the source term, the majority of release parameters are as specified for category 2 in the German Risk Study. Site specific data were used. As the outside (meteorologic) conditions during the potential accident onset can be very different, the study limited to the deterministic runs, assuming the wind direction upstream the Sava river into the WNW direction, wind speed of 5 ms -1 and the C Pasquill stability category. The population distribution file was formed from the NEK-FSAR data for the 1991. (author)
The development of new electro-optical instrumentation for studying the annular dispersed two-phase flow regime is described. The system measures the thickness of the water film and droplet size and velocity distributions which would be encountered in such a flow regime. The water film thickness is measured by an improved capacitance method with a short time constant using newly developed sensor electrodes. The electrodes are made flush with the inner wall of a cylindrical tube and do not disturb the flow. In the test equipment, steady, laminar flow of water along the inner wall of the tube is controlled by appropriate valves and a porous jacket while droplets are introduced by means of a special spray nozzle.
The CO laser is superior in the absorption characteristic to materials to the CO2 laser due to its shorter wavelength. In consideration of this characteristic Nuclear Power Engineering Corporation is studying this applicability sponsored by the Ministry of International Trade Industry of Japan to cutting of reactor core internals of commercial nuclear power plant. In decommissioning of reactor core internals it is necessary to cut stainless steel plates of 305 mm thick. The authors cut stainless steel plates of up to 310mm thick in air and those of up to 150 mm thick underwater with a 20kW class laser. Further, models simulating key structural elements of PWR core internals were cut and secondary products to clarify the applicability of the CO laser cutting to reactor core internals were evaluated. (author)
Problems are discussed of heat exchange tubes of Westinghouse type vertical steam generators exhibiting corrosion damage such as point corrosion, planar corrosion, tube denting, corrosion stress cracking, crevice corrosion, fretting corrosion and intergranular corrosion. Attention is also paid to problems of WWER-440 type horizontal steam generators, where the level fluctuation area is critical; noncompact porous deposits of the corrosion products give rise to crevice effects and cause significant concentration of chloride ions and other additions. This problem can be partly resolved by a modification of the collector design at the level variation area. An additional measure is the production of steel 08Kh18N10T with a very low level of harmful elements and inclusions. (Z.M.). 3 figs., 11 refs.
This report discusses the work done on EPRI program S149-1. In this program the feasibility of cleaning steam generators off line with organic chelants as a means of arresting denting corrosion was investigated. The rationale behind this program is to make use of those periods during which nuclear steam generators are in cold shutdown or wet layup to carry out a low-temperature soak with a combined chelant-inhibitor solution in order to dissolve some of the magnetite which has built up in crevices and to concomitantly remove entrained corrodents such as chloride ion. It was hoped that these soaks would be effective in reducing carbon steel support plate corrosion which produces tube denting.
The CERL Code was developed to describe the solution chemistry of the water on the steam generating side of PWR reactors. It is designed to calculate the equilibrium species distribution resulting from the interaction of impurities, corrosion products, and additives in the aqueous solution. It calculates the extent of ion-ion interactions, the precipitation of insoluble species and the amount of solute that partitions into the vapor phase when some of the water evaporates. This knowledge of the bulk phase equilibrium distribution of species, especially the pH should be useful in describing the corrosion processes at the solid liquid boundary. The code does not calculate any changes in oxidation states or any rates of reaction. Therefore, it is incapable of calculating the actual corrosion rates. It is anticipated that it will be used as a subprogram of a larger program that will include the redox reactions and the rates of the reactions. The purpose of the code at ...
Blowdown thrust forces and decompression characteristics were evaluated concerning the jet discharge or pipe whip tests with a 4-inch or 6-inch diameter pipe under PWR LOCA or BWR LOCA conditions related to pipe rupture accidents in nuclear power plants. This paper presents experimental evaluations of time-dependent and maximum blowdown thrust forces, and evaluations of decompression characteristics under instantaneous pipe rupture conditions. The following items are discussed: the peak value of the blowdown thrust force, the jet thrust coefficient for the maximum blowdown thrust force, the pressure recovery after break, and the relationship between the pressure undershoot of the sudden decompression and the decompression rate.
After a brief review of the degradations occurring on tubes of Inconel 600 in steam generators of PWR power stations emphasis is put on the conditioning of the secondary water and more particularly on the condensate treatment in the units of Doel which work on heavily polluted brackish water. The important role of non-destructive testing and eddy-current testing is also pointed out, method developed by Laborelec. The operational experience shows that Belgian stations are nearly not concerned by the degradations mostly found in power stations in other countries which shows the efficiency of the conditioning of the secondary water. On the other hand, other problems have occurred, resulting from: damage caused by foreign objects; fouling of tube before commissioning, cracking of bends and at the limit of the dudgeoning and leaking plugs. (AF).
Recently, the leak-before-break (LBB) concept has been used successfully to eliminate some pipe whip restraints, snubbers and jet impingement shields from the primary reactor cooling system piping of pressurized water reactors. This has resulted in substantial savings in maintenance costs, reductions in radiation exposure of plant service personnel, and has enhanced the overall safety of nuclear power plants. This study provides guidelines to utilities in expanding the application of the LBB concept to additional pipe systems and it couples the concept with hardware optimization. Seven high energy piping systems were investigated for technical feasibility in using the LBB concept. The results indicate that some of these seven lines are good candidates for the leak-before-break application.
Alloy 800 has been used by Siemens since 1968 and is now used by KWU for U-tubed steam generators in PWR's. The particular grade of alloy 800 that is used is within the ASTM-Specification B 163, but there have been modifications in composition to improve the corrosion resistance. First the permitted upper limit of carbon was reduced to 0.04% and was then further reduced to 0.03% and a stabilisation ratio of Ti : C >= 12 and Ti : C + N >= 8 was specified. The minimum permitted chromium and nickel levels were increased to 20% and 32% respectively. The maximum permitted levels of other elements or impurities were reduced. At the final fabrication stage peening with glass beads on the outer surface was specified to introduce a compressive stress to depth greater than that allowed for production flaws. An account is given of the behaviour of the alloy in service in four power plants already in operation, and future developments are discussed. (author).
To estimate the success criteria of an operators action time for a probabilistic safety/risk assessment (PSA/PRA) of a nuclear power plant, the information from a safety analysis report (SAR) and/or that by using a simplified simulation code such as the MAAP code has been used in a conventional PSA. However, the information from these is often too conservative to perform a realistic PSA for a risk-informed application. To reduce the undue conservatism, the use of a best-estimate thermal hydraulic code has become an essential issue in the latest PSA and it is now recognized as a suitable tool. In the same context, the `ASME PRA standard' also recommends the use of a best-estimate code to improve the quality of a PSA. In Korea, a platform to use a best-estimate thermal hydraulic code called ...
The deliveration by the Nuclear Safety Commission was commenced on the alteration in reactor installation, as it had been inquired by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry. The alteration is the additional installation of the reactor No. 2 in the Sendai Nuclear Power Station, Kyushu Electric Power Co., Inc. It is a PWR power plant with thermal output of about 2,660 MW (electric output of 890 MW), to be installed, adjoining to the reactor No. 1 of the same type and capacity under construction. In the examination by MITI, it was confirmed that the technological capabilities for its construction and operation and the radiation protection measures in power generation are both sufficient. The contents of the examination include the siting conditions, the location and construction of reactor facilities, etc. (J.P.N.).
The deliberation by the Nuclear Safety Commission was initiated on the alteration in reactor installation, as was required by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry. The alteration is the additional installation of the reactor No. 2 in the Sendai Nuclear Power Station, Kyushu Electric Power Co., Inc. It is a PWR power plant with thermal output of about 2,660 MW (electric output of 890 MW), to be installed, adjoining to the reactor No. 1 of the same type and capacity under construction. In the examination by MITI, it was confirmed that the technological capabilities for its construction and operation and the radiation protection measures in power generation are both sufficient. The contents of the examination include the siting conditions, the location and construction of reactor facilities, etc.
Presently, industrial maturity can be claimed for two fuel cycle strategies, viz. the 'Once Through Fuel Cycle' (OTC), and the 'Reprocessing Fuel Cycle' (RFC) in which plutonium and very limited uranium quantities are being recycled. It is helpful to recall some key data that set the stage for any discussion of fuel cycle options: 1. Worldwide, the annual spent fuel discharge is in the range of 10500-11000 t heavy-metal (HM), while the industrial reprocessing capacity amounts to #approx# 5000 t HM (OECD NUCLEAR ENERGY AGENCY, Accelerator-driven Systems (ADS) and Fast Reactors (FR) in Advanced Nuclear Fuel Cycles: a Comparative Study, Paris, 2002). Hence, less than 1/2 of the discharged spent fuel can be processed. 2. Worldwide, the cumulative inventory of stored spent fuel is estimated to be #approx# 190000 t HM, and the ...
Consolidation of spent fuel is under active consideration as the US Department of Energy plans to dispose of spent fuel. During consolidation, the fuel pins are removed from an intact fuel assembly and repackaged into a more compact configuration. After repackaging, approximately 30 kg of residual spent fuel assembly hardware per assembly remains that is also radioactive and requires disposal. Understanding the nature of this secondary waste stream is critical to designing a system that will properly handle, package, store, and dispose of the waste. This report presents a methodology for estimating the radionuclide inventory in irradiated spent fuel hardware. Ratios are developed that allow the use of ORIGEN2 computer code calculations to be applied to regions that are outside the fueled region. The ratios are based on the analysis of ...
The results of calculational comparative study into radiotoxicity and residual power release time dependences for spent uranium-plutonium and thorium-uranium nuclear fuels from the WWER-1000 reactors during ling- time (up to 300 thousand years) storage are discussed. It is shown that the total radiotoxicities for actinides from uranium, uranium-plutonium and thorium-uranium spent fuels at storage period begin amount to 5.2 x 10"1"4, 1.3 x 10"1"5 and 1.5 x 10"1"4 kg of water per 1 t of discharged fuel, respectively. Radiotoxicity of actinides in uranium-plutonium fuel is revealed to be by the factor of 2.5 greater than that for ordinary uranium fuel because of greater accumulation of "2"3"9Pu, "2"4"0Pu, "2"4"1Pu and "2"4"4Cm. Radiotoxicity of actinides for thorium-uranium fuel calculated taking into account "2"3"4U is estimated to be by the factor 3.5 smaller ...
This paper describes Automatic Refueling Planning System (ARPS) for a nuclear power station using Genetic Algorithms (GA) and a Simulated Annealing (SA). ARPS has been developed and verified by applying to the Fugen nuclear power station (NPS), which is a 165MWe, heavy water-moderated, boiling light water-cooled, pressure tube-type reactor developed by JNC utilizing mainly uranium and plutonium mixed oxide (MOX) fuel. Fuel loading patterns have been managed independently in the Fugen NPS since the initial core. A planning of an adequate fuel loading pattern on each operational cycle needs one to two months even for expert core management engineers, for the reason that it has multi-objective optimization and nonlinear problems. In order to achieve the optimum fuel loading pattern and a fuel cost reduction, ARPS has been developed by JNC and CRC Solutions Corporation for the last five ...
A gas-diesel dual fuel engine apparatus is described having a diesel engine, a diesel fuel supply system including a diesel fuel injection pump, a gaseous fuel supply system including a gaseous fuel regulating valve, and a governing and controlling device for governing the speed of the engine through the control of fuel supplied to the engine and controlling the switchover of the operation of the engine between a diesel fuel mode and a gaseous fuel mode. The improvement of the governing and controlling device consists of: (a) at least one electronic governor means adapted to compare a speed signal representing the actual operating speed of the diesel engine with a set speed signal representing the set speed thereof; (b) a pair of electric actuator means having respective power amplifier circuits and mechanically ...
There are five tasks within this project on thermally stable coal-based jet fuels. Progress on each of the tasks is described. Task 1, Investigation of the quantitative degradation chemistry of fuels, has 5 subtasks which are described: Literature review on thermal stability of jet fuels; Pyrolytic and catalytic reactions of potential endothermic fuels: cis- and trans-decalin; Use of site specific {sup 13}C-labeling to examine the thermal stressing of 1-phenylhexane: A case study for the determination of reaction kinetics in complex fuel mixtures versus model compound studies; Estimation of critical temperatures of jet fuels; and Surface effects on deposit formation in a flow reactor system. Under Task 2, Investigation of incipient deposition, the subtask reported is Uncertainty analysis on growth and deposition of particles during heating of coal-derived ...
...00 Add to Cart Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells: Modeling , Analysis, Simulation, and Control by Kai Sundmacher (Editor), Achim Kienle (Editor), Hans Josef Pesch (Editor), Joachim F. Berndt (Editor), Gerhard Huppmann (Editor) ...
fuel are produced from a barrel of crude oil by U.S. refiners. Other products such as jet fuel and heating oil make up the remaining one third. Graphic of a barrel of oil...
With specific energy of more than 200 Wh/kg, the Electric Fuel zinc-air battery delivers as much as eight times the energy of lead-acid traction battery, more than twice the energy of the nearest advanced-battery competitor, and as much energy as a tank of gasoline. (author)
The feasibility of using three different solid fuels in chemical-looping combustion (CLC) has been investigated using NiO as oxygen carrier. A laboratory fluidized-bed reactor system for solid fuel was used, simulating a chemical-looping combustion system by exposing the sample to alternating reducing and oxidizing conditions. In each reducing phase 0.2g of fuel was added to the reactor containing 20g oxygen carrier. The experiments were performed at 970{sup o}C. Compared to previously published results with other oxygen carriers the reactivity of the used Ni-particles was considerably lower for the high-sulphur fuel and higher for the low-sulphur fuel. Much more unconverted CO was released and the fuel conversion was much slower for high-sulphur fuel such as petroleum coke, suggesting that the nickel-based oxygen carrier was deactivated by ...
The characteristics of diesel fuel jet atomization in carburetors depend on dynamic viscosity (v) density (d) and surface tension (st) of fuel, grouped in the combined functions v/d; st/v and st/d. Values of these combined functions for binary mixtures of a farm diesel fuel with a crude vegetable oil (sunflower, soybean, cotton and foot-cake olive oils) as well as with a used frying olive oil, are calculated. Three different diesel fuels have been studied. Combined function values of these mixtures are influenced by the characteristics of their diesel fuel. Mixtures containing less than 24% of any studied crude oils show kinematic viscosity values at 40 degrees C not exceeding 5.8 squared millimeters/s. This value is the higher limit for typical United States farm diesel fuels, according to specifications of the Cummins Engine Company. Mixture with 21% of the ...
This plan describes the Quality Assurance Program which will be applied to spent fuel handling and packaging tests conducted at the Area 25 E-MAD facility, Nevada Test Site (NTS).
Full load (186 kW/cyl) operation using CWS fuel at 1050 rpm has been achieved on single cylinder GE-7FDL test engine. No major changes in engine parameters were made. With normal inlet air conditions, 3-5% pilot deisel fuel, separately injected or stratified into the main coal charge, was used. Inlet air temperature had to be raised about 40/sup 0/C if no pilot diesel fuel was used. The coal burnout was about 95% and the cycle efficiency was comparable to using diesel fuel. The NO/sub x/ and CO emissions were about 1/2 of those obtained normally with deisel fuel. The maximum heat release rate was higher than diesel fuel operation which resulted in higher maximum cylinder firing pressure. The combustion characteristic and its dependence on some fuel characteristics and inlet air parameters are discussed. Increasing coal burnout while limiting ...
This study investigated the engine performance and emissions of a supercharged dual-fuel engine fueled by hydrogen-rich coke oven gas and ignited by a pilot amount of diesel fuel. The engine was tested for use as a cogeneration engine, so power output while maintaining a reasonable thermal efficiency was important. Experiments were carried out at a constant pilot injection pressure and pilot quantity for different fuel-air equivalence ratios and at various injection timings without and with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). The experimental strategy was to optimize the injection timing to maximize engine power at different fuel-air equivalence ratios without knocking and within the limit of the maximum cylinder pressure. The engine was tested first without EGR condition up to the maximum possible fuel-air equivalence ratio of 0.65. A maximum indicated mean ...
A reactor was proposed in which the breeder mantel would consist of a charge of homogeneous cast breeder elements, so that the breeder element has the same shape as the fuel elements. By this method it would be possible to use the breeder element after its irradiation immediately for the charging of the fuel elements.
A controlled fire burner was constructed where various natural vegetation species could be used as fuel. The burner was equipped with thermocouples to measure fuel surface temperature and used as a...Full Text Available
Electricity markets in the United States are undergoing unprecedented structural changes as a result of the confluence of regulatory, competitive, and technological forces. This paper introduces these structural changes and forces and discuss the implications, markets and commercialization scenarios for emerging fuel cells in evolving US electricity markets.
Persistently high concentrations of carbon monoxide and low-altitude ozone in the air of the Nation's major urban centers led Congress in the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments to mandate changes to the composition of gasoline and diesel fuel. Those gasoline c...
Estimates of annual rates of change of fuel switching are constructed using logistic curve models fitted to often sparse historical data on fuel use in the USA. The estimated annual rate of loss of market share of an old fuel is then shown to be correlated with five-year averages of declines in the rate of growth of affected vehicle numbers. Other statistical tests show a positive correlation between five-year average changes in the rate of growth of the vehicle numbers and of macroeconomic activity when the affected vehicles are directly responsible for a large share of that activity. The vehicle types shown to have this effect are locomotives from 1885-1915 and automobiles thereafter. The third set of tests supports an interpretation that the indirect effects of fuel switches are significant and consistent with GNP throughout the 1880-1980 period. It is shown that a pronounced drop in GNP growth ...
The patent relates to fluid operated devices for moving articles. The machine may be used in filling a nuclear fuel canister with fuel pellets where there is a tendency for out of squareness of pellets to produce a jam condition readily cleared by a modest force. (U.K.).
In 1983, the first modern urban transit bus powered by an alternative transportation fuel took to the roads in the USA. A little more than a decade later, about 2.5% of all USA buses are powered by alternative transportation fuels and about 20% of the new bus orders for delivery by 1998 will be powered by alternative fuels, mostly by natural gas. There are over 2,200 natural gas buses in operation or on order, plus about 600 additional buses powered by other alternative fuels. When these orders are completed, alternative fuel buses will constitute over 4.4% of the urban bus fleet in the USA. The widespread use of natural gas buses in the USA provides an important transition pathway for hydrogen vehicles because of the similarities between distribution, refueling and onboard energy storage technologies for the two fuels. Projects demonstrating advanced ...
High-burnup mixed oxide fuel pins from the Fast-Flux Test Facility (FFTF) reactor were sheared in a single-pin shear, dissolved in nitric acid, and then used in solvent extraction tests to assist in establishing operating parameters for fuel recycle facilities. The fuel burnups were 2, 36, 55, and 90 MWd/kg for initial cooling times of 2.5, 1.3, 1, and 1 year, respectively. These tests include the first experiments using fuel of approximately the reference burnup (80-MWd/kg peak burnup) irradiated under reference conditions. The FFTF is a sodium-cooled reactor with stainless steel-clad fuel; the oxide fuel, which is of two compositions, has Pu/(U + Pu) ratios of approx.0.225 and 0.275. The peak fuel center temperature was about 1640/sup 0/C, the peak internal cladding temperature was approx.530/sup 0/C, the peak heat rating was approx.300 ...
Activated charcoal which is the desulfurizing agent for the fuel cell plant can be used only at the normal temperature, and it must be placed upstream of the fuel gas, increasing the displacement flow of the fuel gas processed in the desulfurizer. In addition, a large quantity of activated charcoal must be filled or the frequency of its exchange must be increased because activated charcoal used at the normal temperature has little sulfur absorbing capacity. This invention is concerned with provision of a desulfurizer in the downstream of the fuel gas compressor of the fuel cell plant to remove sulfur content in the fuel gas by this desulfurizer. As a result, the displacement flow of the processing gas is decreased to increase the processing capacity of the desulfurizing agent. In addition, hydrogen recycling can be eliminated to realize compact arrangement of ...
There is a great demand for the reduction of specific fuel consumption in diesel engines, and also of NO/sub x/ emission in especially those designed for use on land. However, while improving combustion, a problem arises in trying to reduce both simultaneously because the techniques required are contradictory. This series of experiments was done to study the correlation between specific fuel consumption and NO/sub x/ emission. The research was conducted under variations in engine parameters and operating conditions. The variations studied included effects of pressure, temperature and humidity of the charging air, temperature of the cooling water, timing and rate of fuel injection, fuel injection nozzle, EGR and water-emulsified fuel. The results of the tests clarified the characteristics of the specific fuel consumption and NO/sub x/ emission and indicated that ...
Legal aspects of using natural gas as boiler fuel for electric utilities are reviewed through one utility's challenges to the Power Plant and Industrial Fuel Use implementation. ASARCO vs. FPC, 1973, and City of Willcox vs. FPC are discussed. (PSB)
The Electric Power Monthly (EPM) presents monthly electricity statistics for a wide audience including Congress, Federal and State agencies, the electric utility industry, and the general public. The purpose of this publication is to provide energy decisionmakers with accurate and timely information that may be used in forming various perspectives on electric issues that lie ahead. The Coal and Electric Data and Renewables Division; Office of Coal, Nuclear, Electric and Alternate Fuels, Energy Information Administration (EIA), Department of Energy prepares the EPM. This publication provides monthly statistics at the State, Census division, and US levels for net generation, fossil fuel consumption and stocks, quantity and quality of fossil fuels, cost of fossil fuels, electricity sales, revenue, and average revenue per kilowatthour of electricity sold. Data on net generation, fuel ...
This report contains the study on the dynamic characteristics of Wolsung fuel rod and on the dynamic balancing of rotating machinery to evaluate the performance of nuclear reactor components. The study on the dynamic characteristics of Wolsung fuel rod wa...
the Advanced Distillation Curve, Energy & Fuels, Vol. 22, No. 2, pp. 11041114. http://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/ef700562c. Lemmon, E. W., Huber, M. L., ...
The techniques of thermogravimetry and derivative thermogravimetry (dTG) have been applied to a range of fuel oils and two 'fingerprinting' tests have been developed, one using an inert and the other an oxidizing atmosphere. These tests have been named evaporation profile and burning profile. 4 refs.
Short-lived fission gas release from fuel pellets during irradiation was investigated based on the experimental results of the gas-flow rigs irradiated in the Halden Heavy Water Reactor (HBWR). The release-to-birth (R/B) rates of short-lived fission gas were measured by means of gas-flow measurement during the irradiation experiments. Surface-to-volume (S/V) ratios of fuel pellets and diffusion coefficients of short-lived fission gas release were evaluated from the obtained (R/B) values. The increase of (S/V) ratio agreed well with the point where the fuel temperature exceeded the threshold of 1% fission gas release. This indicates that the interlinkage of fission gas bubbles occurred there. The evaluated diffusion coefficients scattered in the range between 10"-"2"3 and 10"-"1"7 m"2/s, and the effects of fuel type (UO_2 or MOX) were not clearly observed. In addition, it is likely that the restructuring ...
Chemical-looping combustion (CLC), has previously been studied as a method for separating CO{sub 2} during combustion of gaseous fuels. In this project the possibility to apply this process for direct use of solid fuels has been investigated. The following has been accomplished: A 10 kW reactor system for CLC with solid fuels has been designed and built. Tests with solid fuel and metal oxid particles in a laboratory reactor show that it is possible to oxidize solid fuels with metal oxide particles in cyclic testing, thus giving proof of basic concept. They also show how the reaction rate is affected by temperature, steam concentration etc., and, most important of all, that the rates of reaction are realistic. Tests with metal oxide materials available at low costs have been successful. Chemical-looping combustion with solid fuels has a potential to achieve very ...
The use and costs of auxiliary fuels in US ferrous blast furnaces in 1978 and 1980, years noted for high and low imports of blast furnace coke respectively, are analyzed and the results are presented in tables. A short-term forecast of use is made.
Jun 16, 2011 ... Results indicated that fuel loadings averaged 24.05 Mg ha 1 in 2004–2006. Forest litter decreased from wetter to drier forest life zones. ...
In nuclear fuel with a burn-up of 33 kg/t U and 52 kg/t U 15 transuranium nuclides /sup 237/Np to /sup 246/Cm have been determined by alpha and gamma spectroscopy after radiochemical separation.
Improved test techniques are needed for evaluating the inherent stability of middle distillate fuels both in surveillance and in procurement activities. A project was initiated to define and evaluate the contributing conditions leading to the formation of deleterious products in accelerated aging tests of middle distillate fuels and to relate these results to an experimental definition of more repeatable/reliable middle distillate fuel stability test technique(s). A literature search was conducted to provide a list of stability test techniques and their interpretations which could be used in a correlative middle distillate fuel stability test program. For this program, seven accelerated stability tests were chosen and evaluated using a set of six test fuels. The test techniques were selected to represent a wide variety of test conditions, including temperature, aging time, and ...
Fuel treatments are being widely implemented on public and private lands across the western U.S. While scientists and managers have an understanding of how ... ...
...Amendments to Sections 8-2:704 (Use of Certain Fuel Oils Forbidden), 8-2:705 (Use of Certain Coal Forbidden...and Nitrogen Oxides. Section 801(Sulfur Content of Fuel Oils), subsection 801.1 Section 802(Sulfur...
A 300 W fuel cell power pack has been developed for educational purposes in close collaboration with the Fachhochschule Solothurn Nordwestschweiz. The project was initiated and financed by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy. The outlay and the performance of the power pack are described. (author) 3 figs.
The objective of this work is a study for the application of a new technology that will be used in the engine management system in the vehicle; where the final consumer can opt for the inquiry performance or seeking an economy for the fuel consumption depending on its daily use and of the prices offered in the gas stations. Flexible Fuel is a technology in development for the automobile market that mixes the use of two fuels (gasoline and ethanol) and their mixtures in the internal combustion engine. (author)
Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are energy conversion devices that produce electricity from a supply of fuel, such as hydrogen. One of the major challenges in achieving efficient energy conversion is the development of cost-effective materials that can act as electrocatalysts for PEMFCs. In this letter, we demonstrate that, instead of conventional noble metals, such as platinum, chromium nitride nanocrystals of fcc structure exhibit attractive catalytic activity for PEMFCs. Device testing indicates good stability of nitride nanocrystals in low temperature fuel cell operational environment.
This report describes an improved method of remotely identifying irradiated nuclear fuel assemblies. The method uses existing in-cell TV cameras to input an image of the notch-coded top of the fuel assemblies into a computer vision system, which then produces the identifying number for that assembly. This system replaces systems that use either a mechanical mechanism to feel the notches or use human operators to locate notches visually. The system was developed for identifying fuel assemblies from the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) and the Clinch River Breeder Reactor, but could be used for other reactor assembly identification, as appropriate.
Knock limitations are investigated using natural gas, with diesel pilot ignition, as a fuel for the 3406 DI-TA Caterpillar diesel engine. Thermodynamic properties at TDC are generated by computer and compared with experimental results. Exhaust emissions are analyzed. A comparison is made of dual-fuel operation relative to diesel. Observations are made to determine the onset of knock. The onset of knock is characterized as a function of engine speed, load, inlet manifold temperature, and air-fuel ratio (A/F). The conditions at the inset of knock are determined using cylinder pressure data. The most efficient operating range is determined with knock avoidance as a prime parameter.
Correct prediction of the fission products inventory in irradiated nuclear fuels is essential for accurate estimation of fuel burnup, establishing proper requirements for spent fuel transportation and storage, materials accountability and nuclear forensics. Such prediction is impossible without accurate knowledge of neutron induced fission yields. The uncertainty of the fission yields reported in the ENDF/B-VII.0 library is not uniform across all of the data and much of the improvement is desired for certain fissioning isotopes and fission products. We discuss our measurements of cumulative fission yields in nuclear fuels irradiated in thermal and fast reactor spectra using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry.
This instructional unit is one of 10 developed by students on various energy-related areas that deals specifically with fireplaces and fuels. Its objective is for the student to be able to discuss the structural design, operation, and efficiency of fireplaces and characteristics of different fireplace fuels. Some topics covered are fuels, elements of the fire triangle, factors relating to high efficiency of masonry fireplaces, uses of grates and chimney, heat recovery, and prefabricated and free standing fireplaces. Materials in each unit may include some or all of the following: terminal and specific objectives, list of references, information sheet with terms and definitions, informative materials, transparency masters, assignment sheet(s), and unit test with answers. (YLB)
Synthetic fuels differ in the nature and order of magnitude of the environmental impacts associated with their production. Some types pose much more intractable problems, with oil shale leading the list. Perceptions of the difficulty of these environmental problems will continue to shift over time as more research and experimentation is done. It is critical that the development of synthetic fuels move slowly and deliberately so as not to get ahead of researched solutions nor to create environmental burdens that outweigh the social benefits of increased energy production. The Synthetic Fuels Corporation is taking the opposite approach in dispensing funds to all takers. 65 references.
Earlier work carried out on the hydrogen-diesel dual-fuel engine indicates that knock sets in when the inducted hydrogen exceeds about 60% of input energy with a pilot quantity of 30% of full load diesel amount. Some of the findings of an investigation into knock-free performance of a hydrogen-diesel dual-fuel engine with the addition of a diluent-carbon dioxide are presented. The effects of carbon dioxide on the suppression of knocking in the hydrogen-diesel dual-fuel engine and on the improvement in the knock limited power output are described.
Approximately 8% of the spent nuclear fuel owned by the US Department of Energy is clad with aluminum alloys. The spent fuel must be either reprocessed or temporarily stored in wet or dry storage systems until a decision is made on final disposition in a repository. There are corrosion issues associated with the aluminum cladding regardless of the disposition pathway selected. This paper discusses those issues and provides data and analysis to demonstrate that control of corrosion induced degradation in aluminum clad spent fuels can be achieved through relatively simple engineering practices.
This paper is based on research on the combustion ignition dual-fuel engine conducted at the Zhejiang Agricultural University. The properties of compressed biogas, its performance characteristics in the compression ignited dual-fuel engine as well as the possibilities and needs for its use are discussed. Using information derived from experimental data compiled by the laboratory, analyses and comparisons have been made between high- and low-pressure biogas used in the compression ignition dual-fuel engine with respect to variation of power and the corresponding characteristic curve of the engine. The economic effects of utilizing compressed biogas are also discussed. (author).