IEA-R1 research reactor: operational life extension and considerations regarding future decommissioning

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Frajndlich, Roberto

2009-01-01

The IEA-R1 reactor is a pool type research reactor moderated and cooled by light water and uses graphite and beryllium reflectors. The reactor is located at the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN/SP), in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. It is the oldest research reactor in the southern hemisphere and one of the oldest of this kind in the world. The first criticality of the reactor was obtained on September 16, 1957. Given the fact that Brazil does not have yet a definitive radioactive waste repository and a national policy establishing rules for the spent fuel storage, the institutions which operate the research reactors for more than 50 years in the country have searched internal solutions for continued operation. This paper describes the spent fuel assemblies and radioactive waste management process for the IEA-R1 reactor and the refurbishment and modernization program adopted to extend its lifetime. Some considerations about the future decommissioning of the reactor are also discussed which, in my opinion, might help the operating organization to make decisions about financial, legal and technical aspects of the decommissioning procedures in a time frame of 10-15 years(author)

NBR ISO 9001 Certification for activities carried out in IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Paiva, Rosemeire P.; Salvetti, Tereza C.

2005-01-01

Since its inauguration in 1957, the IEA-R1 research reactor has been used mainly for research, development and teaching by scientific community. In the last years, with the increase of the commercial radiopharmaceutical production by Radiopharmacy Center of IPEN, the IEA-R1 reactor was recognized as a service supplier for that center and has received a treatment more commercial from IPEN Management. In 1999 the radiopharmaceutical production obtained the NBR ISO 9002 Certification, since that the IPEN Management considered convenient to invest in the certification of its internal suppliers. In this context, in 2001 the Research Reactor Center (CRPq) began the implantation of a Quality Management System (QMS) based on NBR 9001: 2000 standard, for activities related to the operation and maintenance of the IEA-R1 research reactor and irradiation services. This QMS was structured to incorporate tools already implemented in order to complain the requirements related to nuclear and radiological safe for a nuclear installation established by the regulatory organism. The QMS is supported by a documentation system composed of approximately 150 documents including quality manual, business and action plans, operational procedures and work instruction. Carlos Alberto Vanzolini Foundation (FCAV), an INMETRO certified organism, certified the 'Operation and Maintenance of the IEA-R1 Research Reactor and Irradiation Services' in December 2002. In 2003 and 2004, the QMS was audited by FCAV that determined the maintenance of the certification. This work presents the main steps of the QMS implementation, including the difficulties found and results obtained in the process. (author)

FiR 1 reactor in service for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) and isotope production

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Auterinen, I.; Salmenhaara, S.E.J. . Author

2004-01-01

The FiR 1 reactor, a 250 kW Triga reactor, has been in operation since 1962. The main purpose for the existence of the reactor is now the Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT), but FiR 1 has also an important national role in providing local enterprises and research institutions in the fields of industrial measurements, pharmaceuticals, electronics etc. with isotope production and activation analysis services. In the 1990's a BNCT treatment facility was built at the FiR 1 reactor located at Technical Research Centre of Finland. A special new neutron moderator material Fluental TM (Al+AlF3+Li) developed at VTT ensures the superior quality of the neutron beam. Also the treatment environment is of world top quality after a major renovation of the whole reactor building in 1997. Recently the lithiated polyethylene neutron shielding of the beam aperture was modified to ease the positioning of the patient close to the beam aperture. Increasing the reactor power to 500 kW would allow positioning of the patient further away from the beam aperture. Possibilities to accomplish a safety analysis for this is currently under considerations. Over thirty patients have been treated at FiR 1 since May 1999, when the license for patient treatment was granted to the responsible BNCT treatment organization, Boneca Corporation. Currently three clinical trial protocols for tumours in the brain as well as in the head and neck region are recruiting patients. (author)

Evaluation of power behavior during startup and shutdown procedures of the IPR-R1 Triga Reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zangirolami, Dante M.; Mesquita, Amir Z.; Ferreira, Andrea V.

2009-01-01

The IPR-R1 nuclear reactor of Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear - CDTN/CNEN is a TRIGA Mark I pool type reactor cooled by natural circulation of light water. In the IPR-R1, the power is measured by four nuclear channels, neutron-sensitive chambers, which are mounted around the reactor core: the Startup Channel for power indication during reactor startup; the Logarithmic Wide Range Power Monitoring Channel; the Linear Multi-Range Power Monitoring Channel and the Percent Power Safety Channel. A data acquisition system automatically does the monitoring and storage of all the reactor operational parameters including the reactor power. The startup procedure is manual and the time to reach the desired reactor power level is different on each irradiation which may introduces differences in induced activity of samples irradiated in different irradiations. In this work, the power evolution during startup and shutdown periods of IPR-R1 operation was evaluated and the mean values of reactor energy production in these operational phases were obtained. The analyses were performed on basis of the Linear Multi-Range Channel data. The results show that the sum of startup and shutdown periods corresponds to 1% of released energy for irradiations during 1h at 100kW. This value may be useful to correct experimental data in neutron activation experiments. (author)

An improved slow neutron spectrometer at nuclear research reactor et-r r-1. Vol. 2

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Abu El-Ela, M A [Reactor and Neutron Physics, Nuclear Research Center, AEA, Cairo (Egypt)

1996-03-01

An improved slow neutron selector has been aligned at channel number 6 of the nuclear research reactor ET-R R-1 Inshas. The flight path is 4 meter. The collimator-rotor-collimator system has the dimensions 0.3 x 2.5 x 70 cm with the rotor diameter 16 cm and 3 slits of 0.3 x 2.5 cm cross section. The rotor rotation rate varies between 600 r.p.m. the counting system has one of the best modern high electronic advanced technology time analyzer with minimum dwell time 2 sec, 8192 channels and a double detector inputs of TTL and NEG NIM standard pulses. The analyzer external triggering signals are of TTL standard type. A special design {sup 3} He detector for time of flight spectrometry has been used in the SNS. The reactor bare thermal neutron spectrum has been successfully measured, to show good agreement with the previous data. 6 figs.

Reliability database of IEA-R1 Brazilian research reactor: Applications to the improvement of installation safety

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Oliveira, P.S.P.; Tondin, J.B.M.; Martins, M.O.; Yovanovich, M.; Ricci Filho, W.

2010-01-01

In this paper the main features of the reliability database being developed at Ipen-Cnen/SP for IEA-R1 reactor are briefly described. Besides that, the process for collection and updating of data regarding operation, failure and maintenance of IEA-R1 reactor components is presented. These activities have been conducted by the reactor personnel under the supervision of specialists in Probabilistic Safety Analysis (PSA). The compilation of data and subsequent calculation are based on the procedures defined during an IAEA Coordinated Research Project which Brazil took part in the period from 2001 to 2004. In addition to component reliability data, the database stores data on accident initiating events and human errors. Furthermore, this work discusses the experience acquired through the development of the reliability database covering aspects like improvements in the reactor records as well as the application of the results to the optimization of operation and maintenance procedures and to the PSA carried out for IEA-R1 reactor. (author)

Thermal hydraulic analysis of the IPR-R1 TRIGA research reactor using a RELAP5 model

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Costa, Antonella L.; Reis, Patricia Amelia L.; Pereira, Claubia; Veloso, Maria Auxiliadora F.; Mesquita, Amir Z.; Soares, Humberto V.

2010-01-01

The RELAP5 code is widely used for thermal hydraulic studies of commercial nuclear power plants. Current investigations and code adaptations have demonstrated that the RELAP5 code can be also applied for thermal hydraulic analysis of nuclear research reactors with good predictions. Therefore, as a contribution to the assessment of RELAP5/MOD3.3 for research reactors analysis, this work presents steady-state and transient calculation results performed using a RELAP5 model to simulate the IPR-R1 TRIGA research reactor at 50 kilowatts (kW) of power operation. The reactor is located in the Nuclear Technology Development Center (CDTN), Brazil. It is a 250 kW, light water moderated and cooled, graphite-reflected, open pool type research reactor. The development and the assessment of a RELAP5 model for the IPR-R1 TRIGA are presented. Experimental data were considered in the process of the RELAP5 model validation. The RELAP5 results were also compared with calculated data from the STHIRP-1 (Research Reactors Thermal Hydraulic Simulation) code. The results obtained have shown that the RELAP5 model for the IPR-R1 TRIGA reproduces the actual steady-state reactor behavior in good agreement with the available data.

Simulation of channel blockage for the IEA-R1 research reactor using RELAP/MOD 3

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Oliveira, Eduardo C.F. de; Castrillo, Lazara Silveira

2015-01-01

Research reactors have great importance in the area of nuclear technology, such as radioisotope production, research in nuclear physics, development of new technologies and staff training for reactor operation. The IEA-R1 is a Brazilian research reactor type pool, located at the IPEN (Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares). In this work is simulated with computer code RELAP5 / MOD 3.3.2 gamma, the effect caused by partial and complete blockage of a channel in MTR fuel element of the IEA-R1 core, in order to analyzed the thermal hydraulic parameters on adjacent channels. (author)

Simulation of channel blockage for the IEA-R1 research reactor using RELAP/MOD 3

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Oliveira, Eduardo C.F. de; Castrillo, Lazara Silveira, E-mail: ecfoliveira@hotmail.com, E-mail: lazara.castrillo@upe.br [Universidade de Pernambuco (UPE), Recife, PE (Brazil). Escola Politecnica de Pernambuco

2015-07-01

Research reactors have great importance in the area of nuclear technology, such as radioisotope production, research in nuclear physics, development of new technologies and staff training for reactor operation. The IEA-R1 is a Brazilian research reactor type pool, located at the IPEN (Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares). In this work is simulated with computer code RELAP5 / MOD 3.3.2 gamma, the effect caused by partial and complete blockage of a channel in MTR fuel element of the IEA-R1 core, in order to analyzed the thermal hydraulic parameters on adjacent channels. (author)

Restart of R reactor at SRP

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

McDonell, W.R.

1983-01-01

Restart of the Savannah River R-Reactor is an alternative to L-Reactor operation for increased production of defense nuclear material. R-Reactor was shut down in 1964 after 11-years operation and has been on standby for 19 years. This report presents a description of R-Reactor operation to serve as a basis for analysis of environmental impacts after restoration to meet current SRP performance standards. R-Reactor operation would differ from L-Reactor operation principally in discharge and recycle of effluent cooling water to Par Pond, rather than direct discharge to the Savannah River by way of Steel Creek. Significant differences in environmental effects could result. A costly renovation program would be required to restore R-Reactor to operability, and the reactor could not contribute to material production before about 1989

Neutron flux measurement and thermal power calibration of the IAN-R1 TRIGA reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sarta Fuentes, Jose A.; Castiblanco Bohorquez, Luis A

2008-10-29

The IAN-R1 TRIGA reactor in Colombia was initially fueled with MTR-HEU enriched to 93% U-235, operated since 1965 at 10 kW, and was upgraded to 30 kW in 1980. General Atomics achieved in 1997 the conversion of HEU fuel to LEU fuel TRIGA type, and upgraded the reactor power to 100 kW. Since the IAN-R1 TRIGA reactor was in an extended shutdown during seven years, it was necessary to repeat some results of the commissioning test conducted in 1997. The thermal power calibration was carried out using the calorimetric method. The reactor was operated approximately at 20 kW during 3.5 hours, with manual power corrections since the automatic control system failed and with the forced refrigeration off. During the calorimetric experiment, the pool temperature was measured with a RTD which is installed near to the core. The dates were collected in intervals of 30 minutes. For establishing thermal power reactor, the water temperature versus the running were registered. For a calculated tank volume of 16 m{sup 3}, the tank constant calculated for the IAN-R1 TRIGA reactor is 0.0539 C/kW-hr. The reactor power determined was 19 kW. The core configuration is a rectangular grid plate that holds a combination of 4-rod and 3-rod clusters. The core contains 50 fuel rods with LEU fuel TRIGA (UZr H1.6) type enriched to 19.7%. The radial reflector consists of twenty graphite elements six of which are used for isotope production. The top an bottom reflectors are the cylindrical graphite end reflectors which are installed above and below of the active fuel section in each fuel rod. The spatial dependence of thermal neutron flux was measured axially in the 3-rod clusters 4C, 3D, 5E and in the 4F graphite element. The spatial distribution of the thermal neutron was determined using a self-powered detector and the absolute value of thermal neutron flux was determined by a gold activation detector. The (n, b- ) reaction is applied to determine the relative spatial distribution of thermal

Borated stainless steel storage project to the spent fuel of the IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rodrigues, Antonio Carlos Iglesias; Madi Filho, Tufic; Ricci Filho, Walter

2013-01-01

The IEA-R1 research reactor operates in a regimen of 64h weekly, at the power of 4.5 MW. In these conditions, the racks to the spent fuel elements have less than half of its initial capacity. Thus, maintaining these operating circumstances, the storage will have capacity for approximately six years. Whereas the estimated useful life of the IEA-R1 is around twenty years, it will be necessary to increase the storage capacity for the spent fuel. Dr. Henrik Grahn, expert of the International Atomic Energy Agency on wet storage, visiting the IEA-R1 Reactor (September/2012) made some recommendations: among them, the design and installation of racks made with borated stainless steel and internally coated with an aluminum film, so that corrosion of the fuel elements would not occur. This work objective is the project of high capacity storage for spent fuel elements, using borated stainless steel, to answer the Reactor IEA-R1 demand and the security requirements of the International Atomic Energy Agency. (author)

Borated stainless steel storage project to the spent fuel of the IEA-R1 reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rodrigues, Antonio Carlos Iglesias; Madi Filho, Tufic; Ricci Filho, Walter, E-mail: acirodri@ipen.br, E-mail: tmfilho@ipen.br, E-mail: wricci@ipen.br [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2013-07-01

The IEA-R1 research reactor operates in a regimen of 64h weekly, at the power of 4.5 MW. In these conditions, the racks to the spent fuel elements have less than half of its initial capacity. Thus, maintaining these operating circumstances, the storage will have capacity for approximately six years. Whereas the estimated useful life of the IEA-R1 is around twenty years, it will be necessary to increase the storage capacity for the spent fuel. Dr. Henrik Grahn, expert of the International Atomic Energy Agency on wet storage, visiting the IEA-R1 Reactor (September/2012) made some recommendations: among them, the design and installation of racks made with borated stainless steel and internally coated with an aluminum film, so that corrosion of the fuel elements would not occur. This work objective is the project of high capacity storage for spent fuel elements, using borated stainless steel, to answer the Reactor IEA-R1 demand and the security requirements of the International Atomic Energy Agency. (author)

Radioactive inventory in structural materials of ET-R R-1 reactor and its implication on decommissioning.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Elkady, A; Amin, E [National center for nuclear safety and radiation control, atomic energy authority, Cairo, (Egypt)

1995-10-01

A plan for decommissioning of ET-R R-1 reactor should include estimation of radioactivity in structural materials. The inventory will help in assessing the radiological consequences decommissioning. Conservative calculations have been made to evaluate the activity of the long lived isotopes which can be produced by neutron activation. The materials which are present in significant quantities in the reactor structural materials are aluminium, cast iron, graphite, ordinary and iron shot concrete. The radioactivity of each component is dependent not only upon the major elements, but also on the concentration of the trace elements. The main radioactive inventory are expected to be from Co-60 and Fe-55 which are present in aluminium as trace elements in larger quantities in other construction materials. 2 figs., 4 tabs.

IEA-R1 reactor core simulation with RELAP5 code

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rocha, Ricardo Takeshi Vieira da; Belchior Junior, Antonio; Andrade, Delvonei Alves de; Sabundjian, Gaiane; Umbehaum, Pedro Ernesto; Torres, Walmir Maximo

2005-01-01

This paper presents a preliminary RELAP5 model for the IEA-R1 core. The power distribution is supplied by the neutronic code, CITATION. The main objective is to model the IEA-R1 core and validate the model through the comparison of the results to the ones from COBRA and PARET, which were used in the Final Safety Analysis Report (FSAR) for this plant. Preliminary calculations regarding some simulations are presented. Boundary conditions are simulated through time dependent components. Results obtained are compared to those available for the IEA-R1. This study will be continued considering a model for the whole plant. Important transient and accidents will be analysed in order to verify the Emergency Core Cooling System - ECCS efficiency to hold its function as projected to preserve the integrity of the reactor core and guarantee its cooling. (author)

Digital Systems Implemented at the IPEN Nuclear Research Reactor (IEA-R1): Results and Necessities

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nahuel-Cardenas, Jose-Patricio; Madi-Filho, Tufic; Ricci-Filho, Walter; Rodrigues-de-Carvalho, Marcos; Lima-Benevenuti, Erion-de; Gomes-Neto, Jose

2013-06-01

(Nuclear and Energy Research Institute) was founded in 1956 with the main purpose of doing research and development in the field of nuclear energy and its applications. It is located at the campus of University of Sao Paulo (USP), in the city of Sao Paulo, in an area of nearly 500, 000 m2. It has over 1.000 employees and 40% of them have qualification at master or doctor level The institute is recognized as a national leader institution in research and development (R and D) in the areas of radiopharmaceuticals, industrial applications of radiation, basic nuclear research, nuclear reactor operation and nuclear applications, materials science and technology, laser technology and applications. Along with the R and D, it has a strong educational activity, having a graduate program in Nuclear Technology, in association with the University of Sao Paulo, ranked as the best university in the country. The Federal Government Evaluation institution CAPES, granted to this course grade 6, considering it a program of Excellence. This program started at 1976 and has awarded 458 Ph.D. degrees and 937 master degrees since them. The actual graduate enrollment is around 400 students. One of major nuclear installation at IPEN is the IEA-R1 research reactor; it is the only Brazilian research reactor with substantial power level suitable for its utilization in researches concerning physics, chemistry, biology and engineering as well as for producing some useful radioisotopes for medical and other applications. IEA-R1 reactor is a swimming pool type reactor moderated and cooled by light water and uses graphite and beryllium as reflectors. The first criticality was achieved on September 16, 1957. The reactor is currently operating at 4.5 MW power level with an operational schedule of continuous 64 hours a week. In 1996 a Modernization Program was started to establish recommendations in order to mitigate equipment and structures ageing effects in the reactor components, detect and evaluate

Development of a training simulator to operators of the IEA-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Carvalho, Ricardo Pinto de

2006-01-01

This work reports the development of a Simulator for the IEA-R1 Research Reactor. The Simulator was developed with Visual C++ in two stages: construction of the mathematics models and development and configuration of graphics interfaces in a Windows XP executable. A simplified modeling was used for main physics phenomena, using a point kinetics model for the nuclear process and the energy and mass conservation laws in the average channel of the reactor for the thermal hydraulic process. The dynamics differential equations were solved by using finite differences through the 4th order Runge- Kutta method. The reactivity control, reactor cooling, and reactor protection systems were also modeled. The process variables are stored in ASCII files. The Simulator allows navigating by screens of the systems and monitoring tendencies of the operational transients, being an interactive tool for teaching and training of IEA-R1 operators. It also can be used by students, professors, and researchers in teaching activities in reactor and thermal hydraulics theory. The Simulator allows simulations of operations of start up, power maneuver, and shut down. (author)

Experimental study of the temperature distribution in the TRIGA IPR-R1 Brazilian research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mesquita, Amir Zacarias

2005-01-01

The TRIGA-IPR-R1 Research Nuclear Reactor has completed 44 years in operation in November 2004. Its initial nominal thermal power was 30 kW. In 1979 its power was increased to 100 kW by adding new fuel elements to the reactor. Recently some more fuel elements were added to the core increasing the power to 250 kW. The TRIGA-IPR-R1 is a pool type reactor with a natural circulation core cooling system. Although the large number of experiments had been carried out with this reactor, mainly on neutron activation analysis, there is not many data on its thermal-hydraulics processes, whether experimental or theoretical. So a number of experiments were carried out with the measurement of the temperature inside the fuel element, in the reactor core and along the reactor pool. During these experiments the reactor was set in many different power levels. These experiments are part of the CDTN/CNEN research program, and have the main objective of commissioning the TRIGA-IPR-R1 reactor for routine operation at 250 kW. This work presents the experimental and theoretical analyses to determine the temperature distribution in the reactor. A methodology for the calibration and monitoring the reactor thermal power was also developed. This methodology allowed adding others power measuring channels to the reactor by using thermal processes. The fuel thermal conductivity and the heat transfer coefficient from the cladding to the coolant were also experimentally valued. lt was also presented a correlation for the gap conductance between the fuel and the cladding. The experimental results were compared with theoretical calculations and with data obtained from technical literature. A data acquisition and processing system and a software were developed to help the investigation. This system allows on line monitoring and registration of the main reactor operational parameters. The experiments have given better comprehension of the reactor thermal-fluid dynamics and helped to develop numerical

Use of self powered neutron detectors in the IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Galo Rocha, F. del.

1989-01-01

A survey of self-powered neutron detectors, SPND, which are used as part of the in-core instrumentation of nuclear reactors is presented. Measurements with Co and Er SPND's were made in the IEA-R1 reactor for determining the neutron flux distribution and the integral reactor power. Due to the size of the available detectors, the neutron flux distribution could not be obtained with accuracy. The results obtained in the reactor power measurements demonstrate that the SPND have the linearity and the quick response necessary for a reactor power channel. This work also presents a proposed design of a SPND using Pt as wire emissor. This proposed design is based in the experience gained in building two prototypes. The greatest difficulties encountered include materials and technology to perform the delicate weldings. (author)

Experiment on continuous operation of the Brazilian IEA-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Freitas Pintaud, M. de

1994-01-01

In order to increase the radioisotope production in the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN/CNEN-SP, it has been proposed a change in its operation regime from 8 hours per day and 5 days per week to continuous 48 hours per week. The necessary reactor parameters for this new operation regime were obtained through an experiment in which the reactor was for the first time operated in the new regime. This work presents the principal results from this experiment: xenon reactivity, new shutdown margins, and reactivity loss due to fuel burnup in the new operation regime. (author)

Auxiliary control system of the safety parameters for IPR-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Coura, J.G.

1986-01-01

This paper deals with the description for the control of three cooling water parameters (conductivity, temperature and the maximum and minimum water levels) as well as the percent power fraction of the nuclear research reactor IPR-R1. In order to keep the reactor in good operation conditions, one permanent and accurate control of the cooling water is needed. The double monitoring of a fourth parameter, part of the original design, the percent power fraction, is obtained through the control of the uncompensated ion chamber current and aims to avoid the operation of the reactor without running the cooling system. (Author) [pt

Core calculations for the upgrading of the IEA-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Santos, Adimir dos; Perrotta, Jose A.; Bastos, Jose Luis F.; Yamaguchi, Mitsuo; Umbehaun, Pedro E.

1998-01-01

The IEA-R1 Research Reactor is a multipurpose reactor. It has been used for basic and applied research in the nuclear area, training and radioisotopes production since 1957. In 1995, the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP) took the decision to modernize and upgrade the power from 2 to 5 MW and increase the operational cycle. This work presents the design requirements and the calculations effectuated to reach this goal. (author)

New burnup calculation of TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Meireles, Sincler P. de; Campolina, Daniel de A.M.; Santos, Andre A. Campagnole dos; Menezes, Maria A.B.C.; Mesquita, Amir Z.

2015-01-01

The IPR-R1 TRIGA Mark I research reactor, located at the Nuclear Technology Development Center - CDTN, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, operates since 1960.The reactor is operating for more than fifty years and has a long history of operation. Determining the current composition of the fuel is very important to calculate various parameters. The reactor burnup calculation has been performed before, however, new techniques, methods, software and increase of the processing capacity of the new computers motivates new investigations to be performed. This work presents the evolution of effective multiplication constant and the results of burnup. This new model has a more detailed geometry with the introduction of the new devices, like the control rods and the samarium discs. This increase of materials in the simulation in burnup calculation was very important for results. For these series of simulations a more recently cross section library, ENDF/B-VII, was used. To perform the calculations two Monte Carlo particle transport code were used: Serpent and MCNPX. The results obtained from two codes are presented and compared with previous studies in the literature. (author)

Verification of the linearity of the IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor power channels

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Souza, Rose Mary Gomes do Prado; Campolina, Daniel de Almeida Magalhaes

2013-01-01

The aim of this paper is to verify the linearity of the three power channels of the IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor. Located at Nuclear Technology Development Center-CDTN in Belo Horizonte, the IPR-R1 reactor is a typical 100 kW Mark I light-water reactor cooled by natural convection. When the experiments were performed, the reactor core had 59 fuel elements, containing 8% by weight of uranium enriched to 20% in 235 U. The core has cylindrical configuration with an annular graphite reflector. The responses of the detectors of the Linear, Log N and Percent Power channels were compared with the responses of detectors which only depend on the overall neutron flux within the reactor. Gold and cobalt foils were activated at low and high powers, respectively, and the specific count results were compared with measurements performed, simultaneously, with a fission chamber, and with the power registered by the three channels. The results show that the Linear channel responds linearly up to 100 kW, and the Log N channel responses are linear at low powers. In the range of high power, the Log N and the Percent Power channels exhibit linearity only from 10 kW to 50 kW. (author)

Measurements and calculations of reactivity for the IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ferreira, P.S.B.; Maiorino, J.R.; Yamaguchi, M.

1988-01-01

This work shows a measurement of reactivity parameters, such as integral and diferential control rod worth, local void coefficient, and moderator temperature coefficient for the research reactor IEA-R1. The measured values were compared with those calculated through HAMMER-CITATION codes, having shown good agreement. (author) [pt

Assessment of a RELAP5 model for the IPR-R1 TRIGA research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reis, Patricia A.L.; Costa, Antonella L.; Pereira, Claubia; Veloso, Maria A.F.; Mesquita, Amir Z.; Soares, Humberto V.

2010-01-01

RELAP5 code was developed at the Idaho National Environmental and Engineering Laboratory and it is widely used for thermal hydraulic studies of commercial nuclear power plants and, currently, it has been also applied for thermal hydraulic analysis of nuclear research systems with good predictions. This work is a contribution to the assessment of RELAP5/3.3 code for research reactors analysis. It presents steady-state and transient calculation results performed using a RELAP5 model to simulate the IPR-R1 TRIGA research reactor conditions operating at 50 and 100 kW. The reactor is located at the Nuclear Technology Development Centre (CDTN), Brazil. The development and the assessment of a RELAP5 model for the IPR-R1 TRIGA are presented. Experimental data were considered in the process of code-to-data validation. The RELAP5 results were also compared with calculation performed using the STHIRP-1 (Research Reactors Thermal Hydraulic Simulation) code. The use of a cross flow model has been essential to improve results in the transient condition respect to preceding investigations.

Measurement of thermal neutron flux spatial distribution in the IEA-R1 reactor core

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

D'Utra Bitelli, U.

1993-01-01

This work presents the spatial thermal neutron flux in IEA-R1 reactor obtained by activation foils methods. These measurements were made in 27 fuel elements of the reactor core (165 B configuration). The results are important to compare with theoretical values, power calibration and safety analysis. (author)

Feasibility study of application of Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) method in TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Guerra, Bruno Teixeira

2016-01-01

The TRIGA Mark I IPR-R1 research reactor is located at Nuclear Technology Development Centre (CDTN), Brazilian Commission for Nuclear Energy (CNEN), in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The reactor operates at 100 kW but the core configuration allows the increasing of the power up to 250 kW. It has been applied research, training and radioisotopes production. The establishment of the Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) method at the TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor will significantly increase the types of matrices analysed as well as the number of chemical elements. Additionally it will complement the neutron activation analysis. This work presents a proposed design of a PGNAA facility to be installed at the TRIGA IPR-R1. The proposed design is based on a tube as a neutron guide from the reactor core, inside the reactor pool, 6 m below the room’s level where shall be located the rack containing the set sample/detector/shielding. Thus, the aim of this study is to verify the feasibility to establish the PGNAA method in IPR-R1 through theoretical study applying the Monte Carlo code. The feasibility of establishing the PGAA method at the IPR-R1 installations was evaluated through of the calculations of neutron flux, radioactive capture reaction rates and detection limits for some isotopes. According to the obtained results, it can be concluded that is possible to establish the PGAA method at the IPR-R1 reactor, even with some restrictions in its theoretical design calculated by MCNP. (author)

Reactivity-worth estimates of the OSMOSE samples in the MINERVE reactor R1-MOX, R2-UO2 and MORGANE/R configurations.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zhong, Z.; Klann, R. T.; Nuclear Engineering Division

2007-08-03

An initial series of calculations of the reactivity-worth of the OSMOSE samples in the MINERVE reactor with the R2-UO2 and MORGANE/R core configuration were completed. The calculation model was generated using the lattice physics code DRAGON. In addition, an initial comparison of calculated values to experimental measurements was performed based on preliminary results for the R1-MOX configuration.

Measurements and calculation of reactivity in the IEA-R1 nuclear reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ferreira, P.S.B.

1988-01-01

Techniques and experimentals procedures utilized in the measurement of some nuclear parameters related to reactivity are presented. Measurements of reactivity coefficients, such as void, temperature and power, and control rod worth were made in the IEA-R1 Research Reactor. The techniques used to perform the measurements were: i) stable period (control rod calibration), ii) inverse kinetics (digital reactivity meter), iii) aluminium slab insertion in the fuel element coolant channels (void reactivity), iv) nuclear reactor core temperature changes by means of the changes in the coolant systems of reactor core (isothermal reactivity coefficient) and v) by making perturbation in the core through the control rod motions (power reactivity coefficient and control rod calibration). By using the computer codes HAMMER, HAMMER-TECHNION and CITATION, the experiments realized in the IEA-R1 reactor were simulated. From this simulation, the theoretical reactivity parameters were estimated and compared with the respective experimental results. Furthermore, in the second fuel load of Angra-1 Nuclear Power Station, the IPEN-CNEN/SP digital reactivity - meter were used in the lower power test with the aim to assess the equipment performance. Among several tests, the reacticity-meter were used in parallel with a Westinghouse analogic reativimeter-meter) to measure the heat additiona point, critical boron concentration, control rod calibration, isothermal and moderator reactivity coefficient. These tests, and the results obtained by the digital reactivity-meter are described. The results were compared with those obtained by Westinghouse analogic reactivity meter, showing excellent agreement. (author) [pt

Neutron radiography in the IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pugliesi, R.; Moraes, A.P.V. de; Yamazaki, I.M.; Freitas Acosta, C. de.

1988-08-01

Neutronradiography of several materials have been obtained at the IEA-R1 Nuclear Research Reactor (IPEN-CNEN/SP), by means of two conversion techniques: a) (n, α) at the beam-hole n 0 3 where a collimated thermal neutron beam, exposure area 4 cm x 8cm and flux at the sample 10 5 n/s cm 2 is obtained. The film used was the CN-85 cellulose nitrate coated with lithium tetraborate (conversor). The time irradiation of the film was 15 minutes and in following was eteched during 30 minutes in a NaOH(10%) aqueous solution at a constant temperature of 60 0 C.; b) (n,γ) by using an experimental arrangement installed in the botton of the pool of the reactor. The flux of the collimated neutron beam is 10 5 n/s/cm 2 at the sample and the conversion is made by means of a dysprozium sheet. The film used was Kodak T-5. The irradiation and the transfering time was 2 hours and 20 hours respectively. (author) [pt

Aspects of the Iea-R1 research reactor seismic evaluation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mattar Neto, Miguel

1996-01-01

Codes and standards for the seismic evaluation of the research reactor IEA-R1 are presented. An approach to define the design basis earthquake based on the local seismic map and on simplified analysis methods is proposed. The site seismic evaluation indicates that the design earthquake intensity is IV MM. Therefore, according to the used codes and standards, no buildings, systems, and components seismic analysis are required. (author)

Modernization of the CDTN IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor instrumentation and control

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mesquita, A.Z.; Costa, A.C.L.; Souza, R.M.G.P.

2009-01-01

The control system of the IPR-R1 was changed in 1995. Although since the year's 80 was generalized the use of microprocessor technology and video monitors for visual interface, in the IPR-R1 control room it was used analogical system by relay-based logic, and were maintained the mechanical strip chart recorders (ink-pen drive) to measure, monitor and store the operational parameters. It was maintained the measure and the control of, practically, the same variables of the original system, although the reactor power already have been upgraded to 100 kW and began the studies to increase it to 250 kW, which is the current core configuration. For 250 kW operations the fuel heat transfer becomes important and new parameters should be used as safety operational limits. A state-of-the-art instrumentation and control system using microprocessor technology is proposed to replace the present analogical systems. The new system can eliminates most manual data logging, provides automatic or manual reactor operation modes, provides complete real-time operator display, replays historical operating data on monitor or printer, eliminates spare parts replacement problems and meets all applicable international standards as NRC and IEE specifications. This paper describes the research project in process in CDTN that has as objective the modernization of the IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor instrumentation and control of the operational variables. The project also will improve the accomplishment of neutronic and thermal-hydraulic experiments, foreseen in the CDTN research program. (author)

Insertion of reactivity (RIA) without scram in the reactor core IEA-R1 using code PARET

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alves, Urias F.; Castrillo, Lazara S.; Lima, Fernando A.

2013-01-01

The modeling and analysis thermo hydraulics of a research reactor with MTR type fuel elements - Material Testing Reactor - was performed using the code PARET (Program for the Analysis of Reactor Transients) when in the system some external event is introduced that changed the reactivity in the reactor core. Transients of Reactivity Insertion of 0.5 , 1.5 and 2.0$/ 0.7s in the brazilian reactor IEA-R1 will be presented, and will be shown under what conditions it is possible to ensure the safe operation of its nucleus. (author)

Design of a new wet storage rack for spent fuels from IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rodrigues, Antonio C.I.; Madi Filho, Tufic; Siqueira, Paulo T.D.; Ricci Filho, Walter

2015-01-01

The IEA-R1 research reactor operates in a regimen of 64h weekly, at the power of 4.5 MW. In these conditions, the racks of the spent fuel elements have less than half of its initial capacity. Thus, maintaining these operating conditions, the storage will have capacity for about six years. Since the estimated useful life of the IEA-R1 is about another 20 years, it will be necessary to increase the storage capacity of spent fuel. Dr. Henrik Grahn, expert of the International Atomic Energy Agency on wet storage, visiting the IEA-R1 Reactor (September/2012) made some recommendations: among them, the design and installation of racks made with borated stainless steel and internally coated with an aluminum film, so that corrosion of the fuel elements would not occur. After an extensive literature review of material options given for this type of application we got to Boral® manufactured by 3M due to numerous advantages. This paper presents studies on the analysis of criticality using the computer code MCNP 5, demonstrating the possibility of doubling the storage capacity of current racks to attend the demand of the IEA-R1 reactor while attending the safety requirements the International Atomic Energy Agency. (author)

Design of a new wet storage rack for spent fuels from IEA-R1 reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rodrigues, Antonio C.I.; Madi Filho, Tufic; Siqueira, Paulo T.D.; Ricci Filho, Walter, E-mail: acirodri@ipen.br, E-mail: tmfilho@ipen.br, E-mail: ptsiquei@ipen.br, E-mail: wricci@ipen.br [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2015-07-01

The IEA-R1 research reactor operates in a regimen of 64h weekly, at the power of 4.5 MW. In these conditions, the racks of the spent fuel elements have less than half of its initial capacity. Thus, maintaining these operating conditions, the storage will have capacity for about six years. Since the estimated useful life of the IEA-R1 is about another 20 years, it will be necessary to increase the storage capacity of spent fuel. Dr. Henrik Grahn, expert of the International Atomic Energy Agency on wet storage, visiting the IEA-R1 Reactor (September/2012) made some recommendations: among them, the design and installation of racks made with borated stainless steel and internally coated with an aluminum film, so that corrosion of the fuel elements would not occur. After an extensive literature review of material options given for this type of application we got to Boral® manufactured by 3M due to numerous advantages. This paper presents studies on the analysis of criticality using the computer code MCNP 5, demonstrating the possibility of doubling the storage capacity of current racks to attend the demand of the IEA-R1 reactor while attending the safety requirements the International Atomic Energy Agency. (author)

Spent fuel management - two alternatives at the FiR 1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Salmenhaara, S.E.J.

2001-01-01

The FiR 1 -reactor, a 250 kW Triga reactor, has been in operation since 1962. The reactor with its subsystems has experienced a large renovation work in 1996-97. The main purpose of the upgrading was to install the new Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) irradiation facility. The BNCT work dominates the current utilization of the reactor: four days per week for BNCT purposes and only one day per week for neutron activation analysis and isotope production. The Council of State (government) granted for the reactor a new operating license for twelve years starting from the beginning of the year 2000. There is however a special condition in the new license. We have to achieve a binding agreement between our Research Centre and the domestic Nuclear Power Plant Companies about the possibility to use the final disposal facility of the Nuclear Power Plants for our spent fuel, if we want to continue the reactor operation beyond the year 2006. In addition to the choosing of one of the spent fuel management alternatives the future of the reactor will also depend strongly on the development of the BNCT irradiations. If the number of patients per year increases fast enough and the irradiations of the patients will be economically justified, the operation of the reactor will continue independently of the closing of the USDOE alternative in 2006. Otherwise, if the number of patients will be low, the funding of the reactor will be probably stopped and the reactor will be shut down. (author)

Calculation of radiation heat generation on a graphite reflector side of IAN-R1 Reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Duque O, J.; Velez A, L.H.

1987-01-01

Calculation methods for radiation heat generation in nuclear reactor, based on the point kernel approach are revisited and applied to the graphite reflector of IAN-R1 reactor. A Fortran computer program was written for the determination of total heat generation in the reflector, taking 1155 point in it

Spent fuel management plans for the FiR 1 Reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Salmenhaara, S. E. J.

2002-01-01

The FiR 1-reactor, a 250 kW TRIGA reactor, has been in operation since 1962. The main purpose to run the reactor is now the Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT). The BNCT work dominates the current utilization of the reactor: three days per week for BNCT purposes and only two days per week for other purposes such as the neutron activation analysis and isotope production. The final disposal site is situated in Olkiluoto, on the western coast of Finland. Olkiluoto is also one of the two nuclear power plant sites in Finland. In the new operating license of our reactor there is a special condition. We have to achieve a binding agreement between our Research Centre and either the domestic Nuclear Power Companies about the possibility to use the Olkiluoto final disposal facility for our spent fuel or US DOE about the return of our spent fuel back to USA. If we want to continue the reactor operation beyond the year 2006. the domestic final disposal is the only possibility. At the moment it seems to be reasonable to prepare to both possibilities: the domestic final disposal and the return to the USA offered by US DOE. Because the cost estimates of the both possibilities are on the same order of magnitude, the future of the reactor itself will decide, which of the spent fuel policies will be obeyed. In a couple of years' time it will be seen, if the funding of the reactor and the incomes from the BNCT treatments will cover the costs. If the BNCT and other irradiations develop satisfactorily, the reactor can be kept in operation beyond the year 2006 and the domestic final disposal will be implemented. If, however, there is still lack of money, there is no reason to continue the operation of the reactor and the choice of US DOE alternative is natural. (author)

Modernization of Safety and Control Instrumentation of the IEA-R1 Research Reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

De Carvalho, P.V., E-mail: paulov@ien.gov.br [Institute of Nuclear Engineering (IEN), National Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

2014-08-15

The research reactor IEA-R1 located in the Institute of Energy and Nuclear Research (IPEN), São Paulo, Brazil, obtained its first criticality on 16 September 1957 and since then has served the scientific and medical community in the performance of experiments in applied nuclear physics, as well as the provision of radioisotopes for production of radiopharmaceuticals. The reactor produces radioisotopes {sup 82}Br and {sup 41}Ar for special processes in industrial inspection and {sup 192}Ir and {sup 198}Au as sources of radiation used in brachytherapy, {sup 153}Sm for pain relief in patients with bone metastasis, and calibrated sources of {sup 133}Ba, {sup 137}Cs, {sup 57}Co, {sup 60}Co, {sup 241}Am and {sup 152}Eu used in medical clinics and hospitals practicing nuclear medicine and research laboratories. Services are offered in regular non-destructive testing by neutron radiography, neutron irradiation of silicon for phosphorous doping and other various irradiations with neutrons. The reactor is responsible for producing approximately 70% of radiopharmaceutical {sup 131}I used in Brazil, which saves about US$ 800 000 annually for the country. After more than 50 years of use, most of its equipment and systems have been modernized, and recently the reactor power was increased to 5 MW in order to enhance radioisotope production capability. However, the control room and nuclear instrumentation system used for reactor safety have operated more than 30 years and require constant maintenance. Many equipment and electronic components are obsolete, and replacements are not available in the market. The modernization of the nuclear safety and control instrumentation systems of IEA-R1 is being carried out with consideration for the internationally recognized criteria for safety and reliable reactor operations and the latest developments in nuclear electronic technology. The project for the new reactor instrumentation system specifies three wide range neutron monitoring

Supervisory system to monitor the neutron flux of the IPR-R1 TRIGA research reactor at CDTN

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pinto, Antonio Juscelino; Mesquita, Amir Zacarias; Tello, Cledola Cassia Oliveira

2009-01-01

The IPR-R1 TRIGA Mark I nuclear research reactor at the Nuclear Technology Development Center - CDTN (Belo Horizonte) is a pool type reactor. It was designed for research, training and radioisotope production. The International Atomic Energy Agency- IAEA - recommends the use of friendly interfaces for monitoring and controlling the operational parameters of nuclear reactors. This paper reports the activities for implementing a supervisory system, using LabVIEW software, with the purpose to provide the IPR-R1 TRIGA research reactor with a modern, safe and reliable system to monitor the time evolution of the power of its core. The use of the LabVIEW will introduce modern techniques, based on electronic processor and visual interface in video monitor, substituting the mechanical strip chart recorders (ink-pen drive and paper) that monitor the current neutrons flux, which is proportional to the thermal power supplied by reactor core. The main objective of the system will be to follow the evolution of the neutronic flux originated in the Linear and Logarithmic channels. A great advantage of the supervisory software nowadays, in relation to computer programs currently used in the facility, is the existence of new resources such as the data transmission and graphical interfaces by net, grid lines display in the graphs, and resources for real time reactor core video recordings. The considered system could also in the future be optimized, not only for data acquisition, but also for the total control of IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor(author)

Commissioning of the new heat exchanger for the research nuclear reactor IEA-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Castro, Alfredo Jose Alvim de; Cassiano, Douglas Alves; Umbehaun, Pedro Ernesto; Carvalho, Marcos Rodrigues de; Frajndlich, Roberto [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)]. E-mails: ajcastro@ipen.br; docass@gmail.com.br; umbehaun@ipen.br; carvalho@ipen.br; frajndli@ipen.br

2008-07-01

The Research Reactor IEA-R1 placed at IPEN/CNEN-SP is of the swimming pool type, light water moderated and with graphite reflectors, and was build and designed by Babcock and Wilcox Co. Start up operation was in September the 16{sup th}, 1957, being the first criticality for South Hemisphere. Although designed to operate at 5 MW, the IEA-R1 was operated until 2001 with 2 MW and was suitable for use in basic and applied research as well as the production of medical radioisotopes, industry and natural sciences applications. Due to a recent demand increase on radioisotopes in Brazil for medical diagnoses and therapies applications, IPEN /CNEN updated the IEA-R1 power to 5 MW and to work at continuous operation regime. Studies on the Ageing Management for the Research Reactor IEA-R1 were conducted according to IAEA procedures. As result of these studies critical components within the Ageing Management Program were identified. Also were made recommendations on the implementation of test scheduling and standardization procedures to organize data and documents. One of the main results was the need of monitoring the two heat exchangers, the two primary circuit pumps and the data acquisition system. During monitoring procedures, issues were observed on the IEA-R1 operation at 5 MW mainly due to the ageing of the Babcox and Wilcox TCA heat exchanger, and excessive vibrations at high flow rates on CBC's TCB heat exchanger. So, from 2005 on, it was decided to work with 3,5 MW and provide a new IESA heat exchanger with 5 MW capacity, to substitute the TCA heat exchanger. This work presents results on the commissioning of the new heat exchanger and compares against the values calculated in the IESA project. The results show that the IEA-R1 Reactor can be operated more safety and continuously at 5 MW with the new IESA heat exchanger. (author)

Calculation of the main neutron parameters of the IEA-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ojima, Mario Katsuhiko

1977-01-01

The main neutron parameters of the research reactor IEA-R1 were calculated using computer programs to generate cross sections and criticality calculations. A calculation procedure based on the programs available in the Processing Center Data of IEA was established and centered in the HAMMER and CITATION system. A study was done in order to verify the validity and accuracy of the calculation method comparing the results with experimental data. Some operating parameters of the reactor, namely the distribution of neutron flux, the critical mass, the variation of the reactivity with the burning of fuel, and the dead time of the reactor were determined

Modifications in the operational conditions of the IEA-R1 reactor under continuous 48 hours operation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Moreira, Joao Manoel Losada; Frajndlich, Roberto

1995-01-01

This work shows the required changes in the IEA-R1 reactor for operation at 2 Mw, 48 hours continuously. The principal technical change regards the operating conditions of the reactor, namely, the required excess reactivity which now will amount to 4800 pcm in order to compensate the Xe poisoning at equilibrium at 2 Mw. (author). 6 refs, 1 fig, 1 tab

Current utilization and long term strategy of the Finnish TRIGA research reactor FiR 1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Auterinen, Iiro; Salmenhaara, Seppo

2008-01-01

FiR 1 (TRIGA Mark II, 250 kW) has an important international role in the development of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) for cancer. The safety and efficacy of BNCT is studied for several different cancers: - primary glioblastoma, a highly malignant brain tumour (since 1999); - recurrent glioblastoma or anaplastic astrocytoma (since 2001); - recurrent inoperable head and neck carcinoma (since 2003). It is one of the few facilities in the world providing this kind of treatments. The successes in the BNCT development have now created a demand for these treatments, although they are given on an experimental basis. Well over 100 patients treated now since May 1999: - at least 1 patient irradiation / week, often 2 (Tuesday and Thursday) - patients are referred to BNCT-treatments from several hospitals, also outside research protocols; - the hospitals pay for the treatment. The FiR 1 reactor has proven to be a reliable neutron source for the BNCT treatments; no patient irradiations have been cancelled because of a failure of the reactor. The BNCT facility has become a center of extensive academic research especially in medical physics. Nuclear education and training continue to play also a role at FiR 1 in the form of university courses and training of nuclear industry personnel. FiR 1 is one of the two sources in Scandinavia for short lived radioisotopes used in tracer studies in industry. The main isotope produced is Br-82 in the form of either KBr or ethylene bromide. Other typical isotopes are Na-24, Ar-41, La-140. The isotopes are used mainly in tracer studies in industry (Indmeas Inc., Finland). Typical activity of one irradiated Br-sample is 20 - 80 GBq; total activity produced in one year is over 3 TBq; the reactor operating time needed for the isotope production is one or two days per week. Accelerator based neutron sources are developed for BNCT. The prospect is that when BNCT will achieve a status of a fully accepted and efficient treatment modality for

Upgrading the electrical system of the IEA-R1 reactor to avoid triggering event of accidents

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mello, Jose Roberto de; Madi Filho, Tufic

2015-01-01

The IEA-R1 research reactor at the Institute of Energy and Nuclear Research (IPEN) is a research reactor open pool type, built and designed by the American firm 'Babcox and Wilcox', having as coolant and moderator demineralized light water and Beryllium and graphite, as reflectors. The power supply system is designed to meet the electricity demand required by the loads of the reactor (Security systems and systems not related to security) in different situations the plant can meet, such as during startup, normal operation at power, shutdown, maintenance, exchange of fuel elements and accident situations. Studies have been done on possible accident initiating events and deterministic techniques were applied to assess the consequences of such incidents. Thus, the methods used to identify and select the accident initiating events, the methods of analysis of accidents, including sequence of events, transient analysis and radiological consequences, have been described. Finally, acceptance criteria of radiological doses are described. Only a brief summary of the item concerning loss of electrical power will be presented. The loss of normal electrical power at the IEA-R1 reactor is very common. In the case of Electric External Power Loss, at the IEA-R1 reactor building, there may be different sequences of events, as described below. When the supply of external energy in the IEA-R1 facility fails, the Electrical Distribution Vital System, consisting of 4 (four) generators type 'UPS', starts operation, immediately and it will continue supplying power to the reactor control table, core cooling system and other security systems. To contribute to security, in the electric power failure, starts to operate the Emergency Cooling System (SRE). SRE has the function of removing residual heat from the core to prevent the melting of fuel elements in the event of loss of refrigerant to the core. Adding to the generators with batteries group system, new auxiliary

Applications of neutron activation analysis technique in the IPR-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sabino, C.V.S.; Mansur, N.

1986-01-01

A review is made of the neutron activation analysis technique used in the IPR-R1 reactor of the Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear - NUCLEBRAS. Some characteristics of the method are described, types of samples and elements analyzed are also mentioned. (Author) [pt

Thermal hydraulic and neutron kinetic coupled simulation of the IPR-R1 Triga reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Reis, Patricia A.L.; Costa, Antonella L.; Pereira, Claubia; Silva, Clarysson A.M. da; Veloso, Maria Auxiliadora F.; Soares, Humbero V., E-mail: patricialire@yahoo.com.br, E-mail: antonella@nuclear.ufmg.br, E-mail: claubia@nuclear.ufmg.br, E-mail: clarysson@nuclear.ufmg.br, E-mail: dora@nuclear.ufmg.br, E-mail: betovitor@ig.com.br [Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil). Departamento de Engenharia Nuclear; Instituto Nacional de Ciencias e Tecnologia de Reatores Nucleares Inovadores (INCT/CNPq Rede), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil)

2013-07-01

The nuclear industry and the scientific community have turned the attention for the development of coupled 3D neutron kinetics (NK) and thermal-hydraulic (TH) system codes to investigate specific nuclear reactor transients. Improving in theoretical investigations of complex phenomena in nuclear reactor technology have been increased thanks to numerical methods and computational resources incorporated in nuclear codes. This paper presents a model for the IPR-R1 TRIGA research reactor using the RELAP5-3D 3.0 code. The development and the assessment of the thermal-hydraulic RELAP5 code model for the IPR-R1 have been validated for steady state and transient situations and the results were published in preceding works. Results of RELAP5-3D steady state and a transient case presented in this paper show good agreement with experimental data, validating then this model for point kinetic calculations. To supply adequate cross sections to the NK code, the WIMSD5 is being used. First results of steady state calculation using the 3D neutron modeling are being presented in this paper. (author)

Current activities at the FiR 1 TRIGA reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Salmenhaara, Seppo

2002-01-01

The FiR 1 -reactor, a 250 kW Triga reactor, has been in operation since 1962. The main purpose to run the reactor is now the Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT). The epithermal neutrons needed for the irradiation of brain tumor patients are produced from the fast fission neutrons by a moderator block consisting of Al+AlF 3 (FLUENTAL), which showed to be the optimum material for this purpose. Twenty-one patients have been treated since May 1999, when the license for patient treatment was granted to the responsible BNCT treatment organization. The treatment organization has a close connection to the Helsinki University Central Hospital. The BNCT work dominates the current utilization of the reactor: three days per week for BNCT purposes and only two days per week for other purposes such as the neutron activation analysis and isotope production. In the near future the back end solutions of the spent fuel management will have a very important role in our activities. The Finnish Parliament ratified in May 2001 the Decision in Principle on the final disposal facility for spent fuel in Olkiluoto, on the western coast of Finland. There is a special condition in our operating license. We have now about two years' time to achieve a binding agreement between VTT and the Nuclear Power Plant Companies about the possibility to use the final disposal facility of the Nuclear Power Plants for our spent fuel. If this will not happen, we have to make the agreement with the USDOE with the well-known time limits. At the moment it seems to be reasonable to prepare for both spent fuel management possibilities: the domestic final disposal and the return to the USA offered by USDOE. Because the cost estimates of the both possibilities are on the same order of magnitude, the future of the reactor itself will determine, which of the spent fuel policies will be obeyed. In a couple of years' time it will be seen, if the funding of the reactor and the incomes from the BNC treatments will cover

Experimental study of the temperature distribution in the TRIGA IPR-R1 Brazilian research reactor; Investigacao experimental da distribuicao de temperaturas no reator nuclear de pesquisa TRIGA IPR-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mesquita, Amir Zacarias

2005-07-01

The TRIGA-IPR-R1 Research Nuclear Reactor has completed 44 years in operation in November 2004. Its initial nominal thermal power was 30 kW. In 1979 its power was increased to 100 kW by adding new fuel elements to the reactor. Recently some more fuel elements were added to the core increasing the power to 250 kW. The TRIGA-IPR-R1 is a pool type reactor with a natural circulation core cooling system. Although the large number of experiments had been carried out with this reactor, mainly on neutron activation analysis, there is not many data on its thermal-hydraulics processes, whether experimental or theoretical. So a number of experiments were carried out with the measurement of the temperature inside the fuel element, in the reactor core and along the reactor pool. During these experiments the reactor was set in many different power levels. These experiments are part of the CDTN/CNEN research program, and have the main objective of commissioning the TRIGA-IPR-R1 reactor for routine operation at 250 kW. This work presents the experimental and theoretical analyses to determine the temperature distribution in the reactor. A methodology for the calibration and monitoring the reactor thermal power was also developed. This methodology allowed adding others power measuring channels to the reactor by using thermal processes. The fuel thermal conductivity and the heat transfer coefficient from the cladding to the coolant were also experimentally valued. lt was also presented a correlation for the gap conductance between the fuel and the cladding. The experimental results were compared with theoretical calculations and with data obtained from technical literature. A data acquisition and processing system and a software were developed to help the investigation. This system allows on line monitoring and registration of the main reactor operational parameters. The experiments have given better comprehension of the reactor thermal-fluid dynamics and helped to develop numerical

Circuits design of action logics of the protection system of nuclear reactor IAN-R1 of Colombia; Diseno de los circuitos de la logica de actuacion del sistema de proteccion del reactor nuclear IAN-R1 de Colombia

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gonzalez M, J. L.; Rivero G, T.; Sainz M, E., E-mail: joseluis.gonzalez@inin.gob.mx [ININ, Carretera Mexico-Toluca s/n, 52750 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)

2014-10-15

Due to the obsolescence of the instrumentation and control system of the nuclear research reactor IAN-R1, the Institute of Geology and Mining of Colombia, IngeoMinas, launched an international convoking for renewal it which was won by the Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares (ININ). Within systems to design, the reactor protection system is described as important for safety, because this carried out, among others two primary functions: 1) ensuring the reactor shutdown safely, and 2) controlling the interlocks to protect against operational errors if defined conditions have not been met. To fulfill these functions, the various subsystems related to the safety report the state in which they are using binary signals and are connected to the inputs of two redundant logic wiring circuits called action logics (Al) that are part of the reactor protection system. These Al also serve as logical interface to indicate at all times the status of subsystems, both the operator and other systems. In the event that any of the subsystems indicates a state of insecurity in the reactor, the Al generate signals off (or scram) of the reactor, maintaining the interlock until the operator sends a reset signal. In this paper the design, implementation, verification and testing of circuits that make up the Al 1 and 2 of IAN-R1 reactor is described, considering the fulfillment of the requirements that the different international standards imposed on this type of design. (Author)

25th birthday of the first criticality of IPR-R1 nuclear research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tofani, P.C.; Stasiulevicius, R.; Roedel, G.

1988-01-01

The historical evolution of IPR-R1 research reactor of Instituto de Pesquisas Radioativas-Nuclebras, since the data of its first criticality, is presented. The modifications and the main activities carried out, are presented. (M.C.K.) [pt

Ageing implementation and refurbishment development at the IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor: a 15 years experience

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cardenas, Jose Patricio N.; Ricci Filho, Walter; Carvalho, Marcos R. de; Berretta, Jose Roberto; Marra Neto, Adolfo

2011-01-01

IPEN (Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares) is a nuclear research center established into the Secretary of Science and Technology from the government of the state of Sao Paulo, and administered both technically and financially by Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear (CNEN), a federal government organization under the Ministry of Science and Technology. The institute is located inside the campus of the University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo city, Brazil. One of major nuclear facilities at IPEN is the IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor. It is the unique Brazilian research reactor with substantial power level suitable for application with research in physics, chemistry, biology and engineering, as well as radioisotope production for medical and other applications. Designed and built by Babcok-Wilcox, in accordance with technical specifications established by the Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission, and financed by the US Atoms for Peace Program, it is a swimming pool type reactor, moderated and cooled by light water and uses graphite and beryllium as reflector elements. The first criticality was achieved on September 16, 1957 and the reactor is currently operating at 4.0 MW on a 64h per week cycle. Since 1996, an IEA-R1 reactor ageing study was established at the Research Reactor Center (CRPq) related with general deterioration of components belonging to some operational systems, as cooling towers from secondary cooling system, piping and pumps, sample irradiation devices, radiation monitoring system, fuel elements, rod drive mechanisms, nuclear and process instrumentation and safety operational system. Although basic structures are almost the same as the original design, several improvements and modifications in components, systems and structures had been made along reactor life. This work aims to show the development of the ageing program in the IEA-R1 reactor and the upgrading (modernization) that was carried out, concerning several equipment and system in the

Ageing implementation and refurbishment development at the IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor: a 15 years experience

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cardenas, Jose Patricio N.; Ricci Filho, Walter; Carvalho, Marcos R. de; Berretta, Jose Roberto; Marra Neto, Adolfo, E-mail: ahiru@ipen.b, E-mail: wricci@ipen.b, E-mail: carvalho@ipen.b, E-mail: jrretta@ipen.b, E-mail: amneto@ipen.b [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2011-07-01

IPEN (Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares) is a nuclear research center established into the Secretary of Science and Technology from the government of the state of Sao Paulo, and administered both technically and financially by Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear (CNEN), a federal government organization under the Ministry of Science and Technology. The institute is located inside the campus of the University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo city, Brazil. One of major nuclear facilities at IPEN is the IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor. It is the unique Brazilian research reactor with substantial power level suitable for application with research in physics, chemistry, biology and engineering, as well as radioisotope production for medical and other applications. Designed and built by Babcok-Wilcox, in accordance with technical specifications established by the Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission, and financed by the US Atoms for Peace Program, it is a swimming pool type reactor, moderated and cooled by light water and uses graphite and beryllium as reflector elements. The first criticality was achieved on September 16, 1957 and the reactor is currently operating at 4.0 MW on a 64h per week cycle. Since 1996, an IEA-R1 reactor ageing study was established at the Research Reactor Center (CRPq) related with general deterioration of components belonging to some operational systems, as cooling towers from secondary cooling system, piping and pumps, sample irradiation devices, radiation monitoring system, fuel elements, rod drive mechanisms, nuclear and process instrumentation and safety operational system. Although basic structures are almost the same as the original design, several improvements and modifications in components, systems and structures had been made along reactor life. This work aims to show the development of the ageing program in the IEA-R1 reactor and the upgrading (modernization) that was carried out, concerning several equipment and system in the

Low enriched uranium UAl{sub X}-Al targets for the production of Molybdenum-99 in the IEA-R1 and RMB reactors

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Domingos, Douglas B.; Silva, Antonio T. e; Joao, Thiago G.; Silva, Jose Eduardo R. da, E-mail: teixeira@ipen.b [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil); Nishiyama, Pedro J.B. de O., E-mail: pedro.julio@ctmsp.mar.mil.b [Centro Tecnologico da Marinha em Sao Paulo (CTMSP), SP (Brazil)

2011-07-01

The IEA-R1 reactor of IPEN/CNEN-SP in Brazil is a pool type research reactor cooled and moderated by demineralized water and having Beryllium and Graphite as reflectors. In 1997 the reactor received the operating licensing for 5 MW. A new research reactor is being planned in Brazil to replace the IEA-R1 reactor. This new reactor, the Brazilian Multipurpose Reactor (RMB), planned for 30 MW, is now in the conception design phase. Low enriched uranium (LEU) (<20% {sup 235}U) UAl{sub x} dispersed in Al targets are being considered for production of Molybdenum-99 ({sup 99}Mo) by fission. Neutronic and thermal-hydraulics calculations were performed, respectively, to compare the production of {sup 99}Mo for these targets in IEA-R1 reactor and RMB and to determine the temperatures achieved in the UAl{sub x}-Al targets during irradiation. For the neutronic calculations were utilized the computer codes HAMMER-TECHNION, CITATION and SCALE and for the thermal-hydraulics calculations was utilized the computer code MTRCR-IEAR1. (author)

Circuits design of action logics of the protection system of nuclear reactor IAN-R1 of Colombia

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gonzalez M, J. L.; Rivero G, T.; Sainz M, E.

2014-10-01

Due to the obsolescence of the instrumentation and control system of the nuclear research reactor IAN-R1, the Institute of Geology and Mining of Colombia, IngeoMinas, launched an international convoking for renewal it which was won by the Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares (ININ). Within systems to design, the reactor protection system is described as important for safety, because this carried out, among others two primary functions: 1) ensuring the reactor shutdown safely, and 2) controlling the interlocks to protect against operational errors if defined conditions have not been met. To fulfill these functions, the various subsystems related to the safety report the state in which they are using binary signals and are connected to the inputs of two redundant logic wiring circuits called action logics (Al) that are part of the reactor protection system. These Al also serve as logical interface to indicate at all times the status of subsystems, both the operator and other systems. In the event that any of the subsystems indicates a state of insecurity in the reactor, the Al generate signals off (or scram) of the reactor, maintaining the interlock until the operator sends a reset signal. In this paper the design, implementation, verification and testing of circuits that make up the Al 1 and 2 of IAN-R1 reactor is described, considering the fulfillment of the requirements that the different international standards imposed on this type of design. (Author)

IEA-R1 Nuclear Research Reactor: 58 Years of Operating Experience and Utilization for Research, Teaching and Radioisotopes Production

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cardenas, Jose Patricio Nahuel; Filho, Tufic Madi; Saxena, Rajendra; Filho, Walter Ricci [Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, IPEN-CNEN/SP, Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares - IPEN-CNEN/SP, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 2242 Cid Universitaria CEP: 05508-000- Sao Paulo-SP (Brazil)

2015-07-01

IEA-R1 research reactor at the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (Nuclear and Energy Research Institute) IPEN, Sao Paulo, Brazil is the largest power research reactor in Brazil, with a maximum power rating of 5 MWth. It is being used for basic and applied research in the nuclear and neutron related sciences, for the production of radioisotopes for medical and industrial applications, and for providing services of neutron activation analysis, real time neutron radiography, and neutron transmutation doping of silicon. IEA-R1 is a swimming pool reactor, with light water as the coolant and moderator, and graphite and beryllium as reflectors. The reactor was commissioned on September 16, 1957 and achieved its first criticality. It is currently operating at 4.5 MWth with a 60-hour cycle per week. In the early sixties, IPEN produced {sup 131}I, {sup 32}P, {sup 198}Au, {sup 24}Na, {sup 35}S, {sup 51}Cr and labeled compounds for medical use. During the past several years, a concerted effort has been made in order to upgrade the reactor power to 5 MWth through refurbishment and modernization programs. One of the reasons for this decision was to produce {sup 99}Mo at IPEN. The reactor cycle will be gradually increased to 120 hours per week continuous operation. It is anticipated that these programs will assure the safe and sustainable operation of the IEA-R1 reactor for several more years, to produce important primary radioisotopes {sup 99}Mo, {sup 125}I, {sup 131}I, {sup 153}Sm and {sup 192}Ir. Currently, all aspects of dealing with fuel element fabrication, fuel transportation, isotope processing, and spent fuel storage are handled by IPEN at the site. The reactor modernization program is slated for completion by 2015. This paper describes 58 years of operating experience and utilization of the IEA-R1 research reactor for research, teaching and radioisotopes production. (authors)

Calculations and selection of a TRIGA core for the Nuclear Reactor IAN-R1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Castiblanco, L.A.; Sarta, J.A.

1997-01-01

The Reactor Group used the code WIMS reduced to five groups of energy, together with the code CITATION, and evaluated four configurations for a core, according to the grid actually installed. The four configurations were taken from the two proposals presented to the Instituto de Ciencias Nucleares y Energias Alternativas by General Atomics Company. In this paper, the Authors selected the best configuration according to the performance of flux distribution and excess reactivity, for a TRIGA core to be installed in the Nuclear Reactor IAN-R1

Ageing Management Programme for the IEA-R1 Reactor in São Paulo, Brazil

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ramanathan, L. V. [Institute of Energy and Nuclear Research (IPEN), National Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN), São Paulo (Brazil)

2014-08-15

IEA-R1 is a swimming pool type reactor. It is moderated and cooled by light water and uses graphite and beryllium as reflector elements. First criticality was achieved on 16 September 1957, and the reactor is currently operating at 4.0 MW on a 64 h per week cycle. In 1996, a reactor ageing study was established to determine general deterioration of systems and components such as cooling towers, secondary cooling system, piping, pumps, specimen irradiation devices, radiation monitoring system, fuel elements, rod drive mechanisms, nuclear and process instrumentation, and safety system. The basic structure of the reactor from the original design has been maintained, but several improvements and modifications have been made over the years to various components, systems and structures. During the period 1996–2005 the reactor power was increased from 2 MW to 5 MW and the operational cycle from 8 h per day for 5 days a week to 120 h continuous per week, mainly to increase production of {sup 99}Mo. Prior to increasing reactor power, several modifications were made to the reactor system and its components. Simultaneously, a vigorous ageing management, inspection and modernization programme was put in place.

The Swedish Zero Power Reactor R0

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Landergaard, Olof; Cavallin, Kaj; Jonsson, Georg

1961-05-15

The reactor R0 is a critical facility built for heavy water and natural uranium or fuel of low enrichment,, The first criticality was achieved September 25, 1959. During a first period of more than two years the R0 will be operated as a bare reactor in order to simplify interpretation of results. The reactor tank is 3. 2 m high and 2. 25 m in diameter. The fuel suspension system is quite flexible in order to facilitate fuel exchange and lattice variations. The temperature of the water can be varied between about 10 and 90 C by means of a heater and a cooler placed in the external circulating system. The instrumentation of the reactor has to meet the safety requirements not only during operation but also during rearrangements of the core in the shut-down state. Therefore, the shut-down state is always defined by a certain low 'safe' moderator level in the reactor tank. A number of safety rods are normally kept above the moderator ready for action. For manual or automatic control of the reactor power a specially designed piston pump is needed, by which the moderator level is varied. The pump speed is controlled from the reactor power error by means of a Ward-Leonard system. Moderator level measurement is made by means of a water gauge with an accuracy of {+-} 0. 1 mm.

The Swedish Zero Power Reactor R0

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Landergaard, Olof; Cavallin, Kaj; Jonsson, Georg

1961-05-01

The reactor R0 is a critical facility built for heavy water and natural uranium or fuel of low enrichment,, The first criticality was achieved September 25, 1959. During a first period of more than two years the R0 will be operated as a bare reactor in order to simplify interpretation of results. The reactor tank is 3. 2 m high and 2. 25 m in diameter. The fuel suspension system is quite flexible in order to facilitate fuel exchange and lattice variations. The temperature of the water can be varied between about 10 and 90 C by means of a heater and a cooler placed in the external circulating system. The instrumentation of the reactor has to meet the safety requirements not only during operation but also during rearrangements of the core in the shut-down state. Therefore, the shut-down state is always defined by a certain low 'safe' moderator level in the reactor tank. A number of safety rods are normally kept above the moderator ready for action. For manual or automatic control of the reactor power a specially designed piston pump is needed, by which the moderator level is varied. The pump speed is controlled from the reactor power error by means of a Ward-Leonard system. Moderator level measurement is made by means of a water gauge with an accuracy of ± 0. 1 mm

Application of safety checklist to the analysis of the IEA-R1 reactor water retreatment system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sauer, Maria Eugenia Lago Jacques; Sara Neto, Antonio Jorge; Lima, Toni Carlos Caboclo de; Ribeiro, Maria Alice Morato

2005-01-01

In 1999, the management of the IEA-R1 Research Reactor (pool type - 5 MWth), located at IPEN/CNEN-SP, started the evaluation of the Reactor Pool Water Retreatment System to identify operational aspects, which could compromise the operators safety. The purpose was to identify and propose enhancements to the system which would be installed to substitute for the existing one. This process was conducted through a qualitative study of the system in operation. This study was carried out by a team composed of specialists in reactor operation, systems maintenance and radiological protection, and one safety analyst. The study consisted, basically, in local inspections to verify the physical and operational conditions of each equipment / component as well as aspects related to maintenance activities of the system. The process control and the operator procedures associated with the retreatment of the reactor pool water were also reviewed. The methodology adopted to develop the study was based in process hazard analysis technique named Safety Checklist. This paper presents a summary of this study and the main results obtained. Some operational and safety problems identified, the prevention and/or correction means to avoid them, and the recommendations and suggestions that have been implemented to the new design of the IEA-R1 Reactor Water Retreatment System, whose installation was concluded in 2003, are also presented. (author)

Calculation of neutronic parameters of IEA-R1 reactor and purpose of a new configuration

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kosaka, N.; Fanaro, L.C.C.B.; Yamaguchi, M.

1989-01-01

The program for reducing the fuel enrichment of the IEA-R1 reactor considers fuel plates containing U308-AL with 19,9% of U-235. The geometry of the new 18 fuel plate fuel elements has been kept the same. This work describes the calculation methods utilized at IPEN-CNEN/SP and some neutronic parameters of the present configuration of IEA-R1 as well as for a new configuration porposed with a new LEU fuel element are shown. (author) [pt

Thermal neutron flux distribution in the ET R R-1 reactor core as experimentally measured and theoretically calculated by the code triton

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Imam, M [National center for nuclear safety and radiation control, atomic energy authority, Cairo, (Egypt)

1995-10-01

Thermal neutron flux distributions that were measured earlier at the ET-R R-1 reactor are compared with those calculated by the three dimensional diffusion code Triton. This comparison was made for the horizontal and vertical flux distributions. The horizontal thermal flux distributions considered in this comparison were along the core diagonals at two planes of different heights from core bottom, where one at a level passing through the control rod at core center and the other at a level below this control rod. In the meantime all the control rods were taken into consideration. The effect of the existence of a water cavity inside the core as well as the influence of the control rods on the thermal flux are illustrated in this work. The vertical thermal flux distributions considered in the comparison were at two positions in core namely; one along the core height the horizontal reactor power distribution along the core height and the horizontal reactor power distribution along the core diagonal as calculated by the code Triton are also given this work. 8 figs., 1 tab.

Summary of IEA-R1 research a reactor licensing related to its power increase from 2 to 10 MW

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1989-04-01

This work is a summary of IEA-R1 research reactor licensing related to its power increase from 2 to 10 MW. It reports also safety requirements, fuel elements, and reactor control modifications inherent to power increase. (A.C.A.S.)

Application of nondestructive methods for qualification of high density fuels in the IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Silva, Jose E.R.; Silva, Antonio T.; Domingos, Douglas B.; Terremoto, Luis A.A.

2011-01-01

IPEN/CNEN-SP manufactures fuels to be used in its research reactor - the IEA-R1. To qualify those fuels, it is necessary to check if they have a good performance under irradiation. As Brazil still does not have nuclear research reactors with high neutron fluxes, or suitable hot cells for carrying out post-irradiation examination of nuclear fuels, IPEN/CNEN-SP has conducted a fuel qualification program based on the use of uranium compounds (U 3 O 8 and U 3 Si 2 dispersed in Al matrix) internationally tested and qualified to be used in research reactors, and has attained experience in the technological development stages for the manufacturing of fuel plates, irradiation and non-destructive post-irradiation testing. Fuel elements containing low volume fractions of fuel in the dispersion were manufactured and irradiated successfully directly in the core of the IEA-R1. However, there are plans at IPEN/CNEN-SP to increase the uranium density of the fuels. Ten fuel miniplates (five containing U 3 O 8 -Al and five containing U 3 Si 2 -Al), with densities of 3.2 gU/cm 3 and 4.8 gU/cm 3 respectively, are being irradiated inside an irradiation device placed in a peripheral position of the IEA-R1 core. Non-destructive methods will be used to evaluate irradiation performance of the fuel miniplates after successive cycles of irradiation, by means: monitoring the reactor parameters during operation; periodic underwater visual inspection of fuel miniplates, eventual sipping test for fuel miniplates suspected of leakage and underwater measuring of the miniplate thickness for assessment of the fuel miniplate swelling. (author)

Neutrons characterization of the nuclear reactor Ian-R1 of Colombia; Caracterizacion de los neutrones del reactor nuclear IAN-R1 de Colombia

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gonzalez P, L. X.; Martinez O, S. A. [Universidad Pedagogica y Tecnologica de Colombia, Grupo de Fisica Nuclear Aplicada y Simulacion, Carretera Central del Norte Km. 1, Via Paipa, 150003 Tunja, Boyaca (Colombia); Vega C, H. R., E-mail: s.agustin.martinez@uptc.edu.co [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Estudios Nucleares, Cipres No. 10, Fracc. La Penuela, 98068 Zacatecas (Mexico)

2014-08-15

By means of Monte Carlo methods, with the code MCNPX, the neutron characteristics of the research nuclear reactor Ian-R1 of Colombia, in power off but with the neutrons source in their start position, have been valued. The neutrons spectra, the total flow and their average power were calculated in the irradiation spaces inside the graphite reflector, as well as in the cells with air. Also the spectra, the total flow and the absorbed dose were calculated in several places distributed along the radial shaft inside the water moderator. The neutrons total flow was also considered to the long of the axial shaft. The characteristics of the neutrons spectra vary depending on their position regarding the source and the material that surrounds to the cell where the calculation was made. (Author)

Real time monitoring system of the operation variables of the TRIGA IPR-R1 nuclear research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ricardo, Carla Pereira; Mesquita, Amir Zacarias

2007-01-01

During the last two years all the operation parameters of the TRIGA IPR-R1 were monitored and real time indicated bu the data acquisition system developed for the reactor. All the information were stored on a rigid disk, at the collection system computer, leaving the information on the reactor performance and behaviour available for consultation in a chronological order. The data acquisition program has been updated and new reactor operation parameters were included for increasing the investigation and experiments possibilities. The register of reactor operation variables are important for the immediate or subsequent safety analyses for reporting the reactor operations to the external organizations. This data acquisition satisfy the IAEA recommendations. (author)

Measurement and calculation of spatial and energetic neutron flux in the IEA-R1 reactor core

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bittelli, U.D.

1988-01-01

This work presents spatial and energetic flux distribution measured in the IEA-R1 reactor core. The thermal neutron flux was measured by gold activation foils (bare and covered with cadmium) in the fuel element number 108 (reaction: 197 Au(n,γ) 198 Au) at 451W overall reactor power. The fast neutron flux was measured by indium activation foils (reaction: 115 In(n,n') 115m In) in the fuel elements number 94 at 4510W overall reactor power. The neutron energy spectrum was adjusted by SAND II code with the data produced by the irradiation of seven activation detectors in the fuel element number 94 at 4510 W overall reactor power. The following reactions were used: 58 Fe(n,γ) 59 Fe, 232 Th(n,γ) 233 Th, 197 Au(n,γ) 198 Au, 59 Co(n,γ) 60 Co, 54 Fe(n,p) 54 Mn, 24 Mg(n,p) 24 Na, 47 Ti(n,p) 47 Sc, 48 Ti(n,p) 48 Sc and 115 In(n,n') 115m In. The experimental results compared to those obtained by CITATION (spatial distribution flux) and HAMMER (energetic distribution flux) code, showed good agreement. The results presented in this work are a good contribution for a better knowledge of spatial and energetic neutron flux distribution in the IEA-R1 reactor core, besides that the experimental procedure is easily applicable to another situations. (autor) [pt

The IPR-R1 TRIGA Mark I Reactor in 39 years: Operations and general improvements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maretti Junior, Fausto; Prado Fernandes, Marcio; Oliveira, Paulo Fernando; Alves de Amorim, Valter

1999-01-01

The nuclear IPR-R1 TRIGA Mark I Reactor operating in the Nuclear Technology Development Center, originally Institute for Radioactive Research in Minas Gerais, Brazil, was dedicated in November 11, 1960. Initially operating for the production of radioisotopes for different uses, it started later to be used in large scale for neutron activation analysis and training of operators for nuclear power plants. Many improvements have been made throughout these years to provide a better performance in its operation and safety conditions. A new cooling system to operate until 300 kW, a new control rod mechanism, an aluminum tank for the reactor pool, an optimization in the pneumatic system, a new reactor control console and a general remodeling of the reactor laboratory were some of the improvements added. To prevent and mitigate the ageing effects, the reactor operation personnel is starting a program to minimize future operation problems. This paper describes the improvements made, the results obtained during the past 39 years, and the precautions taken to ensure future safe operation of the reactor to give operators better conditions of safe work. (author)

Thermal power calibrations of the IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor by the calorimetric and the heat balance methods

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mesquita, Amir Zacarias; Rezende, Hugo Cesar; Souza, Rose Mary Gomes do Prado

2009-01-01

Since the first nuclear reactor was built, a number of methodological variations have been evolved for the calibration of the reactor thermal power. Power monitoring of reactors is done by means of neutronic instruments, but its calibration is always done by thermal procedures. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of the thermal power calibration carried out on March 5th, 2009 in the IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor. It was used two procedures: the calorimetric and heat balance methods. The calorimetric procedure was done with the reactor operating at a constant power, with primary cooling system switched off. The rate of temperature rise of the water was recorded. The reactor power is calculate as a function of the temperature-rise rate and the system heat capacity constant. The heat balance procedure consists in the steady-state energy balance of the primary cooling loop of the reactor. For this balance, the inlet and outlet temperatures and the water flow in the primary cooling loop were measured. The heat transferred through the primary loop was added to the heat leakage from the reactor pool. The calorimetric method calibration presented a large uncertainty. The main source of error was the determination of the heat content of the system, due to a large uncertainty in the volume of the water in the system and a lack of homogenization of the water temperature. The heat balance calibration in the primary loop is the standard procedure for calibrating the power of the IPR-R1 TRIGA nuclear reactor. (author))

Safe dismantling of the SVAFO research reactors R2 and R2-0 in Sweden

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

ARNOLD, Hans-Uwe; BROY, Yvonne; Dirk Schneider

2017-01-01

The R2 and R2-0 reactors were part of the Swedish government's research program on nuclear power from the early 1960's. Both reactors were shut down in 2005 following a decision by former operator Studsvik Nuclear AB. The decommissioning of the R2 and R2-0 reactors is divided into three phases. The first phase - awarded to AREVA - involved dismantling of the reactors and associated systems in the reactor pool, treatment of the disassembled components as well as draining, cleaning and emptying the pool. In the second phase, the pool structure itself will be dismantled, while removal of remaining reactor systems, treatment and disposal of materials and clean-up will be carried out in the third stage. The entire work is planned to be completed before the end of this decade. The paper describes the several steps of phase 1 - starting with the team building, followed by the dismantling operations and covers challenges encountered and lessons learned as well. The reactors consist of 5.400 kg aluminum, 6.000 kg stainless steel restraint structures as well as, connection elements of the mostly flanged components (1.000 kg). The most demanding - from a radiological point of view - was the R2-0 reactor that was limited to ∼ 1 m"3 construction volumes but with an extremely heterogeneous activation profile. Based on the calculated radiological entrance data and later sampling, nuclide vectors for both reactors depending on the real placement of the single component and on the material (aluminum and stainless steel) were created. Finally, for the highest activated component from R2 reactor, 85 Sv/h were measured. The dismantling principles - adopted on a safety point of view - were the following: The always protected base area of the ponds served as a flexible buffer area for waste components and packaging. Specific protections were also installed on the walls to protect them from mechanical stress which may occur during dismantling work. A specific work platform was

Conceptual designs of tokamak reactor and R D

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fukai, Yuzo; Yamato, Harumi; Sawada, Yoshio

1983-01-01

The conceptual design of both FER (Fusion Experimental Reactor) and R-project is now under way as the new step of JT-60. From the engineering viewpoint, these reactors, requiring D-T operation, have the challenge, such as the handling of tritium and components irradiated by neutron bombardment. Toshiba's design team is participating to these projects in order to realize the reactor and plant concept coping with the above objectives. This paper represents the conceptual design contributions of the FER and R-project as well as R D technology which are now under development, such as tritium handling app aratus, reactor materials, etc. (author)

Application of nondestructive methods for qualification of high density fuels in the IEA-R1 reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Silva, Jose E.R.; Silva, Antonio T.; Domingos, Douglas B.; Terremoto, Luis A.A., E-mail: jersilva@ipen.b [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2011-07-01

IPEN/CNEN-SP manufactures fuels to be used in its research reactor - the IEA-R1. To qualify those fuels, it is necessary to check if they have a good performance under irradiation. As Brazil still does not have nuclear research reactors with high neutron fluxes, or suitable hot cells for carrying out post-irradiation examination of nuclear fuels, IPEN/CNEN-SP has conducted a fuel qualification program based on the use of uranium compounds (U{sub 3}O{sub 8} and U{sub 3}Si{sub 2} dispersed in Al matrix) internationally tested and qualified to be used in research reactors, and has attained experience in the technological development stages for the manufacturing of fuel plates, irradiation and non-destructive post-irradiation testing. Fuel elements containing low volume fractions of fuel in the dispersion were manufactured and irradiated successfully directly in the core of the IEA-R1. However, there are plans at IPEN/CNEN-SP to increase the uranium density of the fuels. Ten fuel miniplates (five containing U{sub 3}O{sub 8}-Al and five containing U{sub 3}Si{sub 2}-Al), with densities of 3.2 gU/cm{sup 3} and 4.8 gU/cm{sup 3} respectively, are being irradiated inside an irradiation device placed in a peripheral position of the IEA-R1 core. Non-destructive methods will be used to evaluate irradiation performance of the fuel miniplates after successive cycles of irradiation, by means: monitoring the reactor parameters during operation; periodic underwater visual inspection of fuel miniplates, eventual sipping test for fuel miniplates suspected of leakage and underwater measuring of the miniplate thickness for assessment of the fuel miniplate swelling. (author)

Device for neutron flux monitoring in IEA-R1 reactor using rhodium self powered neutron detector; Dispositivo de mapeamento de fluxo de neutron atraves do SPN/Rodio no IEA-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ricci Filho, Walter; Fernando, Alberto de Jesus; Jerez, Rogerio; Tondin, Julio B.M.; Pasqualetto, Hertz [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2000-07-01

The IEA-R1 reactor has undergone a modernization tio increase its operating power to 5 MW, in order to allow a more efficient production of radioisotopes. The objective of this work is to provide the reactor with flux monitoring device using a rhodium self powered neutron detector. Self powered detectors are rugged miniature devices with are increasingly being used for fixed in core reactor monitoring both for safety purposes and flux mapping. The work presents the results obtained with Rhodium-SPND in several irradiation position inside the reactor core. (author)

SAVANNAH RIVER SITE R REACTOR DISASSEMBLY BASIN IN SITU DECOMMISSIONING

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Langton, C.; Blankenship, J.; Griffin, W.; Serrato, M.

2009-12-03

The US DOE concept for facility in-situ decommissioning (ISD) is to physically stabilize and isolate in tact, structurally sound facilities that are no longer needed for their original purpose of, i.e., generating (reactor facilities), processing(isotope separation facilities) or storing radioactive materials. The 105-R Disassembly Basin is the first SRS reactor facility to undergo the in-situ decommissioning (ISD) process. This ISD process complies with the105-R Disassembly Basin project strategy as outlined in the Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analysis for the Grouting of the R-Reactor Disassembly Basin at the Savannah River Site and includes: (1) Managing residual water by solidification in-place or evaporation at another facility; (2) Filling the below grade portion of the basin with cementitious materials to physically stabilize the basin and prevent collapse of the final cap - Sludge and debris in the bottom few feet of the basin will be encapsulated between the basin floor and overlying fill material to isolate if from the environment; (3) Demolishing the above grade portion of the structure and relocating the resulting debris to another location or disposing of the debris in-place; and (4) Capping the basin area with a concrete slab which is part of an engineered cap to prevent inadvertent intrusion. The estimated total grout volume to fill the 105-R Reactor Disassembly Basin is 24,424 cubic meters or 31,945 cubic yards. Portland cement-based structural fill materials were design and tested for the reactor ISD project and a placement strategy for stabilizing the basin was developed. Based on structural engineering analyses and work flow considerations, the recommended maximum lift height is 5 feet with 24 hours between lifts. Pertinent data and information related to the SRS 105-R-Reactor Disassembly Basin in-situ decommissioning include: regulatory documentation, residual water management, area preparation activities, technology needs, fill material designs

Reactivity-worth estimates of the OSMOSE samples in the MINERVE reactor R1-UO2 configuration.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Klann, R. T.; Perret, G.; Nuclear Engineering Division

2007-10-03

An initial series of calculations of the reactivity-worth of the OSMOSE samples in the MINERVE reactor with the R1-UO2 core configuration were completed. The reactor model was generated using the REBUS code developed at Argonne National Laboratory. The calculations are based on the specifications for fabrication, so they are considered preliminary until sampling and analysis have been completed on the fabricated samples. The estimates indicate a range of reactivity effect from -22 pcm to +25 pcm compared to the natural U sample.

Measured and calculated effective delayed neutron fraction of the IPR-R1 Triga reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Souza, Rose Mary G.P.; Dalle, Hugo M.; Campolina, Daniel A.M., E-mail: souzarm@cdtn.b, E-mail: dallehm@cdtn.b, E-mail: campolina@cdtn.b [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2011-07-01

The effective delayed neutron fraction, {beta}{sub eff}, one of the most important parameter in reactor kinetics, was measured for the 100 kW IPR-R1 TRIGA Mark I research reactor, located at the Nuclear Technology Development Center - CDTN, Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The current reactor core has 63 fuel elements, containing about 8.5% and 8% by weight of uranium enriched to 20% in U{sup 235}. The core has cylindrical configuration with an annular graphite reflector. Since the first criticality of the reactor in November 1960, the core configuration and the number of fuel elements have been changed several times. At that time, the reactor power was 30 kW, there were 56 fuel elements in the core, and the {beta}{sub eff} value for the reactor recommended by General Atomic (manufacturer of TRIGA) was 790 pcm. The current {beta}{sub eff} parameter was determined from experimental methods based on inhour equation and on the control rod drops. The estimated values obtained were (774 {+-} 38) pcm and (744 {+-} 20) pcm, respectively. The {beta}{sub eff} was calculated by Monte Carlo transport code MCNP5 and it was obtained 747 pcm. The calculated and measured values are in good agreement, and the relative percentage error is -3.6% for the first case, and 0.4% for the second one. (author)

Study of neutronic flux in IPR-R1 reactor with MCNPX; Estudo do fluxo neutronico no reator IPR-R1 com o MCNPX

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Melo, J.A.S.; Castrillo, L.S., E-mail: julio.angelo@poli.br, E-mail: lazara@poli.br [Universidade de Pernambuco (UPE), Recife, PE (Brazil). Escola Politecnica; Oliveira, R.M.B.M., E-mail: romero.matias@educacao.pe.gov.br [Secretaria Executiva de Educacao do Estado de Pernambuco (SEE), Recife, PE (Brazil)

2016-11-01

MCNPX computer code, one of the latest versions of code MCNP transport were used to study the flux distribution and its neutronic fluence as a function of energy in two research reactor irradiation IPR-R1. The model developed was validated with research conducted by Dalle (2005). Initially, in the simulation is considered fresh fuel whose core configuration contained three neutron rods control, being two of them 100% ejected while the other inserted 3,1 x 10{sup -1} m deep, as adopted in the literature situation. The neutron source used was the critical type, through KSRC card. The results of the neutron flow and neutronic fluence were obtained in the central tube and the turntable on a range of energy spectrum that ranged from 1.0 x 10{sup -9} MeV to 10 MeV, showing good correlations with the model used in validation. Finally, a hypothetical situation wherein the three reactor control rods are ejected simultaneously was simulated. The simulation results showed an increase in the neutron flux of 7% in the central tube and 5% on the turntable.

Experimental distribution of coolant in the IPR-R1 Triga nuclear reactor core

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mesquita, Amir Z., E-mail: amir@cdtn.b [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil). Servico de Tecnologia de Reatores; Palma, Daniel A.P., E-mail: dapalma@cnen.gov.b [Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear (CNEN/RJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil); Costa, Antonella L.; Pereira, Claubia; Veloso, Maria A.F.; Reis, Patricia A.L., E-mail: claubia@nuclear.ufmg.b, E-mail: dora@nuclear.ufmg.b [Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (DEN/UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil). Dept. de Engenharia Nuclear

2011-07-01

The IPR-R1 is a typical TRIGA Mark I light-water and open pool type reactor. The core has an annular configuration of six rings and is cooled by natural circulation. The core coolant channels extend from the bottom grid plate to the top grid plate. The cooling water flows through the holes in the bottom grid plate, passes through the lower unheated region of the element, flows upwards through the active region, passes through the upper unheated region, and finally leaves the channel through the differential area between a triangular spacer block on the top of the fuel element and a round hole in the grid. Direct measurement of the flow rate in a coolant channel is difficult because of the bulky size and low accuracy of flow meters. The flow rate through the channel may be determined indirectly from the heat balance across the channel using measurements of the water inlet and outlet temperatures. This paper presents the experiments performed in the IPR-R1 reactor to monitoring some thermo-hydraulic parameters in the core coolant channels, such as: the radial and axial temperature profile, temperature, velocity, mass flow rate, mass flux and Reynolds's number. Some results were compared with theoretical predictions, as it was expected the variables follow the power distribution (or neutron flux) in the core. (author)

Experimental distribution of coolant in the IPR-R1 Triga nuclear reactor core

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mesquita, Amir Z.; Costa, Antonella L.; Pereira, Claubia; Veloso, Maria A.F.; Reis, Patricia A.L.

2011-01-01

The IPR-R1 is a typical TRIGA Mark I light-water and open pool type reactor. The core has an annular configuration of six rings and is cooled by natural circulation. The core coolant channels extend from the bottom grid plate to the top grid plate. The cooling water flows through the holes in the bottom grid plate, passes through the lower unheated region of the element, flows upwards through the active region, passes through the upper unheated region, and finally leaves the channel through the differential area between a triangular spacer block on the top of the fuel element and a round hole in the grid. Direct measurement of the flow rate in a coolant channel is difficult because of the bulky size and low accuracy of flow meters. The flow rate through the channel may be determined indirectly from the heat balance across the channel using measurements of the water inlet and outlet temperatures. This paper presents the experiments performed in the IPR-R1 reactor to monitoring some thermo-hydraulic parameters in the core coolant channels, such as: the radial and axial temperature profile, temperature, velocity, mass flow rate, mass flux and Reynolds's number. Some results were compared with theoretical predictions, as it was expected the variables follow the power distribution (or neutron flux) in the core. (author)

Feasibility study of application of Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) method in TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor; Estudo da viabilidade de aplicação do método Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) no reator TRIGA IPR-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Guerra, Bruno Teixeira

2016-07-01

The TRIGA Mark I IPR-R1 research reactor is located at Nuclear Technology Development Centre (CDTN), Brazilian Commission for Nuclear Energy (CNEN), in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The reactor operates at 100 kW but the core configuration allows the increasing of the power up to 250 kW. It has been applied research, training and radioisotopes production. The establishment of the Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) method at the TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor will significantly increase the types of matrices analysed as well as the number of chemical elements. Additionally it will complement the neutron activation analysis. This work presents a proposed design of a PGNAA facility to be installed at the TRIGA IPR-R1. The proposed design is based on a tube as a neutron guide from the reactor core, inside the reactor pool, 6 m below the room’s level where shall be located the rack containing the set sample/detector/shielding. Thus, the aim of this study is to verify the feasibility to establish the PGNAA method in IPR-R1 through theoretical study applying the Monte Carlo code. The feasibility of establishing the PGAA method at the IPR-R1 installations was evaluated through of the calculations of neutron flux, radioactive capture reaction rates and detection limits for some isotopes. According to the obtained results, it can be concluded that is possible to establish the PGAA method at the IPR-R1 reactor, even with some restrictions in its theoretical design calculated by MCNP. (author)

Thermal neutron flux measurements in the rotary specimen rack of the IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Souza, Rose Mary G. do Prado; Rodrigues, Rogério R.; Souza, Luiz Claudio A., E-mail: souzarm@cdtn.br, E-mail: rrr@cdtn.br, E-mail: lcas@cdtn.br [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2017-07-01

The thermal neutron flux in the rotary specimen rack of the IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor at the Nuclear Technology Development Center (CDTN), Belo Horizonte, Brazil, has been measured by the neutron activation method, using bare and cadmium covered gold foils. Those foils were irradiated in the rotary specimen rack with the reactor at 100 kW. The reactor core configuration has 63 fuel elements, composed of 59 original aluminum-clad elements and 4 stainless steel-clad fuel elements. The gamma activities of the foils were measured using Ge spectrometer. The perturbations of the thermal neutron flux caused by the introduction of an absorbing foil into the medium were considered in order to obtain accurate determination of the flux. The thermal neutron flux obtained was 7.4 x 10{sup 11} n.cm{sup -2}.s{sup -1}. (author)

Experiment of IEA-R1 reactor core cooling by air convection after pool water loss accident

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Torres, Walmir Maximo; Baptista Filho, Benedito Dias

2000-01-01

This paper presents a study of a Emergency Core Cooling to be applied to the IEA-R1 reactor. This system must have the characteristics of passive action, with water spraying over the core, and feeding by gravity from elevated reservoirs. In the evaluation, this system must demonstrate that when the reservoirs are emptied, the core cooling must assure to be fulfilled by air natural convection. This work presents the results of temperature distribution in a test section with plates electrically heated simulation the heat generation conditions on the most heated reactor element

International benchmark study of advanced thermal hydraulic safety analysis codes against measurements on IEA-R1 research reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hainoun, A., E-mail: pscientific2@aec.org.sy [Atomic Energy Commission of Syria (AECS), Nuclear Engineering Department, P.O. Box 6091, Damascus (Syrian Arab Republic); Doval, A. [Nuclear Engineering Department, Av. Cmdt. Luis Piedrabuena 4950, C.P. 8400 S.C de Bariloche, Rio Negro (Argentina); Umbehaun, P. [Centro de Engenharia Nuclear – CEN, IPEN-CNEN/SP, Av. Lineu Prestes 2242-Cidade Universitaria, CEP-05508-000 São Paulo, SP (Brazil); Chatzidakis, S. [School of Nuclear Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907 (United States); Ghazi, N. [Atomic Energy Commission of Syria (AECS), Nuclear Engineering Department, P.O. Box 6091, Damascus (Syrian Arab Republic); Park, S. [Research Reactor Design and Engineering Division, Basic Science Project Operation Dept., Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (Korea, Republic of); Mladin, M. [Institute for Nuclear Research, Campului Street No. 1, P.O. Box 78, 115400 Mioveni, Arges (Romania); Shokr, A. [Division of Nuclear Installation Safety, Research Reactor Safety Section, International Atomic Energy Agency, A-1400 Vienna (Austria)

2014-12-15

Highlights: • A set of advanced system thermal hydraulic codes are benchmarked against IFA of IEA-R1. • Comparative safety analysis of IEA-R1 reactor during LOFA by 7 working teams. • This work covers both experimental and calculation effort and presents new out findings on TH of RR that have not been reported before. • LOFA results discrepancies from 7% to 20% for coolant and peak clad temperatures are predicted conservatively. - Abstract: In the framework of the IAEA Coordination Research Project on “Innovative methods in research reactor analysis: Benchmark against experimental data on neutronics and thermal hydraulic computational methods and tools for operation and safety analysis of research reactors” the Brazilian research reactor IEA-R1 has been selected as reference facility to perform benchmark calculations for a set of thermal hydraulic codes being widely used by international teams in the field of research reactor (RR) deterministic safety analysis. The goal of the conducted benchmark is to demonstrate the application of innovative reactor analysis tools in the research reactor community, validation of the applied codes and application of the validated codes to perform comprehensive safety analysis of RR. The IEA-R1 is equipped with an Instrumented Fuel Assembly (IFA) which provided measurements for normal operation and loss of flow transient. The measurements comprised coolant and cladding temperatures, reactor power and flow rate. Temperatures are measured at three different radial and axial positions of IFA summing up to 12 measuring points in addition to the coolant inlet and outlet temperatures. The considered benchmark deals with the loss of reactor flow and the subsequent flow reversal from downward forced to upward natural circulation and presents therefore relevant phenomena for the RR safety analysis. The benchmark calculations were performed independently by the participating teams using different thermal hydraulic and safety

Analysis of the IEA-R1 reactor start-up procedures - an application of the HazOp method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sauer, Maria Eugenia Lago Jacques

2000-01-01

An analysis of technological catastrophic events that took place in this century shows that human failure and vulnerability of risk management programs are the main causes for the occurrence of accidents. As an example, plants and complex systems where the interface man-machine is close, the frequency of failures tends to be higher. Thus, a comprehensive knowledge of how a specific process can be potentially hazardous is a sine qua non condition to the operators training, as well as to define and implement more efficient plans for loss prevention and risk management. A study of the IEA-R1 research reactor start-up procedures was carried out, based upon the methodology Hazard and Operability Study (HazOp). The analytical and qualitative multidisciplinary HazOp approach provided means to a comprehensive review of the reactor start-up procedures, contributing to improve the understanding of the potential hazards associated to deviations on performing this routine. The present work includes a historical summary and a detailed description of the HazOp technique, as well as case studies in the process industries and the use of expert systems in the application of the method. An analysis of 53 activities of the IEA-R1 reactor start-up procedures was made, resulting in 25 recommendations of changes covering aspects of the project, operation and safety of the reactor. Eleven recommendations have been implemented. (author)

The future of the IPR-R1 TRIGA MARK I reactor after 48 years operation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maretti, Fausto Junior; Sette Camara, Luiz Otavio I.; Oliveira, Paulo Fernando

2008-01-01

The TRIGA Mark I IPR-R1 Reactor operates in the Nuclear Technology Development Center/ Brazilian Committion for Nuclear Energy (CDTN/CNEN), originally Institute of Radioactive Researches, in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, since November 6, 1960. Initially it operated for isotope production for different uses, being later used in wide scale for another purposes as analyses for activation with neutrons and training of nuclear power plants operators. Dozens of degree theses were also developed with the use of the reactor. Along the years, several improvements were introduced in the reactor and its auxiliary systems, with the purpose to provide better use of the facilities and with the objective to increase the safety in the operation. The reactor is ready right now to operate at 250 kW, and for sure the nuclear applications programmed will be improved. The Operation Manual and the Safety Analysis report were already modified, as well as the Emergency Plan and the relative procedures to the same. After the tests at the end of 2008, the reactor will already be operating in the new power. This work presents a description of the several accomplishments of the last years and comments about the possibility of new uses for the reactor in the several areas of nuclear applications and some of the experiments and tests results during the upgrading program. (authors)

Nuclear research reactor IEA-R1 heat exchanger inlet nozzle flow - a preliminary study

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Angelo, Gabriel; Andrade, Delvonei Alves de; Fainer, Gerson; Angelo, Edvaldo

2009-01-01

As a computational fluid mechanics training task, a preliminary model was developed. ANSYS-CFX R code was used in order to study the flow at the inlet nozzle of the heat exchanger of the primary circuit of the nuclear research reactor IEA-R1. The geometry of the inlet nozzle is basically compounded by a cylinder and two radial rings which are welded on the shell. When doing so there is an offset between the holes through the shell and the inlet nozzle. Since it is not standardized by TEMA, the inlet nozzle was chosen for a preliminary study of the flow. Results for the proposed model are presented and discussed. (author)

Water chemical control of the TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor primary cooling system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Auler, Lucia M.L.A; Chaves, Renata D.A.; Palmieri, Helena E.L.; Menezes, Maria Angela de B.C.; Oliveira, Paulo F.; Kastner, Geraldo F.; Damazio, Ilza; Fagundes, Oliene dos R.; Cintra, Maria Olivia C.; Andrade, Geraldo V. de; Amaral, Angela M.; Franco, Milton B.; Fortes, Flavio; Gomes, Nilton Carlos; Vidal, Andrea; Maretti Junior, Fausto; Knupp, Eliana A.N.; Souza, Wagner de; Guedes, Joao B.; Furtado, Renato C.S.

2013-01-01

The TRIGA Mark I IPR-R1 reactor located at CDTN/CNEN has been in operation and contributed to research and with services to society since 1960. Is has been used in several activities such as nuclear power plant operation, graduate and post-graduate training courses, isotope production, and as an analytical irradiation tool of different types of samples. Among the several structural and operational safety requirements is the chemical quality control of the primary circuit cooling water. The aim of this work was to check the cooling water quality from the pool reactor. A water sampling plan was proposed (May, 2011 - June, 2012) and presents the results obtained in this period. The natural radioactivity level as gross alpha and gross beta activity and other chemical parameters (pH and electric conductivity) of the samples were analyzed. Some instrumental techniques were used: potentiometric methods (pH), conductometric methods (electrical conductivity, EC) and gross α and gross β proportional counting system). (author)

Operational parameters study of IPR-R1 TRIGA research reactor using virtual instruments

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pinto, Antonio Juscelino; Mesquita, Amir Zacarias; Lameiras, Fernando Soares

2013-01-01

The instrumentation of nuclear reactors is designed with the principle of reliability, redundancy and diversification of control systems. Reliable monitoring of the parameters involved in the chain reaction is of great importance regarding efficiency and operational safety of the installation. The main goal of the simulation system in this proposed paper is to provide the study and improvement in understanding how these operational variables are interrelated and their behavior especially those related to neutronic and thermohydraulics. The work will be developed using the software LabVIEW ® (Laboratory Virtual Instruments Engineering Workbench). The program will enable the study of the variables involved in the operation of the installation throughout its operating range, for instance, a few mW up to 250 kW. The IPR-R1 TRIGA is a research nuclear reactor placed in open pool and cooled by light water with natural circulation. It is located at the Nuclear Technology Development Center (CDTN), in Belo Horizonte Brazil. The developing system employs the modern concept of virtual instruments (VIs), using microprocessors and visual interface on video monitors. LabVIEW ® breaks the paradigm of text-based programming language, for programming based on icons. The system will enable the use of this reactor in training and personnel training in the nuclear field. The work follows the recommendations of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which has encouraged its members to develop strategic plans in order to use their research reactors. (author)

Operational parameters study of IPR-R1 TRIGA research reactor using virtual instruments

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pinto, Antonio Juscelino; Mesquita, Amir Zacarias; Lameiras, Fernando Soares, E-mail: ajp@cdtn.br, E-mail: amir@cdtn.br, E-mail: fsl@cdtn.br [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2013-07-01

The instrumentation of nuclear reactors is designed with the principle of reliability, redundancy and diversification of control systems. Reliable monitoring of the parameters involved in the chain reaction is of great importance regarding efficiency and operational safety of the installation. The main goal of the simulation system in this proposed paper is to provide the study and improvement in understanding how these operational variables are interrelated and their behavior especially those related to neutronic and thermohydraulics. The work will be developed using the software LabVIEW ® (Laboratory Virtual Instruments Engineering Workbench). The program will enable the study of the variables involved in the operation of the installation throughout its operating range, for instance, a few mW up to 250 kW. The IPR-R1 TRIGA is a research nuclear reactor placed in open pool and cooled by light water with natural circulation. It is located at the Nuclear Technology Development Center (CDTN), in Belo Horizonte Brazil. The developing system employs the modern concept of virtual instruments (VIs), using microprocessors and visual interface on video monitors. LabVIEW ® breaks the paradigm of text-based programming language, for programming based on icons. The system will enable the use of this reactor in training and personnel training in the nuclear field. The work follows the recommendations of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which has encouraged its members to develop strategic plans in order to use their research reactors. (author)

Justify of implementation of a hot water layer system in swimming pool research reactor IEA-R1m

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Toyoda, Eduardo Yoshio; Gordon, Ana Maria Pinho Leite; Sordi, Gian-Maria A.A.

2001-01-01

The IPEN/CNEN-SP has a swimming pool research reactor (IEA-R1m) in operation since 1957 at 2 MW. In 1998, after some modifications, its nominal power increased to 5 MW. Among these modifications some adaptations had to be accomplished in the radiological protection and operational procedure. The present work aim to study the need of implementation of a hot water layer in order to reduce the dose in the workers in the vicinity of the reactor swimming pool. Applying the principles of radioprotection optimization, it was concluded that the decision of the construction of one hot water layer system in the reactor swimming pool, is not necessary. (author)

Characterization of cartridge filters from the IEA-R1 Nuclear Reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2015-01-01

The management of radioactive waste ensures safety to human health and the environment nowadays and for the future, without overwhelming the upcoming generations. The primary characterization of radioactive waste is one of the main steps in the management of radioactive waste. This step permits to choose the best treatment for the radioactive waste before forwarding it to its final disposal. The aim of the present work is the primary characterization of cartridge filters from the IEA-R1 nuclear reactor utilizing gamma-ray spectrometry, and the method of Monte Carlo for calibration. The IEA-R1 is located in the Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN - CNEN) in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Cartridge filters are used for purification of the cooling water that is pumped through the core of the pool type nuclear research reactors. Once worn out, these filters are replaced and then become radioactive waste. Determination of the radioactive inventory is of paramount importance in the management of such radioactive waste, and one of the main methods for doing so is the gamma-ray spectrometry, which can identify and quantify high energy photon emitters. The technique chosen for the characterization of radioactive waste in the present work is the gamma-ray spectrometry with High purity Germanium (HPGe) detectors. From the energy identified in the experimental spectrum, three radioisotopes were identified in the cartridge filter: 108m Ag, 110m Ag, 60 Co. For the estimated activity of the filter, the calibration in efficiency was made utilizing the MCNP4C code of the Monte Carlo method. Such method was chosen because there is no standard source available in the same geometry of the cartridge filter, therefore a simulation had to be developed in order to reach a calibration equation, necessary to estimate the activity of the radioactive waste. The results presented an activity value in the order of MBq for all radioisotopes. (authors)

Characterization of cartridge filters from the IEA-R1 Nuclear Reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

2015-07-01

The management of radioactive waste ensures safety to human health and the environment nowadays and for the future, without overwhelming the upcoming generations. The primary characterization of radioactive waste is one of the main steps in the management of radioactive waste. This step permits to choose the best treatment for the radioactive waste before forwarding it to its final disposal. The aim of the present work is the primary characterization of cartridge filters from the IEA-R1 nuclear reactor utilizing gamma-ray spectrometry, and the method of Monte Carlo for calibration. The IEA-R1 is located in the Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN - CNEN) in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Cartridge filters are used for purification of the cooling water that is pumped through the core of the pool type nuclear research reactors. Once worn out, these filters are replaced and then become radioactive waste. Determination of the radioactive inventory is of paramount importance in the management of such radioactive waste, and one of the main methods for doing so is the gamma-ray spectrometry, which can identify and quantify high energy photon emitters. The technique chosen for the characterization of radioactive waste in the present work is the gamma-ray spectrometry with High purity Germanium (HPGe) detectors. From the energy identified in the experimental spectrum, three radioisotopes were identified in the cartridge filter: {sup 108m}Ag, {sup 110m}Ag, {sup 60}Co. For the estimated activity of the filter, the calibration in efficiency was made utilizing the MCNP4C code of the Monte Carlo method. Such method was chosen because there is no standard source available in the same geometry of the cartridge filter, therefore a simulation had to be developed in order to reach a calibration equation, necessary to estimate the activity of the radioactive waste. The results presented an activity value in the order of MBq for all radioisotopes. (authors)

Data acquisition and signal processing system for IPR R1 TRIGA-Mark I nuclear research reactor of CDTN

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mesquita, A.Z.; Maretti, F. Jr.; Rezende, H.C.; Tambourgi, E.B.

2004-01-01

The TRIGA IPR-R1 Nuclear Research Reactor, located at the Nuclear Technology Development Center (CDTN/CNEN) in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, is being operated since 44 years ago. The main operational parameters were monitored by analog recorders and counters located in the reactor control console. The reactor operators registered the most important operational parameters and data in the reactor logbook. This process is quite useful, but it can involve some human errors. It is also impossible for the operators to take notes of all variables involving the process mainly during fast power transients in some operations. A PC-based data acquisition was developed for the reactor that allows online monitoring, through graphic interfaces, and shows operational parameters evolution to the operators. Some parameters that were not measured, like the power and the coolant flow rate at the primary loop, are monitored now in the computer video monitor. The developed system allows measuring out all parameters in a frequency up to 1 kHz. These data is also recorded in text files available for consults and analysis. (author)

Neutrons characterization of the nuclear reactor Ian-R1 of Colombia

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gonzalez P, L. X.; Martinez O, S. A.; Vega C, H. R.

2014-08-01

By means of Monte Carlo methods, with the code MCNPX, the neutron characteristics of the research nuclear reactor Ian-R1 of Colombia, in power off but with the neutrons source in their start position, have been valued. The neutrons spectra, the total flow and their average power were calculated in the irradiation spaces inside the graphite reflector, as well as in the cells with air. Also the spectra, the total flow and the absorbed dose were calculated in several places distributed along the radial shaft inside the water moderator. The neutrons total flow was also considered to the long of the axial shaft. The characteristics of the neutrons spectra vary depending on their position regarding the source and the material that surrounds to the cell where the calculation was made. (Author)

Feasibility studies of producing 99 Mo by capture in the IEA-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Concilio, Roberta; Mendonca, Arlindo Gilson; Maiorino, Jose Rubens

1998-01-01

Everyday the production of 99 Mo for 99m Tc generators, becomes more necessary, whose properties are ideal for medical diagnosis. This works presents a description and an analysis of the production of 99 Mo by radioactive capture at 98 Mo using the research reactor IEA-R1 in 5 MW and operating 5 days a week, referring to the use of targets, separation methods, total and specific activity attained and its limitations. (author)

Qualification of JEFF3.1.1 library for high conversion reactor calculations using the ERASME/R experiment

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vidal, J. F.; Noguere, G.; Peneliau, Y.; Santamarina, A. [CEA, DEN, DER/SPRC/LEPh, Cadarache, F-13108 Saint-Paul-lez-Durance (France)

2012-07-01

With its low CO{sub 2} production, Nuclear Energy appears to be an efficient solution to the global warming due to green-house effect. However, current LWR reactors are poor uranium users and, pending the development of Fast Neutron Reactors, alternative concepts of PWR with higher conversion ratio (HCPWR) are being studied again at CEA, first studies dating from the middle 80's. In these French designs, low moderation ratio has been performed by tightening the lattice pitch, achieving a conversion ratio of 0.8-0.9 with a MOX fuel coming from PWR UOX recycling. Theses HCPWRs are characterized by a harder neutron spectrum and the calculation uncertainties on the fundamental neutronics parameters are increased by a factor 3 regarding a standard PWR lattice, due to the major contribution of the Plutonium isotopes and of the epithermal energy range to the reaction rates. In order to reduce these uncertainties, a 3-year experimental validation program called ERASME has been performed by CEA from 1984 to 1986 in the EOLE reactor. Monte Carlo analysis of the ERASME/R experiments with the Monte Carlo code TRIPOLI4 allowed the qualification of the recommended JEFF.3.1.1 library for major neutronics parameters. K{sub eff} of the MOX under-moderated lattice is over-predicted by 440 {+-} 830 pcm (2{sigma}); the conversion ratio, indicator of the good use of uranium, is also slightly over-predicted: 2 % {+-} 4 % (2{sigma}) and the same for B4C absorber rods worth and soluble boron worth, over-predicted by 2 %, both in the 2 standard deviations range. The radial fission maps of heterogeneities (water-holes, B4C and fertile rods) are well reproduced: maximal (C-E)/E dispersion is 1.3 %, maximal power peak error is 2.7 %. The void reactivity worth is the only parameter poorly calculated with an overprediction of +12.4% {+-} 1.5%. ERASME/R analysis of MOX reactivity, void effect and spectral indexes will contribute to the reevaluation of {sup 241}Am and Plutonium isotopes

SAVANNAH RIVER SITE R-REACTOR DISASSEMBLY BASIN IN-SITU DECOMMISSIONING -10499

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Langton, C.; Serrato, M.; Blankenship, J.; Griffin, W.

2010-01-04

The US DOE concept for facility in-situ decommissioning (ISD) is to physically stabilize and isolate intact, structurally sound facilities that are no longer needed for their original purpose, i.e., generating (reactor facilities), processing(isotope separation facilities) or storing radioactive materials. The 105-R Disassembly Basin is the first SRS reactor facility to undergo the in-situ decommissioning (ISD) process. This ISD process complies with the 105-R Disassembly Basin project strategy as outlined in the Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analysis for the Grouting of the R-Reactor Disassembly Basin at the Savannah River Site and includes: (1) Managing residual water by solidification in-place or evaporation at another facility; (2) Filling the below grade portion of the basin with cementitious materials to physically stabilize the basin and prevent collapse of the final cap - Sludge and debris in the bottom few feet of the basin will be encapsulated between the basin floor and overlying fill material to isolate it from the environment; (3) Demolishing the above grade portion of the structure and relocating the resulting debris to another location or disposing of the debris in-place; and (4) Capping the basin area with a concrete slab which is part of an engineered cap to prevent inadvertent intrusion. The estimated total grout volume to fill the 105-R Reactor Disassembly Basin is 24,384 cubic meters or 31,894 cubic yards. Portland cement-based structural fill materials were designed and tested for the reactor ISD project, and a placement strategy for stabilizing the basin was developed. Based on structural engineering analyses and material flow considerations, maximum lift heights and differential height requirements were determined. Pertinent data and information related to the SRS 105-R Reactor Disassembly Basin in-situ decommissioning include: regulatory documentation, residual water management, area preparation activities, technology needs, fill material

Considerations about decommissioning of the IEA-R1 research reactor and the future of its installations after shutdown

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Frajndlich, Roberto

2014-01-01

The IEA-R1 Nuclear Research Reactor, in operation since 1957, in the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN/SP), is one of the oldest research reactors in the world. However at some point in time in the future, as example of the other reactors, it will be shutdown definitively. Before that time actually arrives, the operational organization needs to plan the future of its installations and define the final destination of equipment and radioactive as well as non-radioactive material contained inside the installations. These and other questions should be addressed in the so called Preliminary decommissioning plan of the installation, which is the subject of this work. The work initially presents an over view about the theme and defines the general and specific objectives describing, in succession, the directions that the operating organization should consider for the formulation of a decommissioning plan. The present structure of the Brazilian nuclear sector emphasizing principally the norms utilized in the management of radioactive waste is also presented. A description of principle equipment of the IEA-R1 reactor which constitutes its inventory of radioactive and non-radioactive material is given. The work emphasizes the experience of the reactor technicians, acquired during several reforms and modifications of the reactor installations realized during its useful life time. This experience may be of great help for the decommissioning in the future. An experiment using the high resolution gamma spectrometric method and computer calculation using Monte Carlo theory were performed with the objective of obtaining an estimate of the radioactive waste produced from dismantling of the reactor pool walls. The cost of reactor decommissioning for different choices of strategies was determined using the CERREX code. Finally, a discussion about different strategies is presented. On the basis of these discussions it is concluded that the most advantageous

Evaluation of the physical protection system of the IEA-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vaz, Antonio C.A.; Conti, Thadeu das N.

2013-01-01

The '09/11' in New York and the accident at the Fukushima power plant are two events that served as worldwide reference to review some aspects of the Physical Protection System (PPS) in nuclear areas. The nuclear research reactor IEA-R1 has followed this new world order and improved the protection systems that are directly related to detection (CCTV, sensors, alarms, etc), delay (turnstile, gates, barriers, etc) and response (communication systems, response force, etc), for operation against malicious act, seeking always to avoid or minimize any possibility of threat, theft and sabotage. These actions were performed to prevent and to mitigate the consequence on the environment, economy and society from damages caused by natural hazard, as well. This study evaluates the PPS of the IEA-R1 regarding the weaknesses, strengths,and impacts of the changes resulting from the system implanted. The analyses were based on methodology developed by security experts from SANDIA National Laboratories in Texas - U.S.A, allowing the evaluation of the system through probabilistic and hypothetical analysis. (author)

Evaluation of the physical protection system of the IEA-R1 research reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vaz, Antonio C.A.; Conti, Thadeu das N., E-mail: acavaz@ipen.br, E-mail: tnconti@yahoo.com.br [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2013-07-01

The '09/11' in New York and the accident at the Fukushima power plant are two events that served as worldwide reference to review some aspects of the Physical Protection System (PPS) in nuclear areas. The nuclear research reactor IEA-R1 has followed this new world order and improved the protection systems that are directly related to detection (CCTV, sensors, alarms, etc), delay (turnstile, gates, barriers, etc) and response (communication systems, response force, etc), for operation against malicious act, seeking always to avoid or minimize any possibility of threat, theft and sabotage. These actions were performed to prevent and to mitigate the consequence on the environment, economy and society from damages caused by natural hazard, as well. This study evaluates the PPS of the IEA-R1 regarding the weaknesses, strengths,and impacts of the changes resulting from the system implanted. The analyses were based on methodology developed by security experts from SANDIA National Laboratories in Texas - U.S.A, allowing the evaluation of the system through probabilistic and hypothetical analysis. (author)

Application of safety checklist to the analysis of the IEA-R1 reactor water retreatment system; Utilizacao do checklist de seguranca na analise do sistema de retratamento de agua do reator IEA-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sauer, Maria Eugenia Lago Jacques; Sara Neto, Antonio Jorge; Lima, Toni Carlos Caboclo de; Ribeiro, Maria Alice Morato [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)]. E-mail: melsauer@ipen.br

2005-07-01

In 1999, the management of the IEA-R1 Research Reactor (pool type - 5 MWth), located at IPEN/CNEN-SP, started the evaluation of the Reactor Pool Water Retreatment System to identify operational aspects, which could compromise the operators safety. The purpose was to identify and propose enhancements to the system which would be installed to substitute for the existing one. This process was conducted through a qualitative study of the system in operation. This study was carried out by a team composed of specialists in reactor operation, systems maintenance and radiological protection, and one safety analyst. The study consisted, basically, in local inspections to verify the physical and operational conditions of each equipment / component as well as aspects related to maintenance activities of the system. The process control and the operator procedures associated with the retreatment of the reactor pool water were also reviewed. The methodology adopted to develop the study was based in process hazard analysis technique named Safety Checklist. This paper presents a summary of this study and the main results obtained. Some operational and safety problems identified, the prevention and/or correction means to avoid them, and the recommendations and suggestions that have been implemented to the new design of the IEA-R1 Reactor Water Retreatment System, whose installation was concluded in 2003, are also presented. (author)

Preliminary analysis of control rod accidents in the CRCN-R1 multipurpose reactor core of Recife in Brazil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Souza dos Santos, Rubens; Rubens Maiorino, Jose

1999-01-01

The paper shows some results of the neutronic accident analyses arisen by uncontrolled control rod withdrawal, based on the Conceptual Project of the CRCN-R1 MultiPurpose Reactor of Recife. In that reactor, a project of the CNEN/Brazil, under the leadership of the IPEN/Sao Paulo, is verified the thermal hydraulic limits in the reactor core during transients that simulate startup and power operation accidents. It has utilized a computer program that solved the kinetic equations based on multigroup diffusion theory, in our case we have used 4 energy groups, Two-Dimensional X-Y in the space, and 6 groups of delayed neutrons. A simple model of feedback is admitted in the capture and scattering macroscopic cross sections, in the fuel regions, temperature and coolant densities dependents. Based on those models, the results demonstrated that the reactor exhibits good degree of safety. (author)

Design of a digital system for operational parameters simulation of IPR-R1 TRIGA nuclear research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lage, Aldo M.F.; Mesquita, Amir Z.; Felippe, Adriano de A.M.

2017-01-01

The instrumentation of nuclear reactors is designed based on the reliability, redundancy and diversification of control systems. The monitoring of the parameters is of crucial importance with regard to the operational efficiency and safety of the installation. Since the first criticality of a nuclear reactor, achieved by Fermi et al. in 1942, there has been concern about the reliable monitoring of the parameters involved in the chain reaction. This paper presents the current stage of the system of simulation, which is under development at the CDTN, which intends to simulate the operation of the TRIGA IPR-R1 nuclear reactor, involving the evolution of neutron flux and reactor power related events. The system will be developed using LabVIEW® software, using the modern concept of virtual instruments (VIs) that are visualized in a video monitor. For the implementation of this model, computational tools and systems analysis are necessary, which help and facilitate the implementation of the simulator. In this article we will show some of these techniques and the initial design of the model to be implemented. The design of a computational system is of great importance, since it guides in the implementation stages and generates the documentation for later maintenance and updating of the computational system. It is noteworthy that the innovations developed in research reactors are normally used in power reactors. The relatively low costs enable research reactors to be an excellent laboratory for developing techniques for future reactors. (author)

Design of a digital system for operational parameters simulation of IPR-R1 TRIGA nuclear research reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lage, Aldo M.F.; Mesquita, Amir Z.; Felippe, Adriano de A.M., E-mail: aldo@cdtn.br, E-mail: amir@cdtn.br, E-mail: adrianoamfelippe@gmail.com [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN /CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil); Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2017-11-01

The instrumentation of nuclear reactors is designed based on the reliability, redundancy and diversification of control systems. The monitoring of the parameters is of crucial importance with regard to the operational efficiency and safety of the installation. Since the first criticality of a nuclear reactor, achieved by Fermi et al. in 1942, there has been concern about the reliable monitoring of the parameters involved in the chain reaction. This paper presents the current stage of the system of simulation, which is under development at the CDTN, which intends to simulate the operation of the TRIGA IPR-R1 nuclear reactor, involving the evolution of neutron flux and reactor power related events. The system will be developed using LabVIEW® software, using the modern concept of virtual instruments (VIs) that are visualized in a video monitor. For the implementation of this model, computational tools and systems analysis are necessary, which help and facilitate the implementation of the simulator. In this article we will show some of these techniques and the initial design of the model to be implemented. The design of a computational system is of great importance, since it guides in the implementation stages and generates the documentation for later maintenance and updating of the computational system. It is noteworthy that the innovations developed in research reactors are normally used in power reactors. The relatively low costs enable research reactors to be an excellent laboratory for developing techniques for future reactors. (author)

Doping of monocrystalline silicon with phosphorus by means of neutron irradiation at the IEA-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Carbonari, A.W.; Puget, M.A.C.

1990-11-01

The first neutron irradiation experiments with monocrystal silicon in the IEA-R1 research reactor of IPEN are related. The silicon is irradiated with phosphorus producing a N type semiconductor with a very small resistivity variation throughout the crystal volume. The neutrons induce nuclear reactions in Si-30 isotope and these atoms are then transformed in to phosphorous atoms. This process is known as Neutron Transmutation Doping. In order to irradiate the silicon crystals in the reactor, a specific device has been constructed, and it permits the irradiation of up to 2.5'' diameter monocrystals. (author)

Dose measurements in controlled area of TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alvarenga, F.L.; Junior, F.M.

2005-01-01

The workers doses in exposure areas to the radiation are so important for a Radioprotection Quality Program, as well as to guarantee the workers safety. For that it is necessary to raise the doses in the radiation areas, to obtain the accumulated dose in certain procedures for detailed studies. Several risings were accomplished to obtain the radiation levels in the areas where the workers are exposed due the operation of a research nuclear reactor and in the radioisotopes manipulation laboratories of a nuclear institute. The radiation levels and doses can be observed through graphs in the dependences of the Controlled Area 1 (AC-1) and the Reactor Laboratory. Those limits are in according of the CNEN-NE-3.01 work limits rules. The conclusion of the work allowed to demonstrate that the Laboratory of the Reactor and AC-1, have booth an effective radiological program with efficient operational practices that contributes with low doses to the workers

Real-Time Monitoring of Neutron Capture Cross Section in the IPR-R1 TRIGA Research Reactor as a Fuel Temperature Function

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Palma, D.A.P. [Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear, CNEN, General Severiano Street, 90, 22290-901, Rio de Janeiro (Brazil); Mesquita, A.Z.; Souza, R.M.G.P. [Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear, CNEN/CDTN, Av. Presidente Antonio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte (Brazil); Martinez, A.S. [Programa de Engenharia Nuclear, COPPE/UFRJ, Av. Horacio Macedo, 2030, Bloco G, 21941- 914, Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

2011-07-01

Nuclear reactor operators have to monitor the behaviour of different nuclear and design parameters that vary in time to ensure the operating safety of the reactor. In recent years several operating parameters for the IPR-R1 TRIGA research reactor were monitored and indicated in real-time by the data acquisition system developed for the reactor, with all the data being stored in a hard disk in the data acquisition computer, to build in this way a database. The goal of this work is to insert in the set of parameters already collected the neutron capture cross sections for the fuel, from the power and temperature numbers obtained in real-time. The experimental data was obtained by using a fuel element instrumented with temperature sensors, located in the core of the IPR-R1 TRIGA research reactor at the CDTN - Centre for Development of Nuclear. This information is useful for the continuous monitoring of the reaction rate in neutron capture. For that, a new analytical formulation is used for the Doppler broadening function proposed by Palma and Martinez which is free from special functions in its functional form and with easy computing implementation. The results obtained were satisfactory from the standpoint of accuracy in comparison with the numerical reference method and indicate that it is possible to carry out real-time monitoring of the neutron capture cross section in the fuel. (author)

Lead-based Fast Reactor Development Plan and R&D Status in China

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wu Yican

2013-01-01

• Lead-based fast reactors have good potential for waste transmutation, fuel breeding and energy production, which has been selected by CAS as the advanced reactor development emphasis with the support of ADS program and MFE program. Sharing of technologies R&D is possible among GIF/ADS/Fusion. • The concepts and test strategy of series China lead-based fast reactors (CLEAR) have been developed. The preliminary engineering design and safety analysis of CLEAR-I are underway. • Technology R&D on CLEAR with series lead alloy loops and accelerator-based neutron generator have been constructed or under construction. • CLEAR series reactor design and construction have big challenges, widely international cooperation on reactor design and technology R&D is welcome

Characterization of filters cartridges from the water polishing system of IEA-R1 reactor: radiometric methods

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tessaro, Ana Paula G.; Vicente, Roberto

2015-01-01

The acceptance of radioactive waste in a repository depends primarily on knowledge of the radioisotopic inventory of the material, according to regulations established by regulatory agencies. The primary characterization is also a fundamental action to determine further steps in the management of the radioactive wastes. The aim of this work is to report the development of non-destructive methods for primary characterization of filters cartridges discarded as radioactive waste. The filters cartridges are used in the water polishing system of the IEA-R1 reactor retaining the particles in suspension in the reactor cooling water. The IEA-R1 is a pool type reactor with a thermal power of 5 MW, moderated and cooled with light water. It is located in the Energy and Nuclear Research Institute (IPEN-CNEN), in São Paulo, Brazil. The cartridge filters become radioactive waste when they are saturated and do not meet the required flow for the proper operation of the water polishing system. The activities of gamma emitters present in the filters are determined using gamma spectrometry, dose rate measurements and the Point Kernel Method to correlate results from both measurements. For the primary characterization, one alternative method is the radiochemical analysis of slices taken from each filter, what presents the disadvantage of higher exposures personnel and contamination risks. Another alternative method is the calibration of the measurement geometry of a gamma spectrometer, which requires the production of a standard filter. Both methods are necessary but can not be used in operational routine of radioactive waste management owing to cost and complexity. The method described can be used to determine routinely the radioactive inventory of these filters and other radioactive wastes, avoiding the necessity of destructive radiochemical analysis, or the necessity of calibrating the geometry of measurement. (author)

The past and the future in the forty years of the IPR-R1 TRIGA MARK I reactor operation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maretti Junior, Fausto

2008-01-01

Full text: The nuclear IPR-R1 TRIGA Mark I Reactor operating in the Nuclear Technology Development Center, originally Institute for Radioactive Research in Minas Gerais, Brazil, was dedicated in November 11, 1960. Initially operating for the production of radioisotopes for different uses, it started later to be used in large scale for neutron activation analysis and training of operators for nuclear power plants. Many improvements have been made throughout these years to provide a better performance in its operation and safety conditions. A new cooling system to operate until 300 kW, a new control rod mechanism, an aluminum tank for the reactor pool, an optimization in the pneumatic system, a new reactor control console and a general remodeling of the reactor laboratory were some of the improvements added. During these years a lot of irradiations, analysis , MSc and PhD thesis, training courses and isotopes production take place at the reactor. This paper describes the improvements made, the results obtained during the past 40 years, type of works realized, isotopes produced, the neutron activation analysis and the precautions taken to ensure future safe operation of the reactor to give operators better conditions of safe work. (authors)

Obtaining of total and thermal neutron flux in the carousel facility of the TRIGA MARK IPR-R1 reactor using the Monte Carlo transport method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Guerra, Bruno Teixeira

2011-01-01

The IPR-R1 is a reactor type TRIGA, Mark-I model, manufactured by the General Atomic Company and installed at Nuclear Technology Development Centre (CDTN) of Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN), in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. It is a light water moderated and cooled, graphite-reflected, open-pool type research reactor. IPR-R1 works at 100 kW but it will be briefly licensed to operate at 250 kW. It presents low power, low pressure, for application in research, training and radioisotopes production. The fuel is an alloy of zirconium hydride and uranium enriched at 20% in 235 U. The goal this work is modelling of the IPR-R1 Research Reactor TRIGA using the codes MCNPX2.6.0 (Monte Carlo N-Particle Transport extend) and MCNP5 to the calculating the neutron flux in the carousel facility. In each simulation the sample was placed in a different position, totaling forty positions around of the reactor core. The comparison between the results obtained with experimental values from other work showing a relatively good agreement. Moreover, this methodology is a theoretical tool in validating of the experimental values and necessary for determining neutron flux which can not be accessible experimentally. (author)

Nondestructive inspection of the tubes of TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor heat exchanger by eddy current testing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Silva Junior, Silverio F.; Silva, Roger F.; Oliveira, Paulo F.; Barreto, Erika S.; Ribeiro, Isabela G.; Fraiz, Felipe C.

2013-01-01

The IPR-R1 TRIGA MARK 1 reactor is an open pool type reactor, cooled light water. It is used for research activities, personnel training and radioisotopes production, in operation since 1960 at the Nuclear Technology Development Center - CDTN/CNEN. It operates at a maximum thermal power of 100 kW and usually, the fuel cooling is done by natural circulation. If necessary, an external auxiliary cooling system, with a shell-and-tube type heat exchanger, can be used to improve the water heat removal. As part of the ageing management program of the reactor, a nondestructive evaluation of their heat exchanger stainless steel tubes will be performed, in order to verify its integrity. The examinations will be performed using the eddy current test method, which allows the detection and characterization of structural discontinuities in the wall of the tubes, if existing. For this purpose, probes and reference standards were designed and manufactured at CDTN facilities and test procedures were established and validated. In this paper, a description of the proposed infrastructure as well as the test methodology to be used in the examinations are presented and discussed. (author)

Application of TEMPPC code to the IEA-R1 nuclear reactor core hydrothermal calculations operating at 2 MW for determining the minimal coolant flow

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Frajndlich, R.; Sousa, J.A. de.

1985-01-01

A thermohydraulic study of the IEA-R1 nuclear reactor core on steady-state operating condition and forced convection, is presented. The objective of this calculation is to obtain the minimal flow rate of coolant necessary at the reactor core, limited by the temperature associated to the beginning of nucleate boiling over the fuel plates at a normal operating power (2MW) for a certain inlet coolant temperature. The coolant system safety level is also calculated in this paper, which is divided in three steps: thermohydraulic calculation, without using the uncertainty factors and, after that, considering these factor by two methods: the statistical and the conventional ones. Whichever the method accepted, the results obtained by the program TEMPPC show a great safety margin with respect to the termohydraulic parameters from the IEA-R1 nuclear reactor. (Author) [pt

Hazard and operability study (Haz Op) of the 2 MW IEA-R1 reactor startup procedures

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sauer, Maria E.L.J.; Correa, Francisco; Sara Neto, Antonio J.; Costa, Carlos A.R. da; Santos, Cilas C. dos; Cardenas, Jose P.N.; Berretta, Jose R.; Neves Conti, Thadeu das

1997-01-01

This work presents the Hazard and Operability Study (Haz Op) applied to startup procedures of the 2 MW IEA-R1 research reactor, at IPEN/CNEN-S P. The Haz Op was developed by reviewing the procedures of the installation startup, in order to identify hazards and/or operational problems caused by deviations in the execution of these routines. This paper summarizes this study. describing some potential problems of relevant importance to safety as well as preventives and/or correctives measures to avoid their occurrence. Besides, an benefits evaluation and the technique limitations is made. (author). 5 refs., 1 tab

Study and project of the new rack with boron for storage of fuel elements burned in the IEA-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rodrigues, Antonio Carlos Iglesias; Madi Filho, Tufic; Silva, Davilson Gomes da

2017-01-01

The IEA-R1 research reactor works 40h weekly with 4.5 Mw power. The storage rack for spent fuel elements has less than half of its initial capacity. Under these conditions (current conditions of reactor operation 32h weekly will have 3 spend fuel by year, then, approximately 3 utilization rate Positions/year). Thus, we will have only about six years of capacity for storage. Whereas the desired service life of the IEA-R1 is at least another 20 years, it will be necessary to increase the storage capacity of spent fuel. Hence, it is necessary to double the wet storage capacity (storage in the IEA-R1 reactor's pool). After reviewing the literature about materials available for use in the construction of the new storage rack with absorber of neutrons, the BoralcanTM (manufactured by 3TMhis) was chosen due to its properties. This work presents studies: (a) for the construction of new storages racks with double of the current capacity using the same place of current storages racks and (b) criticality analysis using the MCNP-5 code. Two American Nuclear Data Library were used: ENDF / B-VI and ENDF / B-VII, and the results obtained for each data bases were compared. These analyzes confirm the possibility of doubling the storage capacity of fuel elements burned in the same place occupied by the current storage rack attending to the IEA-R1 reactor needs and attending the safety requirements according to the National Nuclear Energy Commission - CNEN and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). To calculate the k eff were considered new fuel elements (maximum possible reactivity) used in full charge of the storage rack. With the results obtained in the simulation we can conclude that doubling the amount of racks for spent fuel elements are complied with safety limits established in the IAEA standards and CNEN of criticality (keff < 0.95). (author)

Study and project of the new rack with boron for storage of fuel elements burned in the IEA-R1 research reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rodrigues, Antonio Carlos Iglesias; Madi Filho, Tufic; Silva, Davilson Gomes da, E-mail: acirodri@ipen.br, E-mail: tmfilho@usp.br, E-mail: dgsilva@ipen.br [Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), São Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2017-07-01

The IEA-R1 research reactor works 40h weekly with 4.5 Mw power. The storage rack for spent fuel elements has less than half of its initial capacity. Under these conditions (current conditions of reactor operation 32h weekly will have 3 spend fuel by year, then, approximately 3 utilization rate Positions/year). Thus, we will have only about six years of capacity for storage. Whereas the desired service life of the IEA-R1 is at least another 20 years, it will be necessary to increase the storage capacity of spent fuel. Hence, it is necessary to double the wet storage capacity (storage in the IEA-R1 reactor's pool). After reviewing the literature about materials available for use in the construction of the new storage rack with absorber of neutrons, the BoralcanTM (manufactured by 3TMhis) was chosen due to its properties. This work presents studies: (a) for the construction of new storages racks with double of the current capacity using the same place of current storages racks and (b) criticality analysis using the MCNP-5 code. Two American Nuclear Data Library were used: ENDF / B-VI and ENDF / B-VII, and the results obtained for each data bases were compared. These analyzes confirm the possibility of doubling the storage capacity of fuel elements burned in the same place occupied by the current storage rack attending to the IEA-R1 reactor needs and attending the safety requirements according to the National Nuclear Energy Commission - CNEN and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). To calculate the k{sub eff} were considered new fuel elements (maximum possible reactivity) used in full charge of the storage rack. With the results obtained in the simulation we can conclude that doubling the amount of racks for spent fuel elements are complied with safety limits established in the IAEA standards and CNEN of criticality (keff < 0.95). (author)

R and D directions for the development of CANDU reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Torgerson, D.F.

1998-01-01

Full text: AECL is carrying out a comprehensive R and D programme to advance all aspects of CANDU reactor technology. These programs are focusing on three main strategic directions: improved economics, enhanced safety, and fuel cycle flexibility. R and D areas include fuel cycle development, heavy water technology, fuel channel development, safety technology, control and instrumentation, reactor chemistry, systems and components, and health and environment. In each case, the R and D programs have short, medium, and long-term goals to achieve the overall strategic directions. Most of the programs seek to further develop and exploit some of the unique characteristics of pressurized heavy water reactors. Examples of this include high neutron economy and on-power fueling which allow several different fuel cycles, the presence of large water heat sinks for enhanced safety, and modular components that can be easily replaced for plant life extension. This presentation reviews AECL's product development directions and the R and D programs that have been begun for their development

Measurement of thermal, epithermal and fast neutrons fluxes by the activation foil method at IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dias, M.S.; Koskinas, M.F.; Berretta, J.R.; Fratin, L.; Botelho, S.

1990-01-01

The thermal, epithermal and fast neutron fluxes have been determined experimentally by the activation foil method at position GI, located near the IEA-R1 reactor core. The reactions used were 197 Au (n,gamma) 198 Au, for thermal and epithermal neutrons and 27 Na (n,alpha) 24 Na, for fast neutrons. The activities were measured by the 4π(PC)β-γ coincidence method. (author)

How the nuclear safety team conducts emergency exercises at the IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vaz, Antonio C.A.; Silva, Davilson G.; Toyoda, Eduardo Y.; Santia, Paulo S.; Conti, Thadeu N.; Semmler, Renato; Carvalho, Ricardo N.

2015-01-01

This work introduces the Diagram of Emergency Exercise Coordination designed by the Nuclear Safety Team for better Emergency Exercise coordination. The Nuclear Safety Team was created with the mission of avoiding, preventing and mitigating the causes and effects of accidents at the IEA-R1. The facility where we conduct our work is located in an area of a huge population, what increases the responsibility of our mission: conducting exercises and training are part of our daily activities. During the Emergency Exercise, accidents ranked 0-4 on INES (International Nuclear Events Scale) are simulated and involve: Police Department, Fire Department, workers, people from the community, and others. In the last exercise held in June 2014, the scenario contemplated a terrorist organization action that infiltrated in a group of students who were visiting the IEA-R1, tried to steal fresh fuel element to fabricate a dirty bomb. Emergency procedures and plans, timeline and metrics of the actions were applied to the Emergency Exercise evaluation. The next exercise will be held in November, with the simulation of the piping of the primary cooling circuit rupture, causing the emptying of the pool and the lack of cooling of the fuel elements in the reactor core: this will be the scenario. The skills acquired and the systems improvement have been very important tools for the reactor operation safety and the Nuclear Safety Team is making technical efforts so that these Emergency Exercises may be applied to other nuclear and radiological facilities. Equally important for the process of improving nuclear safety is the emphasis placed on implementing quality improvements to the human factor in the nuclear safety area, a crucial element that is often not considered by those outside the nuclear sector. Surely, the Diagram of Emergency Exercise Coordination application will improve and facilitate the organization, coordination and evaluation tasks. (author)

How the nuclear safety team conducts emergency exercises at the IEA-R1 reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vaz, Antonio C.A.; Silva, Davilson G.; Toyoda, Eduardo Y.; Santia, Paulo S.; Conti, Thadeu N.; Semmler, Renato; Carvalho, Ricardo N., E-mail: acavaz@ipen.br, E-mail: dgsilva@ipen.br, E-mail: eytoyoda@ipen.br, E-mail: psantia@ipen.br, E-mail: tnconti@ipen.br, E-mail: rsemmler@ipen.b, E-mail: rncarval@ipen.br [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2015-07-01

This work introduces the Diagram of Emergency Exercise Coordination designed by the Nuclear Safety Team for better Emergency Exercise coordination. The Nuclear Safety Team was created with the mission of avoiding, preventing and mitigating the causes and effects of accidents at the IEA-R1. The facility where we conduct our work is located in an area of a huge population, what increases the responsibility of our mission: conducting exercises and training are part of our daily activities. During the Emergency Exercise, accidents ranked 0-4 on INES (International Nuclear Events Scale) are simulated and involve: Police Department, Fire Department, workers, people from the community, and others. In the last exercise held in June 2014, the scenario contemplated a terrorist organization action that infiltrated in a group of students who were visiting the IEA-R1, tried to steal fresh fuel element to fabricate a dirty bomb. Emergency procedures and plans, timeline and metrics of the actions were applied to the Emergency Exercise evaluation. The next exercise will be held in November, with the simulation of the piping of the primary cooling circuit rupture, causing the emptying of the pool and the lack of cooling of the fuel elements in the reactor core: this will be the scenario. The skills acquired and the systems improvement have been very important tools for the reactor operation safety and the Nuclear Safety Team is making technical efforts so that these Emergency Exercises may be applied to other nuclear and radiological facilities. Equally important for the process of improving nuclear safety is the emphasis placed on implementing quality improvements to the human factor in the nuclear safety area, a crucial element that is often not considered by those outside the nuclear sector. Surely, the Diagram of Emergency Exercise Coordination application will improve and facilitate the organization, coordination and evaluation tasks. (author)

Impact of uranium concentration reduction in side plates of the fuel elements of IEA-R1 reactor on neutronic and thermal hydraulic analyses

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rios, Ilka Antonia

2013-01-01

This master thesis presents a study to verify the impact of the uranium concentration reduction in the side plates of the reactor IEA-R1 fuel elements on the neutronic and thermal-hydraulic analyses. To develop such study, a previous IPEN-CNEN/SP research was reproduced by simulating the fuel elements burn-up, with side plate uranium density reduced to 50, 60 and 70% of the standard fuel element plates. This research begins with the neutronic analysis using the computer code HAMMER and the first step consists in the calculation of the cross section of all materials presented at the reactor core, with their initial concentration; the second step consists in the calculation of the fast and thermal neutron group fluxes and power densities for fuel elements using the computer code CITATION. HAMMER output data is used as input data. Once the neutronic analysis is finished and the most critical fuel elements with highest power density have been defined, the thermal-hydraulics analysis begins. This analysis uses MCTR-IEA-R1 thermal-hydraulics model, which equations are solved by commercial code EES. Thermalhydraulics analysis input is the power density data calculated by CITATION: it is considered the highest power density on each fuel element, where there is a higher energy release and, consequently, higher temperatures. This data is used on energy balance equations to calculate temperatures on critical fuel element regions. Reactor operation comparison for three different uranium densities on fuel side plates is presented. Uranium density reduction contributes to the cladding surface temperature to remain below the established limit, as reactor operation safety requirement and it does not affect significantly fuel element final burn-up nor reactor reactivity. The reduction of uranium in the side plates of the fuel elements of the IEA-R1 showed to be a viable option to avoid corrosion problems due to high temperatures. (author)

Measurement of thermal, epithermal and fast neutron flux in the IEA-R1 reactor by the foil activation method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Koskinas, M.F.

1979-01-01

Experimental and theoretical details of the foil activation method applied to neutrons flux measurements at the IEA-R1 reactor are presented. The thermal - and epithermal - neutron flux were determined form activation measurements of gold, cobalt and manganese foils; and for the fast neutron flux determination, aluminum, iron and nickel foils were used. The measurements of the activity induced in the metal foils were performed using a Ge-Li gamma spectrometry system. In each energy range of the reactor neutron spectrum, the agreement among the experimental flux values obtained using the three kind of materials, indicates the consistency of the theoretical approach and of the nuclear parameters selected. (Author) [pt

Neutron activation analysis at CDTN/CNEN using the IPR-R1 Triga Mark I reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Menezes, Maria Angela de B.C.; Maretti Junior, Fausto; Kastner, Geraldo Frederico; Amaral, Angela Maria; Souza, Wagner de

2009-01-01

This paper describes in summary the activities developed by the Laboratory for Neutron Activation Analysis since the starting up of the IPR-R1 TRIGA Mark I research reactor in 1960. This Laboratory is located at Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (Nuclear Technology Development Centre) / Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear (Brazilian Commission for Nuclear Energy), CDTN/CNEN. The activities of the Laboratory comprise the delayed fission neutron activation analysis, instrumental (comparative and parametric methods) and radiochemical / chemical methods. These methods are responsible for significant percentage of CDTN's analytical demand, meeting the clients' analytical needs and researches developed by the Laboratory, by CDTN and by other institutions. Over the years the work has been linked to the goals of the country and the institutions. Nowadays the neutron activation analysis is responsible for 70% of the analytical demand and the k 0 - Instrumental method for 80% of this demand answering clients' request and researches. In Brazil, CDTN is the only Institute that fully masters the Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis k 0 -method using its own nuclear reactor. (author)

The molten salt reactor: R and D status and perspectives in Europe

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Renault, Claude; Delpech, Sylvie; Merle-Lucotte, Elsa; Konings, Rudy; Hron, Miloslav; Ignatiev, Victor

2010-01-01

The paper concentrates on molten salt fast reactor (MSFR) concepts which are receiving most attention in the EU context. It shows the main R and D achievements and some remaining issues to be addressed in such essential areas as (a) reactor conceptual design, (b) molten salt properties, (c) fuel salt clean-up scheme and (d) high temperature materials. The status and perspectives of molten salt reactor R and D efforts in Europe are then discussed

Development of a computational program to planning and control of the IEA-R1 reactor maintenance

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Martins, Mauro Onofre; Madi Filho, Tufic

2013-01-01

Maintenance is an essential activity in nuclear reactors. The components of safety systems of an industrial plant should have a low probability of failure, especially if there is a high risk of accidents that may cause environmental damage. In nuclear facilities, the presence of security systems is a technical specification and a requirement for their license and operation. In order to manage the entire information flow from the maintenance of the IEA-R1, a computational program (software) was developed, which not only plans and control all the maintenance, but also updates the documents and records to safeguard the quality, ensuring the safe operation of the reactor. The software has access levels and provides detailed reports of all maintenance planned and implemented, together with an individual history of the equipment during its lifetime in the facility. This work presents all the stages of the software development, description, compatibility, application, advantages and results obtained experimentally. (author)

The neutron and gamma-ray dose characterization using the Monte Carlo method to study the feasibility of the Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis technique at IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor in Brazil

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Guerra, Bruno T.; Soares, Alexandre L.; Grynberg, Suely E.; Menezes, Maria Angela B.C., E-mail: brunoteixeiraguerra@yahoo.com.br, E-mail: menezes@cdtn.br, E-mail: asleal@cdtn.br, E-mail: seg@cdtn.br [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2013-07-01

The IPR-R1 is a reactor type TRIGA, Mark-I model, manufactured by the General Atomic Company and installed at Nuclear Technology Development Centre (CDTN) of Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN), in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. It is a light water moderated and cooled, graphite-reflected, open-pool type research reactor. IPR-R1 works at 100 kW but it will be briefly licensed to operate at 250 kW. It presents low power, low pressure, for application in research, training and radioisotopes production. The fuel is an alloy of zirconium hydride and uranium enriched at 20% in {sup 235}U. The Implementation of the PGNAA (Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis) Technical at the TRIGA IPR-R1 research reactor of the CDTN will significantly increase in the types of matrices analyzable. A project is underway in order to implement this technique in CDTN. In order of verified the feasibility of the PGNAA at the TRIGA reactor, the MCNP (Monte Carlo N-Particle) method is used to theoretical calculations. This paper presents the results of a preliminary study of the neutron and gamma-ray dose in the room where the reactor is located, in case of implementation of this technique in the IPR-R1. (author)

The neutron and gamma-ray dose characterization using the Monte Carlo method to study the feasibility of the Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis technique at IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor in Brazil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Guerra, Bruno T.; Soares, Alexandre L.; Grynberg, Suely E.; Menezes, Maria Angela B.C.

2013-01-01

The IPR-R1 is a reactor type TRIGA, Mark-I model, manufactured by the General Atomic Company and installed at Nuclear Technology Development Centre (CDTN) of Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN), in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. It is a light water moderated and cooled, graphite-reflected, open-pool type research reactor. IPR-R1 works at 100 kW but it will be briefly licensed to operate at 250 kW. It presents low power, low pressure, for application in research, training and radioisotopes production. The fuel is an alloy of zirconium hydride and uranium enriched at 20% in 235 U. The Implementation of the PGNAA (Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis) Technical at the TRIGA IPR-R1 research reactor of the CDTN will significantly increase in the types of matrices analyzable. A project is underway in order to implement this technique in CDTN. In order of verified the feasibility of the PGNAA at the TRIGA reactor, the MCNP (Monte Carlo N-Particle) method is used to theoretical calculations. This paper presents the results of a preliminary study of the neutron and gamma-ray dose in the room where the reactor is located, in case of implementation of this technique in the IPR-R1. (author)

The evolution of doses in the IEA-R1 reactor environment and tendencies based on the current results

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Toyoda, Eduardo Yoshio

2016-01-01

The IPEN / CNEN-SP have a Nuclear Research Reactor-NRR named IEA-R1, in operation from 1957. It is an open swimming pool reactor using light water as shielding, moderator and as cooling, the volume of this pool is 273m 3 .Until 1995 the reactor operated daily at a power of 2,0 MW. From June of that year, after a few safety modifications the reactor began operating in continuous way from Monday to Wednesday without shutdown totalizing 64 hours per week and the power was increased to 4,5MW also. Because of these changes, continuous operation and increased power, workers' doses would tend to increase. In the past several studies were conducted seeking ways to reduce the workers' doses. A study was made on the possibility to introduce a shielding at the top of the reactor core with a hot water layer. Studies have shown that a major limitation for operating a reactor at high power comes from the gamma radiation emitted by the sodium-24. Other elements such as magnesium-27, aluminum-28, Argon-51, contribute considerably to the water activity of the pool. The introduction of a hot water layer on the swimming pool would form a layer of surface, stable and free of radioactive elements with a 1.5m to 2m thickness creates a shielding to radiation from radioactive elements dissolved in water. Optimization studies proved that the installation of the hot layer was not necessary for the regime and the current power reactor operation, because other procedures adopted were more effective. From this decision the Radiological Protection Reactor Team, set up a dose assessment program to ensure them remained in low values based on principles established in national and international standards. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the individual doses of OEI (Occupationally Exposed Individual), which will be checked increasing doses resulting from recent changes in reactor operation regime and suggested viable safety and protection options, in the first instance to reducing

Shadow corrosion evaluation in the Studsvik R2 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sanders, Ch.; Lysell, G.

2000-01-01

Post-irradiation examination has shown that increased corrosion occurs when zirconium alloys are in contact with or in proximity to other metallic objects. The observations indicate an influence of irradiation from the adjacent component as the enhanced corrosion occurs as a 'shadow' of the metallic object on the zirconium surface. This phenomenon could ultimately limit the lifetime of certain zirconium alloy components in the reactor. The Studsvik R2 materials test reactor has an In-Core Autoclave (INCA) test facility especially designed for water chemistry and materials research. The INCA facility has been evaluated and found suitable for shadow corrosion studies. The R2 reactor core containing the INCA facility was modeled with the Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) code in order to evaluate the electron deposition in various materials and to develop a hypothesis of the shadow corrosion mechanism. (authors)

Experience gained in refurbishing of the ET-R R-1 reactor in Egypt

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Khattab, M; Dimitri, F; Chaath, K [Reactor department, nuclear research center atomic energy authority, Cairo, (Egypt)

1995-10-01

This paper describes the in-service program and rehabilitation plan of the control, measuring instrumentation and radiation monitoring equipment as well as the computerized safety logic and signaling systems. the in-service program includes reactor core and pressure vessels. Spent fuel tank and primary cooling circuit have been inspected. Current problems and future plan for improving the safety systems are discussed. 10 figs., 1 tab.

Experience gained in refurbishing of the ET-R R-1 reactor in Egypt

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Khattab, M.; Dimitri, F.; Chaath, K.

1995-01-01

This paper describes the in-service program and rehabilitation plan of the control, measuring instrumentation and radiation monitoring equipment as well as the computerized safety logic and signaling systems. the in-service program includes reactor core and pressure vessels. Spent fuel tank and primary cooling circuit have been inspected. Current problems and future plan for improving the safety systems are discussed. 10 figs., 1 tab

Development of an artificial neural network for nuclear power monitoring and fault detection in the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bueno, Elaine Inacio; Ting, Daniel Kao Sun; Goncalves, Iraci M.P.

2005-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to develop a system to monitor the nuclear power of a reactor using Artificial Neural Networks. The database used in this work was developed using a theoretical model of IEA-R1 Research Reactor. The IEA-R1 is a pool type reactor of 5 MW, cooled and moderated by light water, and uses graphite and beryllium as reflector. To monitor the nuclear power the following variables were chosen: T3 . temperature above the reactor core, T4 . outlet core temperature, FE01 . primary loop flow rate and the nuclear power. The inputs are T3, T4 and FE01 and the output is the nuclear power. It was used several networks using the backpropagation algorithm. The conclusion is that the multiplayer perceptrons networks (MLPs), training by the backpropagation algorithm, can be used to solve this problem. The results obtained with the MLPs networks are satisfactory and the mean square error was in the order of 10 -4 during the network training and in the order of 10 -2 during the network testing. We intend to monitor the other variables of this model using the same methodology, and after this we will use the real database from the system to compare the results obtained with the model. The monitoring of the reactor variables is part of the development of a fault detection and isolation system which is underway and which is, by its turn, part of a comprehensive ageing management program. (author)

Fission track dating method: I. Study of neutron flux uniformity in some irradiation positions of IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Osorio, A.M.; Hadler, J.C.; Iunes, P.J.; Paulo, S.R. de

1993-06-01

In order to use the fission track dating method the flux gradient was verified within the sample holder, in some irradiation positions of the IEA-R1 reactor at IPEN/CNEN, Sao Paulo. The fission track dating method considers only the thermal neutron fission tracks, to subtract the other contributions sample irradiations with a cadmium cover was performed. The neutron flux cadmium influence was studied. (author)

Design of first reactor protection system prototype for C A R E M reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Azcona, A; Lorenzo, G.; Maciel, F.; Fittipaldi, A

2006-01-01

In this paper we present the design of a prototype of the C A R E M Reactor Protection System, which is implemented on a basis of the digital platform T E L E P E R M X S.The proposed architecture for the Reactor Protection System (R P S) has 4 redundant trains composed by a complete set of sensors, a data acquisition computer and a processing computer.The information from the 4 processing computers goes into to a two voting units with a two out of four (2004) logic and its outputs are combined by a final actuation logic with a voting scheme of one out of two (1002).The prototype is implemented with a unique train.The train inputs are simulated by an Automatic Testing Unit.The pre-established test case or procedure results are fed back into the A T U.The choice of the digital platform T E L E P E R M X S for the R P S implementation allows versatility in the design stage and permits the prototype expansion due to its modular characteristic and the software tools flexibility [es

Thermal, thermo-hydraulic and thermo-mechanic analysis for fuel elements of IEA-R1 reactor at 5MW

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Teixeira e Silva, A.; Silva Macedo, L.V. da

1989-01-01

In connection with the on going conversion of IEA-R1 Research Reactor, operated by IPEN-CNEN/SP, from the use of highly enriched uranium (HEU) fuel to the use of low enriched uranium (LEU) fuel, steady-state thermal and thermo-hydraulic analysis of both existing HEU and proposed LEU cores under 2 MW operating conditions have been carried out. Keeping in mind the possibility of power upgrading, steady-state thermal, thermo-hydraulic and thermomechanical analysis of proposed LEU core under 5 MW operating conditions have also been carried out. The thermal and thermo-hydraulic analysis at 2 MW show that the conversion of the existing HEU core to be proposed LEU core will not change the reactor safety margins. Although the upgrading of the reactor power to 5 MW will result in safety margins lower than in case of 2MW, these will be still sufficient for optimum operation and safe behaviour. The thermomechanical analysis at 5 MW show that the thermal stresses induced in the fuel element will satisfy the design limits for mechanical strenght and elastic stability. (author) [pt

Neutron flux of 100kW in the irradiation terminals of the IPR-R1 Triga Reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zangirolami, Dante Marco

2009-01-01

In this work, it was carried out a study of the neutron flux in the IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor irradiation facilities: rotary specimen rack (RSR), pneumatic transfer tube two (PTT2) and the central thimble (CT). The objective was to obtain the neutron flux profile on the RSR, which has forty irradiation positions, and also values for the thermal and epithermal neutron fluxes of some RSR positions and also of the PTT2 and of the CT facility. It was applied the neutron activation analysis of a reference material, Al-Au (0.1%) alloy. Irradiations were performed on 16 different dates. It was concluded that for the RSR, the average value of thermal and epithermal neutron fluxes depends on the vertical position of the reactor control rods. Neutron flux variations along the RSR form a characteristic profile, whose values depend on the location of the irradiation position in the reactor core and on the control rods vertical position. In the RSR, the obtained values of thermal and epithermal neutron flux were (8.1 +- 0.3) x 10 11 n.cm -2 .s -1 , and (3.4 +- 0.2)x10 10 n.cm -2 .s -1 , respectively. For the PTT2 and the CT, the values for the epithermal neutron flux were respectively (3.3 +- 0.2) x 10 9 n.cm -2 .s -1 and (2.6 +- 0.1) x 10 11 n.cm -2 .s -1 . For these facilities, the thermal neutron flux was estimated, and the obtained values were (2.4 +- 0.2) x 10 11 n.cm -2 .s -1 and (2.8 +- 0.1)x10 12 n.cm -2 .s -1 for the PTT2 and the CT, respectively. (author)

R-matrix parameters in reactor applications

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hwang, R.N.

1992-01-01

The key role of the resonance phenomena in reactor applications manifests through the self-shielding effect. The basic issue involves the application of the microscopic cross sections in the macroscopic reactor lattices consisting of many nuclides that exhibit resonance behavior. To preserve the fidelity of such a effect requires the accurate calculations of the cross sections and the neutron flux in great detail. This clearly not possible without viable resonance data. Recently released ENDF/B VI resonance data in the resolved range especially reflect the dramatic improvement in two important areas; namely, the significant extension of the resolved resonance ranges accompanied by the availability of the R-matrix parameters of the Reich-Moore type. Aside from the obvious increase in computing time required for the significantly greater number of resonances, the main concern is the compatibility of the Riech-Moore representation to the existing reactor processing codes which, until now, are based on the traditional cross section formalisms. This purpose of this paper is to summarize our recent efforts to facilitate implementation of the proposed methods into the production codes at ANL

Theoretical studies aiming at the IEA-R1 reactor core conversion from high U-235 enrichment to low U-235 enrichment

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Frajndlich, R.

1982-01-01

The research reactors, of which the fuel elements are of MTR type, functions presently, almost in their majority with high U-235 enrichment. The fear that those fuel elements might generate a considerabLe proliferation of nuclear weapons rendered almost mandatory the conversion of highly enriched fuel elements to a low U-235 enrichment. As the IEA-R1 reactor of IPEN is operating with highly enriched fuel elements a study aiming at this conversion was done. The problems related to the conversion and the results obtained, demonstrated the technical viabilty for its realization. (E.G.) [pt

Application of non-destructive methods for qualification of the U3O8-Al and U3Si2-Al dispersion fuels in the IEA-R1 Reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Silva, Jose Eduardo Rosa da

2011-01-01

IPEN/CNEN-SP manufactures fuels to be used in its nuclear research reactor - the IEA-R1. To qualify those fuels, it is necessary to check if they have a good performance under irradiation. As Brazil doesn't have nuclear research reactors with high neutron fluxes, or suitable hot cells for carrying out post-irradiation examination of nuclear fuels, IPEN/CNEN-SP has conducted a fuel qualification program based on the use of uranium compounds, internationally tested and qualified to be used in research reactors, and has gotten experience in the technological development stages for the manufacturing of fuel plates, irradiation and non-destructive post-irradiation testing. Fuel elements containing low volume fractions of fuel in the dispersion were manufactured and irradiated successfully directly in the core of the IEA-R1. However, there are plans to increase the uranium density of these fuels. The objective of this thesis work was to study and to propose a set of non-destructive methods to qualify the dispersions fuels U 3 O 8 -Al e U 3 Si 2 -Al with high uranium density produced at IPEN/CNEN-SP. For that, the irradiation resources in the IEA-R1, and the application of non-destructive methods in the reactor pool available in the Institution were considered. The proposal is to specify, manufacture and irradiate fuel mini plates in IEA-R1 at the maximum densities, qualified internationally, and to monitor their general conditions during the period of irradiation, using non-destructive methods in the reactor pool. In addition to the non-destructive visual inspection and sipping methods, already used at the Institution, the infrastructure for dimensional sub-aquatic testing to evaluate the swelling of irradiated fuel mini plates was completed. The analyses of the results will provide means to assess and decide whether or not to continue with the irradiation of mini plates, until the desired burnup for the irradiation tests at IEA-R1 are reached. (author)

IEA-R1 renewed primary coolant piping system stress analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fainer, Gerson; Faloppa, Altair A.; Oliveira, Carlos A. de; Mattar Neto, Miguel

2015-01-01

A partial replacement of the IEA-R1 piping system was conducted in 2014. The aim of this work is to perform the stress analysis of the renewed primary piping system of the IEA-R1, taking into account the as built conditions and the pipe modifications. The nuclear research reactor IEA-R1 is a pool type reactor designed by Babcox-Willcox, which is operated by IPEN since 1957. The primary coolant system is responsible for removing the residual heat of the Reactor core. As a part of the life management, a regular inspection detected some degradation in the primary piping system. In consequence, part of the piping system was replaced. The partial renewing of the primary piping system did not imply in major piping layout modifications. However, the stress condition of the piping systems had to be reanalyzed. The structural stress analysis of the primary piping systems is now presented and the final results are discussed. (author)

Neutronic, thermal-hydraulics and accident analysis calculations for an irradiation device to be used in the qualification process of dispersion fuels in the IEA-R1 research reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Domingos, Douglas Borges; Silva, Antonio Teixeira e; Umbehaun, Pedro Ernesto; Silva, Jose Eduardo Rosa da; Conti, Thadeu das Neves; Yamaguchi, Mitsuo [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN/SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)], e-mail: douglasborgesdomingos@yahoo.com.br

2009-07-01

Neutronic, thermal-hydraulics and accident analysis calculations were developed to estimate the safety of an irradiation device placed in the IEA-R1 reactor core. The irradiation device will be used to receive miniplates of U{sub 3}O{sub 8}-Al e U{sub 3}Si{sub 2}-Al dispersion fuels, LEU type (19.9% of {sup 235}U), with uranium densities of, respectively, 3.0 gU/cm{sup 3} and 4.8gU/cm{sup 3}. The fuel miniplates will be irradiated to nominal {sup 235}U burnup levels of 50% and 80%, in order to qualify the above high-density dispersion fuels to be used in the Brazilian Multipurpose Reactor, now in the conception phase. For the neutronic calculation, the computer code CITATION was utilized. The computer code FLOW was used to calculate the coolant flow rate in the irradiation device, allowing the determination of the fuel miniplate temperatures with the computer model MTRCR-IEA-R1. A postulated Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA) was analyzed with the computer codes LOSS and TEMPLOCA, allowing the calculation of the fuel miniplate temperatures after the reactor pool draining. The calculations showed that the irradiation of the fuel miniplates will happen without any adverse consequence in the IEA-R1 reactor. (author)

Environmental issues associated with R Reactor renovation and startup

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Marter, W.L.

1982-01-01

This memorandum identifies the more significant environmental issues that would be associated with renovation and startup of R Reactor to meet future demands for nuclear weapon materials. Some key environmental issues identified are: potential occupational radiation exposures associated with repairing the leaks in the reactor nozzles and thermal shield tanks and with renovating the disassembly basin facilities; the impacts of constructing additional cooling water pumping capacity; the effect of increased pumping on impingement and entrainment at the pump houses; thermal effects on the R Canal-precooler pond-Par Pond ecosystem from increased discharge of cooling water; and effects of increased water flow in Lower Three Runs Creek on biota and on cesium-137 remobilization

Equipment for thermal neutron flux measurements in reactor R2

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Johansson, E; Nilsson, T; Claeson, S

1960-04-15

For most of the thermal neutron flux measurements in reactor R2 cobalt wires will be used. The loading and removal of these wires from the reactor core will be performed by means of a long aluminium tube and electromagnets. After irradiation the wires will be scanned in a semi-automatic device.

Real-time neutron radiography at the Iea-R1 m nuclear research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Menezes, M.O. de; Pugliesi, R.; Pereira, M.A.S.; Andrade, M.L.G.

2003-01-01

A LIXI (Light Intensifier X-ray Image) device has been employed in a real-time neutron radiography system. The LIXI is coupled to a video camera and the real-time images can be observed in a TV monitor, and processed in a computer. In order to get the real-time system operational, the neutron radiography facility installed at the IEA-R1 m nuclear research reactor of the IPEN-CNEN/S P has been optimized. The most important improvements were the neutron/gamma ratio, the effective energy of the neutron beam, decrease of the scattered radiation at the irradiation position, and the additional shielding of the video camera. Several one-frame as well as computer processed images are presented. The overall Modulation Transfer Function for the real-time system was obtained from the resolution parameter p = 0:44 +- 0:04 mm; the system sensitivity, evaluated for a Perspex step wedge, was determined and the average value is 0:70 +- 0:09 mm. (author)

Characterization of the water filters cartridges from the iea-r1 reactor using the Monte Carlo method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Costa, Priscila; Potiens Junior, Ademar J.

2015-01-01

Filter cartridges are part of the primary water treatment system of the IEA-R1 Research Reactor and, when saturated, they are replaced and become radioactive waste. The IEA-R1 is located at the Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN), in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The primary characterization is the main step of the radioactive waste management in which the physical, chemical and radiological properties are determined. It is a very important step because the information obtained in this moment enables the choice of the appropriate management process and the definition of final disposal options. In this paper, it is presented a non-destructive method for primary characterization, using the Monte Carlo method associated with the gamma spectrometry. Gamma spectrometry allows the identification of radionuclides and their activity values. The detection efficiency is an important parameter, which is related to the photon energy, detector geometry and the matrix of the sample to be analyzed. Due to the difficult to obtain a standard source with the same geometry of the filter cartridge, another technique is necessary to calibrate the detector. The technique described in this paper uses the Monte Carlo method for primary characterization of the IEA-R1 filter cartridges. (author)

Considerations about decommissioning of the IEA-R1 research reactor and the future of its installations after shutdown; Consideracoes sobre o descomissionamento do reator de pesquisa IEA-R1 e futuro de suas instalacoes apos o seu desligamento

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Frajndlich, Roberto

2014-07-01

The IEA-R1 Nuclear Research Reactor, in operation since 1957, in the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN-CNEN/SP), is one of the oldest research reactors in the world. However at some point in time in the future, as example of the other reactors, it will be shutdown definitively. Before that time actually arrives, the operational organization needs to plan the future of its installations and define the final destination of equipment and radioactive as well as non-radioactive material contained inside the installations. These and other questions should be addressed in the so called Preliminary decommissioning plan of the installation, which is the subject of this work. The work initially presents an over view about the theme and defines the general and specific objectives describing, in succession, the directions that the operating organization should consider for the formulation of a decommissioning plan. The present structure of the Brazilian nuclear sector emphasizing principally the norms utilized in the management of radioactive waste is also presented. A description of principle equipment of the IEA-R1 reactor which constitutes its inventory of radioactive and non-radioactive material is given. The work emphasizes the experience of the reactor technicians, acquired during several reforms and modifications of the reactor installations realized during its useful life time. This experience may be of great help for the decommissioning in the future. An experiment using the high resolution gamma spectrometric method and computer calculation using Monte Carlo theory were performed with the objective of obtaining an estimate of the radioactive waste produced from dismantling of the reactor pool walls. The cost of reactor decommissioning for different choices of strategies was determined using the CERREX code. Finally, a discussion about different strategies is presented. On the basis of these discussions it is concluded that the most advantageous

Studsvik's R2 reactor - Review of activities

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Grounes, Mikael; Tomani, Hans; Graeslund, Christian; Rundquist, Hans; Skoeld, Kurt [Studsvik Nuclear AB, Nykoeping (Sweden)

1993-07-01

A general description of the R2 reactor, its associated facilities and its history is given. The facilities and range of work are described for the following types of activities: fuel testing, materials testing, neutron transmutation doping of silicon, activation analysis, radioisotope production and basic research including thermal neutron scattering, nuclear chemistry and neutron capture radiography. (author)

GNES-R: Global nuclear energy simulator for reactors task 1: High-fidelity neutron transport

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Clarno, K.; De Almeida, V.; D'Azevedo, E.; De Oliveira, C.; Hamilton, S.

2006-01-01

A multi-laboratory, multi-university collaboration has formed to advance the state-of-the-art in high-fidelity, coupled-physics simulation of nuclear energy systems. We are embarking on the first-phase in the development of a new suite of simulation tools dedicated to the advancement of nuclear science and engineering technologies. We seek to develop and demonstrate a new generation of multi-physics simulation tools that will explore the scientific phenomena of tightly coupled physics parameters within nuclear systems, support the design and licensing of advanced nuclear reactors, and provide benchmark quality solutions for code validation. In this paper, we have presented the general scope of the collaborative project and discuss the specific challenges of high-fidelity neutronics for nuclear reactor simulation and the inroads we have made along this path. The high-performance computing neutronics code system utilizes the latest version of SCALE to generate accurate, problem-dependent cross sections, which are used in NEWTRNX - a new 3-D, general-geometry, discrete-ordinates solver based on the Slice-Balance Approach. The Global Nuclear Energy Simulator for Reactors (GNES-R) team is embarking on a long-term simulation development project that encompasses multiple laboratories and universities for the expansion of high-fidelity coupled-physics simulation of nuclear energy systems. (authors)

Dose measurements in controlled area and laboratory of TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maretti Junior, Fausto; Alvarenga, Frederico Ladeia

2005-01-01

The workers doses in exposure areas to the radiation are so important for a Radioprotection Quality Program, as well as to guarantee the workers safety. For that it is necessary to raise the doses in the radiation areas, to obtain the accumulated dose in certain procedures for detailed studies. Several risings were accomplished to obtain the radiation levels in the areas where the workers are exposed due the operation of a research nuclear reactor and in the radioisotopes manipulation laboratories of a nuclear institute. The radiation levels and doses can be observed through graphs in the dependences of the Controlled Area 1 (AC-1) and the Reactor Laboratory. Those limits are in according of the CNEN-NE-3.01 work limits rules. The conclusion of the work allowed to demonstrate that the Laboratory of the Reactor and AC-1, have booth an effective radiological program with efficient operational practices that contributes with low doses to the workers. (author)

Studies review and exploration purpose of neutron radiography technique in the TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor at CDTN, Brazil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Costa, Antonella Lombardi; Amorim, Valter Alves de; Stasiulevicius, Roberto; Rocha, Zildete

2002-01-01

Neutron Radiography - NR - consists of obtaining on a sensitive plate, the image produced by neutron flux after crossing an object. Through NR is possible to inspect plastics and explosives materials and organic composition. Is difficult to analyze these materials by the radiography technique. The neutron beam extractor was installed, in the TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor at the CDTN. This work presents preliminaries results of the NR researches in the past at CDTN, which are being retaken. (author)

Management of European fast reactor R and D

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Judd, A.M.; Sheriff, N.

1993-01-01

Since 1984 government-funded fast reactor R and D in France, Germany and the UK has been run as a collaborative activity, and since 1988 as a unified programme in support of the design and construction of the advanced European Fast Reactor. This paper describes the international management structure which has been set up, and the means used to control the work. It is written from the point of view of those engaged in the project, and makes no attempt at a formal analysis of the structure. The main difficulty is that control of funding remains with the three governments. The R and D programme has to be managed so that it meets the needs of each government separately as well as the designers' requirements. To start with the management structure was excessively bureaucratic, but it has become more flexible and efficient. This has happened as the initial nationalistic suspicions have broken down, and the staff engaged in the work have learnt more about each others' ways of working so that an atmosphere of trust and inter-dependence has grown up. (This paper was written before the changes in UK policy on fast reactor development were announced in November 1992). (Author)

Fast reactors: R and D targets and outlook for their introduction

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Poplavsky, V.; Barre, B.; Aizawa, K.

1997-01-01

In this paper the current status of fast reactors development is briefly outlined, including experimental, demonstration, and commercial installations. Data on the experience gained in development and operation of NPPs with reactors of this type are presented. The issues are discussed in connection with possibilities of fast reactor development in the nuclear power structure for the near (up to 2010-2020) and distant future. In the final part of the paper, an analysis is given of possible ways for R and D development in the field of NPPs with fast neutron reactors. (author)

Improvements at the biological shielding of BNCT research facility in the IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Souza, Gregorio Soares de

2011-01-01

The technique of neutron capture in boron is a promising technique in cancer treatment, it uses the high LET particles from the reaction 10 B (n, α) 7 Li to destroy cancer cells.The development of this technique began in the mid-'50s and even today it is the object of study and research in various centers around the world, Brazil has built a facility that aims to conduct research in BNCT, this facility is located next to irradiation channel number three at the research nuclear reactor IEA-R1 and has a biological shielding designed to meet the radiation protection standards. This biological shielding was developed to allow them to conduct experiments with the reactor at maximum power, so it is not necessary to turn on and off the reactor to irradiate samples. However, when the channel is opened for experiments the background radiation in the experiments salon increases and this background variation makes it impossible to perform measurements in a neutron diffraction research that utilizes the irradiation channel number six. This study aims to further improve the shielding in order to minimize the variation of background making it possible to perform the research facility in BNCT without interfering with the action of the research group of the irradiation channel number six. To reach this purpose, the code MCNP5, dosimeters and activation detectors were used to plan improvements in the biological shielding. It was calculated with the help of the code an improvement that can reduce the average heat flow in 71.2% ± 13 and verified experimentally a mean reduce of 70 ± 9% in dose due to thermal neutrons. (author)

Development Plan and R and D Status of China Lead-based Reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wu, Yican; Bai, Yunqing; Song, Yong; Li, Yazhou; Team, FDS [Institute of Nuclear Energy Safety Technology, Beijing (Switzerland)

2013-07-01

Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) launched an engineering project to develop ADS system and lead-based reactors named China LEAd-based Reactor (CLEAR) series. The Institute of Nuclear Energy Safety Technology (INEST) will be responsible for the CLEAR design and R and D. In this project, CAS plans to develop the lead-based reactors through 3 phases which are 10MWth lead based research reactor (CLEAR-I), 100MWth lead-based experimental reactor (CLEAR-II), 1000MWth lead-based demonstration reactor (CLEAR-III). As a pre-testing facility, a lead-based zero-power reactor (CLEAR-0) is required to be built before CLEAR-I construction and operation. The new conceptual design of lead-based reactors, including hydrogen production, tritium production for fusion energy and thorium utilization, is also on-going. Lead-lithium cooled fusion reactor blanket design and lead-lithium experimental loops have been developed more than 10 years. CLEAR series reactor conceptual design has been finished and detailed engineering design for CLEAR-I is underway. The R and D activities for CLEAR reactor including design and safety software, key components, structural materials, lead-based experimental loops and neutronics experimental platform are developing. Series of liquid lead-based experimental loops named DRAGON (Lead-Lithium) and KYLIN (Lead-Bismuth) have already been built or on constructing to performed experiments investigating the structure material corrosion issues and the thermal-hydraulic properties of lead-based coolant. The Highly Intensified D-T Neutron Generator HINEG for neutron experiment and software validation will be constructed. Series advanced reactor design software and nuclear library have been developed for lead-alloy cooled reactor, including CAD based Multi-Functional 4D Neutronics Simulation System (Visual Bus), Monte Carlo Automatic Modeling Program for Radiation Transport Simulation (MCAM), Super Monte Carlo Simulation Program (SuperMC), Nuclear Radiation

Development Plan and R and D Status of China Lead-based Reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wu, Yican; Bai, Yunqing; Song, Yong; Li, Yazhou; Team, FDS

2013-01-01

Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) launched an engineering project to develop ADS system and lead-based reactors named China LEAd-based Reactor (CLEAR) series. The Institute of Nuclear Energy Safety Technology (INEST) will be responsible for the CLEAR design and R and D. In this project, CAS plans to develop the lead-based reactors through 3 phases which are 10MWth lead based research reactor (CLEAR-I), 100MWth lead-based experimental reactor (CLEAR-II), 1000MWth lead-based demonstration reactor (CLEAR-III). As a pre-testing facility, a lead-based zero-power reactor (CLEAR-0) is required to be built before CLEAR-I construction and operation. The new conceptual design of lead-based reactors, including hydrogen production, tritium production for fusion energy and thorium utilization, is also on-going. Lead-lithium cooled fusion reactor blanket design and lead-lithium experimental loops have been developed more than 10 years. CLEAR series reactor conceptual design has been finished and detailed engineering design for CLEAR-I is underway. The R and D activities for CLEAR reactor including design and safety software, key components, structural materials, lead-based experimental loops and neutronics experimental platform are developing. Series of liquid lead-based experimental loops named DRAGON (Lead-Lithium) and KYLIN (Lead-Bismuth) have already been built or on constructing to performed experiments investigating the structure material corrosion issues and the thermal-hydraulic properties of lead-based coolant. The Highly Intensified D-T Neutron Generator HINEG for neutron experiment and software validation will be constructed. Series advanced reactor design software and nuclear library have been developed for lead-alloy cooled reactor, including CAD based Multi-Functional 4D Neutronics Simulation System (Visual Bus), Monte Carlo Automatic Modeling Program for Radiation Transport Simulation (MCAM), Super Monte Carlo Simulation Program (SuperMC), Nuclear Radiation

Experience on wet storage spent fuel sipping at IEA-R1 Brazilian research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Perrotta, J.A.; Terremoto, L.A.A.; Zeituni, C.A.

1998-01-01

The IEA-R1 research reactor of the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP) is a pool type reactor of B and W design, that has been operating since 1957 at a power of 2 MW. Irradiated (spent) fuels have been stored at the facility during the various years of operation. At present there are 40 spent fuel assemblies at dry storage, 79 spent fuel assemblies at wet storage and 30 fuel assemblies in the core. The oldest fuels are of United States origin, made with U-Al alloy, both of LEU and HEU MTR fuel type. Many of these fuel assemblies have corrosion pits along their lateral fuel plates. These pits originate by galvanic corrosion between the fuel plate and the stainless steel storage racks. As a consequence of the possibility of sending the irradiated old fuels back the U.S.A., sipping tests were performed with the spent fuel assemblies. The reason for this was to evaluate their 137 Cs leaking rate, if any. This work describes the procedure and methodology used to perform the sipping tests with the fuel assemblies at the storage pool, and presents the results obtained for the 137 Cs sipping water activity for each fuel assembly. A correlation is made between the corrosion pits and the activity values measured. A 137 Cs leaking rate is determined and compared to the criteria established for canning spent fuel assemblies before shipment

Characterization of filter cartridges from the IEA-R1 reactor by radiochemical method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Geraldo, Bianca; Vicente, Roberto; Ferreira, Robson J.; Goes, Marcos M.; Marumo, Julio T.

2015-01-01

The filter cartridges used in water purification system of research nuclear reactor IEA-R1 are considered radioactive wastes after their useful life. The characterization of these wastes is one of the stages of management, which aims to identify and quantify the radionuclides present, including those known as 'difficult to measure' (DTM) radionuclides. Establish a radiochemical analysis methodology for this type of waste is a difficult job, not only by the application of these techniques, but also by the amount of radionuclides that should be analyzed. In the waste produced in a nuclear reactor, the most important radionuclides are fission products, activation products and transuranic elements. Since these radionuclides emit gamma radiation not measurable in its decay process and consequently are difficult to measure, their concentrations can be estimated by indirect methods such as scale factors. This method is used to evaluate the DTM concentration, which is represented by alpha and beta nuclides using the correlation between them and the radionuclide key, a gamma emitter. The objective of this work is to describe a radiochemical analysis methodology for gamma emitter nuclides, present in the filter cartridges, evaluating the activity and concentrations by destructive assays. At the same time, two studies have been performed by non-destructive assays, the first one based on dose rates and the point kernel method to correlate the results and the second one based on calibration efficiency with Monte Carlo method. These studies belong to the radioactive waste characterization program that has been conducted at the Waste Management Laboratory of Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, IPEN-CNEN/SP. (author)

Characterization of filter cartridges from the IEA-R1 reactor by radiochemical method

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Geraldo, Bianca; Vicente, Roberto; Ferreira, Robson J.; Goes, Marcos M.; Marumo, Julio T., E-mail: bgeraldo@ipen.br [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2015-07-01

The filter cartridges used in water purification system of research nuclear reactor IEA-R1 are considered radioactive wastes after their useful life. The characterization of these wastes is one of the stages of management, which aims to identify and quantify the radionuclides present, including those known as 'difficult to measure' (DTM) radionuclides. Establish a radiochemical analysis methodology for this type of waste is a difficult job, not only by the application of these techniques, but also by the amount of radionuclides that should be analyzed. In the waste produced in a nuclear reactor, the most important radionuclides are fission products, activation products and transuranic elements. Since these radionuclides emit gamma radiation not measurable in its decay process and consequently are difficult to measure, their concentrations can be estimated by indirect methods such as scale factors. This method is used to evaluate the DTM concentration, which is represented by alpha and beta nuclides using the correlation between them and the radionuclide key, a gamma emitter. The objective of this work is to describe a radiochemical analysis methodology for gamma emitter nuclides, present in the filter cartridges, evaluating the activity and concentrations by destructive assays. At the same time, two studies have been performed by non-destructive assays, the first one based on dose rates and the point kernel method to correlate the results and the second one based on calibration efficiency with Monte Carlo method. These studies belong to the radioactive waste characterization program that has been conducted at the Waste Management Laboratory of Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, IPEN-CNEN/SP. (author)

R and D on fast reactor fuel reprocessing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Subba Rao, R.V.; Vijaya Kumar, V.; Natarajan, R.

2012-01-01

Development of Fast Reactor Fuel Reprocessing technology, with low out of pile inventory, is carried out at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR). Based on the successful R and D programme which addressed specific issues of fast reactor fuels, a pilot plant called CORAL was set up. This plant is operational since 2003 and several reprocessing campaigns with spent FBTR fuels of varying burnups have been carried out. Based on the valuable operating experience of CORAL, the design of demonstration fast reactor fuel reprocessing plant (DFRP) and the commercial reprocessing plant, FRP have been taken up. Concurrently R and D efforts are continuing for improving the process and equipment performance apart from reducing the waste volumes and the radiation exposures to the operating personnel. Some important R and D efforts are highlighted in the paper. Reducing the dissolution time is one of the vital area of investigation especially for the high plutonium bearing MOX fuels which are known to dissolve slowly. To address this as well as criticality issues, continuous dissolvers are being developed. Solvent extraction based process is employed for getting highly pure nuclear grade uranium and plutonium. In view of the lower cooling time the fission product activity in the spent fuel is higher, formulation of process flowsheet with reduced number of solvent extraction cycles to improve the decontamination of ruthenium and zirconium without the formation of second organic phase due to plutonium loading, is under investigation. Retention of plutonium in lean organic is another issue to be addressed as otherwise it would lead to further deterioration of the solvent on storage. Several reagents to effectively wash the lean solvent have been investigated and flowsheets have been formulated to recover the retained plutonium with minimum secondary wastes. Partitioning of uranium and plutonium is an important step and methods reported in the literature have inherent

Development of the user Interface of digital simulation system of the operational parameters of the TRIGA IPR-R1 Nuclear Research Reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Felippe, Adriano de A.M.; Lage, Aldo M.F.; Mesquita, Amir Z.

2017-01-01

The development of simulation systems has been increasingly improved to ensure security and reliability to the systems being associated. Computational tools, simulation systems and programming languages increasingly allow the diversification of control systems. With increasing concern about monitoring the key parameters involved in chain reactions inside a nuclear reactor, new technologies are being developed to ensure operations safety. This paper deals with a practical application of a work that is being developed in the Center for the Development of Nuclear Technology - CDTN, which intends to simulate the operation of the TRIGA-IPR-R1 nuclear research reactor using the LabVIEW® software, evaluating the evolution of the neutron flux and other related events. In this paper, the visual interface of the reactor control table, developed through virtual instruments that allow, in a vast repertoire of tools, replicating the panels of the control table in modern screens that can be operated by a user of an analogous form, but still more practical and complete. Since the innovations developed for research reactors can be replicated in power reactors, and because of their lower operating and maintenance costs, projects in this area allow the development of several technologies

Development and implementation of a new pneumatic transfer system for materials irradiation at IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fernando, Alberto de Jesus

2011-01-01

Pneumatic Transfer Systems (PTS) are classified as mechanical equipment largely operated all over the world for transport of a huge sort of objects, samples and materials located at nearly terminals or even at separated ones. System applicability is often recognized in many activities, such as medicine (hospital settings, clinical analysis labs), industry (steel, automobiles, mining, chemical, food, construction), trading (gas station, movies, supermarkets, banks, e-commerce) and federal agencies (post services, federal courts, public enterprises). In the nuclear settings, PTS shows also a vast array of applications, being a part of radioisotope production, as well as short-lived radiopharmaceuticals, including 67 Ga, 201 Tl, 18 F and 123 I-ultra pure. Besides, PTS are also used at radioactive waste management plants and research institutes that apply neutron activation analysis (NAA). This work was directed toward the design and operation of a new PTS for the IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor settled at Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN) for NAA application. With this aim, it was calculated the charge of reactor core grid plate and sample transport testing. Neutron flux at irradiating position was determined as 3,70 ± 0,26 10 12 n cm -2 s -1 . (author)

Neutron flux determination at the IPR-R1 Triga Mark I neutron beam extractor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zangirolami, Dante Marco; Maretti Junior, Fausto; Ferreira, Andrea Vidal

2009-01-01

The IPR-R1 Triga Mark I Reactor located at the CDTN/CNEN, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, has been operating since November of 1960. In this work, measurements of thermal and epithermal neutron flux along the IPR-R1 neutron beam extractor were performed by neutron activation of reference materials using the two foils method. The obtained results were compared with results from two previous works: an experimental measurement done in a previous reactor core configuration and a numerical work made by Monte Carlo simulation using the actual reactor core configuration. The main purpose of this work is to update the measured data to the actual reactor core configuration. (author)

Final report on the IAEA research contracts No. 1194/RB, 1194/R1/RB and 1194/R2/RB

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zobor, E.; Janosy, J.S.; Szentgali, A.

1980-09-01

The final report summarizes the research activities made in the framework of the IAEA Research Contracts No. 1194/RB, 1194/R1/RB and 1194/R2/RB. A multilevel hierarchical control system is treated which uses weakly-coupled low dimensional subsystems under the supervision of a dynamic coordinator program. This self-organizing adaptive control system was checked by a 5 MW research reactor. As an example the paper describes the experimental computer control system of the 5 MW WWR-SM research reactor, where the reactor power and outlet temperature have been controlled on the basis of the treated control concept since 1978. (author)

The evolution of doses in the IEA-R1 reactor environment and tendencies based on the current results; Evolucao das doses no ambiente do Reator IEA-R1 e tendencias com base nos resultados atuais

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Toyoda, Eduardo Yoshio

2016-11-01

The IPEN / CNEN-SP have a Nuclear Research Reactor-NRR named IEA-R1, in operation from 1957. It is an open swimming pool reactor using light water as shielding, moderator and as cooling, the volume of this pool is 273m{sup 3}.Until 1995 the reactor operated daily at a power of 2,0 MW. From June of that year, after a few safety modifications the reactor began operating in continuous way from Monday to Wednesday without shutdown totalizing 64 hours per week and the power was increased to 4,5MW also. Because of these changes, continuous operation and increased power, workers' doses would tend to increase. In the past several studies were conducted seeking ways to reduce the workers' doses. A study was made on the possibility to introduce a shielding at the top of the reactor core with a hot water layer. Studies have shown that a major limitation for operating a reactor at high power comes from the gamma radiation emitted by the sodium-24. Other elements such as magnesium-27, aluminum-28, Argon-51, contribute considerably to the water activity of the pool. The introduction of a hot water layer on the swimming pool would form a layer of surface, stable and free of radioactive elements with a 1.5m to 2m thickness creates a shielding to radiation from radioactive elements dissolved in water. Optimization studies proved that the installation of the hot layer was not necessary for the regime and the current power reactor operation, because other procedures adopted were more effective. From this decision the Radiological Protection Reactor Team, set up a dose assessment program to ensure them remained in low values based on principles established in national and international standards. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the individual doses of OEI (Occupationally Exposed Individual), which will be checked increasing doses resulting from recent changes in reactor operation regime and suggested viable safety and protection options, in the first instance to

Design and properties of marine reactors and associated R and D

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gagarinski, A; Ignatiev, V [Russian Research Centre Kurchatov Inst., Moscow (Russian Federation); Devell, L [Studsvik Eco and Safety AB, Nykoeping (Sweden)

1996-05-01

The report is a review of open information available in the USA, UK, France, Russia and other countries on the design and properties of marine reactors and associated R and D. First, a short discussion is given of the milestones and main trends for the development of nuclear-powered ships. Then a brief review is presented of features for ship reactor design. Light water and liquid metal cooled reactor technologies are described and reactor operating experiences for Russian ice-breakers assessed. Traditional and alternative civil uses of submarine and surface shipboard reactor technology in Russia and Japan are also treated. Finally, some problems connected with radioactive waste by the nuclear-powered fleet are briefly considered. 41 refs, 27 figs, 19 tabs.

Design and properties of marine reactors and associated R and D

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gagarinski, A.; Ignatiev, V.; Devell, L.

1996-05-01

The report is a review of open information available in the USA, UK, France, Russia and other countries on the design and properties of marine reactors and associated R and D. First, a short discussion is given of the milestones and main trends for the development of nuclear-powered ships. Then a brief review is presented of features for ship reactor design. Light water and liquid metal cooled reactor technologies are described and reactor operating experiences for Russian ice-breakers assessed. Traditional and alternative civil uses of submarine and surface shipboard reactor technology in Russia and Japan are also treated. Finally, some problems connected with radioactive waste by the nuclear-powered fleet are briefly considered. 41 refs, 27 figs, 19 tabs

Spatial distribution of the neutron flux in the IEA-R1 reactor core obtained by means of foil activation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mestnik Filho, J.

1979-01-01

A three-dimensional distribution of the neutron flux in IEA-R1 reactor, obtained by activating gold foils, is presented. The foils of diameter 8mm and thickness 0,013mm were mounted on lucite plates and located between the fuel element plates. Foil activities were measured using a 3x3 inches Nal(Tl) scintilation detector calibrated against a 4πβγ coincidence detector. Foil positions were chosen to minimize the errors of measurement; the overall estimated error on the measured flux is 5%. (Author) [pt

ASSESSMENT OF THE POTENTIAL FOR HYDROGEN GENERATION DURING GROUTING OPERATIONS IN THE R AND P REACTOR VESSELS

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wiersma, B.

2010-05-24

The R- and P-reactor buildings were retired from service and are now being prepared for deactivation and decommissioning (D and D). D and D activities consist primarily of immobilizing contaminated components and structures in a grout-like formulation. Aluminum corrodes very rapidly when it comes in contact with the alkaline grout materials and as a result produces hydrogen gas. To address this potential deflagration/explosion hazard, the Materials Science and Technology Directorate (MS and T) of the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) has been requested to review and evaluate existing experimental and analytical studies of this issue to determine if any process constraints on the chemistry of the fill material and the fill operation are necessary. Various options exist for the type of grout material that may be used for D and D of the reactor vessels. The grout formulation options include ceramicrete (pH 6-8), low pH portland cement + silica fume grout (pH 10.4), or Portland cement groupt (pH 12.5). The assessment concluded that either ceramicrete or the silica fume grout may be used to safely grout the P-reactor vessel. The risk of accumulation of a flammable mixture of hydrogen between the grout-air interface and the top of the reactor is very low. Portland cement grout, on the other hand, for the same range of process parameters does not provide a margin of safety against the accumulation of flammable gas in the reactor vessel during grouting operations in the P-reactor vessel. It is recommended that this grout not be utilized for this task. The R-reactor vessel cotnains significantly less aluminum based on current facility process knowledge, surface observations, and drawings. Therefore, a Portland cement grout may be considered for grouting operations as well as the other grout formulations. For example, if the grout fill rate is less than 1 inch/min and the grout temperature is maintained at 70 C or less, the risk of hydrogen accumulation during fill

Impact of uranium concentration reduction in side plates of the fuel elements of IEA-R1 reactor on neutronic and thermal hydraulic analyses; Impacto da reducao na concentracao de uranio nas placas laterais dos elementos combustiveis do reator IEA-R1 nas analises neutronica e termo-hidraulica

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rios, Ilka Antonia

2013-09-01

This master thesis presents a study to verify the impact of the uranium concentration reduction in the side plates of the reactor IEA-R1 fuel elements on the neutronic and thermal-hydraulic analyses. To develop such study, a previous IPEN-CNEN/SP research was reproduced by simulating the fuel elements burn-up, with side plate uranium density reduced to 50, 60 and 70% of the standard fuel element plates. This research begins with the neutronic analysis using the computer code HAMMER and the first step consists in the calculation of the cross section of all materials presented at the reactor core, with their initial concentration; the second step consists in the calculation of the fast and thermal neutron group fluxes and power densities for fuel elements using the computer code CITATION. HAMMER output data is used as input data. Once the neutronic analysis is finished and the most critical fuel elements with highest power density have been defined, the thermal-hydraulics analysis begins. This analysis uses MCTR-IEA-R1 thermal-hydraulics model, which equations are solved by commercial code EES. Thermalhydraulics analysis input is the power density data calculated by CITATION: it is considered the highest power density on each fuel element, where there is a higher energy release and, consequently, higher temperatures. This data is used on energy balance equations to calculate temperatures on critical fuel element regions. Reactor operation comparison for three different uranium densities on fuel side plates is presented. Uranium density reduction contributes to the cladding surface temperature to remain below the established limit, as reactor operation safety requirement and it does not affect significantly fuel element final burn-up nor reactor reactivity. The reduction of uranium in the side plates of the fuel elements of the IEA-R1 showed to be a viable option to avoid corrosion problems due to high temperatures. (author)

Thermal-hydraulic R and D infrastructure for water cooled reactors of the Indian nuclear power program

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vijayan, P.K.; Jain, V.; Saha, D.; Sinha, R.K.

2009-01-01

R and D has been the critical ingredient of Indian Nuclear Power Program from the very inception. Approach to R and D infrastructure has been closely associated with the three-stage nuclear power program that was crafted on the basis of available resources and technology in the short-term and energy security in the long-term. Early R and D efforts were directed at technologies relevant to Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) which are currently the mainstay of Indian nuclear power program. Lately, the R and D program has been steered towards the design and development of advanced and innovative reactors with the twin objective of utilization of abundant thorium and to meet the future challenges to nuclear power such as enhanced safety and reliability, better economy, proliferation resistance etc. Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR) is an Indian innovative reactor currently being developed to realize the above objectives. Extensive R and D infrastructure has been created to validate the system design and various passive concepts being incorporated in the AHWR. This paper provides a brief review of R and D infrastructure that has been developed at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre for thermal-hydraulic investigations for water-cooled reactors of Indian nuclear power program. (author)

A two dimensional code (R,Z) for nuclear reactor analysis and its application to the UAR-RI reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bishay, S.T.; Mikhail, I.F.I.; Gaafar, M.A.; Michaiel, M.L.; Nassar, S.F.

1988-01-01

A detailed study is given of fuel consumption in completely reflected cylindrical reactors. A two group, two dimensional (r,z) code is developed to carry out the required procedure. The code is applied to the UAR-RI reactor and the results are found to be in complete agreement with the experimental observations and with the theoretical interpretations. 7 fig., 12 tab

The Canadian R and D program targeted at CANDU reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Moeck, E.O.

1988-01-01

CANDU reactors produce electricity cheaply and reliably, with miniscule risk to the population and minimal impact on the environment. About half of Ontario's electricity and a third of New Brunswick's are generated by CANDU power plants. Hydro Quebec and utilities in Argentina, India, Pakistan, and the Republic of Korea also successfully operate CANDU reactors. Romania will soon join their ranks. The proven record of excellent performance of CANDUs is due in part to the first objective of the vigorous R and D program: namely, to sustain and improve existing CANDU power-plant technology. The second objective is to develop improved nuclear power plants that will remain competitive compared with alternative energy supplies. The third objective is to continue to improve our understanding of the processes underlying reactor safety and develop improved technology to mitigate the consequences of upset conditions. These three objectives are addressed by individual R and D programs in the areas of CANDU fuel channels, reduced operating costs, reduced capital costs, reactor safety research, and IAEA safeguards. The work is carried out mainly at three centres of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited--the Chalk River Nuclear Laboratories, the Whiteshell Nuclear Research Establishment, and the Sheridan Park Engineering Laboratories--and at Ontario Hydro's Research Laboratories. Canadian universities, consultants, manufacturers, and suppliers also provide expertise in their areas of specialization

Thermal power calibration of the TRIGA Mark I IPR-R1 reactor during the upgrading tests to 250 kW

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mesquita, Amir Zacarias; Maretti, Fausto Junior; Rezende, Hugo Cesar

2002-01-01

This paper presents the results and the methodology used to calibrate the thermal power of the TRIGA MARK I IPR-R1 Reactor in CDTN, Belo Horizonte, Brazil. This calibration was realized during the operation tests carried out to allow the reactor power upgrade from the current 100 kW to 250 kW. The methodology consisted in the measurement of the inlet and outlet temperature and the water flow in the primary cooling loop. The thermal balance together with the thermal losses gave the thermal power. There were made three sequences of tests. The first rising of the thermal power was made with the usual configuration of the core (59 fuel elements). After the changing of the ion chambers position and the control rod and the increase of the number of fuels (63 fuel elements), a new evaluation of the thermal power was accomplished, having been obtained a thermal power of 234 kW, for an indication of 250 kW in the lineal channel. After the return of the core to the initial configuration (59 fuel elements), it took place a new test, getting back the reactor to the power level of 100 kW. (author)

Structural evaluation of IEA-R1 primary system pump nozzles

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fainer, Gerson; Faloppa, Altair A.; Oliveira, Carlos A. de; Mattar Neto, Miguel, E-mail: gfainer@ipen.br, E-mail: afaloppa@ipen.br, E-mail: calberto@ipen.br, E-mail: mmattar@ipen.br [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2017-11-01

The IEA-R1 pumps of the primary coolant system may be required to withstand design and operational conditions. IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor is an open pool type reactor operated by IPEN since 1957. The reactor can be operated up to 5MW heating power since it was upgraded in a modernization program conducted by IPEN. The primary coolant system is composed by the piping system, decay tank, two heat pumps and two heat exchangers. In the latest arrangement upgrade of the primary system, conducted in 2014 as part of an aging management program, a partial replacement of the coolant piping and total replacement of piping and pump supports were done. As consequence, reviewed loads in the pump nozzles were obtained demanding a new evaluation of them. The aim of this report is to present the structural evaluation of the pump nozzles, considering the new loads coming from the new piping layout, according to: API 610 code verification, Supplier loads and structural analysis applying finite element method, by using the ANSYS computer program, regarding ASME VIII Div 1 & 2 recommendations. (author)

Structural evaluation of IEA-R1 primary system pump nozzles

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fainer, Gerson; Faloppa, Altair A.; Oliveira, Carlos A. de; Mattar Neto, Miguel

2017-01-01

The IEA-R1 pumps of the primary coolant system may be required to withstand design and operational conditions. IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor is an open pool type reactor operated by IPEN since 1957. The reactor can be operated up to 5MW heating power since it was upgraded in a modernization program conducted by IPEN. The primary coolant system is composed by the piping system, decay tank, two heat pumps and two heat exchangers. In the latest arrangement upgrade of the primary system, conducted in 2014 as part of an aging management program, a partial replacement of the coolant piping and total replacement of piping and pump supports were done. As consequence, reviewed loads in the pump nozzles were obtained demanding a new evaluation of them. The aim of this report is to present the structural evaluation of the pump nozzles, considering the new loads coming from the new piping layout, according to: API 610 code verification, Supplier loads and structural analysis applying finite element method, by using the ANSYS computer program, regarding ASME VIII Div 1 & 2 recommendations. (author)

Specific induced activity profile at the rotary specimen rack of IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor after the introduction of a new pneumatic transfer tube

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Souza, Luiz Claudio Andrade; Zangirolami, Dante Marco; Maretti Junior, Fausto; Ferreira, Andrea Vidal

2011-01-01

The IPR-R1 TRIGA nuclear reactor is located in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, at the Nuclear Technology Development Center (Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear, CDTN) of the National Committee on Nuclear Energy (Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear, CNEN). One of its irradiation devices is the rotary specimen rack (RSR), outside the reactor core, with forty irradiation positions arranged in a cylindrical geometry. In a previous work, the neutron fluence rate distribution at the RSR and its variation under different irradiation conditions were evaluated by means of specific induced activity measurements in samples of Al-0.1%Au reference material. Since then the core's configuration has been altered with the (re)introduction of another irradiation device, the pneumatic transfer tube 1 (PT-1). This paper aims at identifying and quantifying any changes in neutron fluence that such modification may have caused. (author)

Development of an emergency core cooling system for the converted IEA-R1m research reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Torres, Walmir Maximo; Baptista Filho, Benedito Dias; Ting, Daniel Kao Sun [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil). Dept. de Tecnologia de Reatores]. E-mail: wmtorres@net.ipen.br; bdbfilho@net.ipen.br; dksting@net.ipen.br

1998-07-01

This present work describes the development program carried out in the design and construction of the Emergency Core Cooling System for the IEA-R1m Research Reactor, including the system design, the experiments performed to validate the design, manufacturing, installation and commissioning. The experiments were performed in two phases. In the first phase, the spray flow rate and distribution were measured, using a full scale mock-up of the entire core, to establish the spray header geometry and specifications. In the second phase, a test section was fitted with electrically heated plates to simulate the fuel plates. Temperature measurements were carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the system to keep the temperatures below the limiting value. The experimental results were shown to the licensing authorities during the certification process. The main difficulties during the system assembly are also described. (author)

Nuclear reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yoshioka, Michiko.

1985-01-01

Purpose: To obtain an optimum structural arrangement of IRM having a satisfactory responsibility to the inoperable state of a nuclear reactor and capable of detecting the reactor power in an averaged manner. Constitution: As the structural arrangement of IRM, from 6 to 16 even number of IRM are bisected into equial number so as to belong two trip systems respectively, in which all of the detectors are arranged at an equal pitch along a circumference of a circle with a radius rl having the center at the position of the central control rod in one trip system, while one detector is disposed near the central control rod and other detectors are arranged substantially at an equal pitch along the circumference of a circle with a radius r2 having the center at the position for the central control rod in another trip system. Furthermore, the radius r1 and r2 are set such that r1 = 0.3 R, r2 = 0.5 R in the case where there are 6 IRM and r1 = 0.4 R and R2 = 0.8 R where there are eight IRM where R represents the radius of the reactor core. (Kawakami, Y.)

Evaporation rate measurement in the pool of IEAR-1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Torres, Walmir Maximo; Cegalla, Miriam A.; Baptista Filho, Benedito Dias

2000-01-01

The surface water evaporation in pool type reactors affects the ventilation system operation and the ambient conditions and dose rates in the operation room. This paper shows the results of evaporation rate experiment in the pool of IEA-R1 research reactor. The experiment is based on the demineralized water mass variation inside cylindrical metallic recipients during a time interval. Other parameters were measured, such as: barometric pressure, relative humidity, environmental temperature, water temperature inside the recipients and water temperature in the reactor pool. The pool level variation due to water contraction/expansion was calculated. (author)

ORNL R and D on advanced small and medium power reactors: selected topics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

White, J.D.; Trauger, D.B.

1989-01-01

From 1984-1985, ORNL studied several innovative small and medium power nuclear concepts with respect to viability. Criteria for assessment of market attractiveness were developed and are described here. Using these criteria and descriptions of selected advanced reactor concepts, an assessment of their projected market viability in the time period 2000-2010 was made. All of these selected concepts could be considered as having the potential for meeting the criteria but, in most cases, considerable R and D would be required to reduce uncertainties. This work and later studies of safety and licensing of advanced, passively safe reactor concepts by ORNL are described. The results of these studies are taken into account in most of the current (FY 1989) work at ORNL on advanced reactors. A brief outline of this current work is given. One of the current R and D efforts at ORNL which addresses the operability and safety of advanced reactors is the Advanced Controls Program. Selected topics from this Program are described

Fast breeder reactor fuel reprocessing R and D: technological development for a commercial plant

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Colas, J.; Saudray, D.; Coste, J.A.; Roux, J.P.; Jouan, A.

1987-01-01

The technological developments undertaken by the CEA are applied to a plant project of a 50 t/y capacity, having to reprocess in particular the SUPERPHENIX 1 reactor fuel. French experience on fast breeder reactor fuel reprocessing is presented, then the 50 t/y capacity plant project and the research and development installations. The R and D programs are described, concerning: head-end operations, solvent extractions, Pu02 conversion and storage, out-of-specification Pu02 redissolution, fission products solution vitrification, conditioning of stainless steel hulls by melting, development of remote operation equipments, study of corrosion and analytical problems

Proposal of a synchro panel meter instrument to replace the obsolete Synchro/Resolver reading device used as position indicator of safety rods assembly of the Brazilian IEA-R1 Nuclear Research Reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Toledo, Fabio de; Brancaccio, Franco; Cardenas, Jose Patricio N.

2015-01-01

IPEN (Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares) was founded in 1956 (as Atomic Energy Institute - IEA) as a facility complex, for the research, development and application, in the nuclear technology field. The institute is recognized as a national leader in nuclear research and development (R and D), including the areas of reactor operation, radiopharmaceuticals, industrial and laboratory applications, materials science and laser technologies and applications. IPEN's main facility is the IEA-R1, nuclear research reactor (NRR), today, the only one in Brazil with a power level suitable for applications in physics, chemistry, biology and engineering. Some radioisotopes are also produced in IEA-R1, for medical and other applications. A common problem faced in the IEA-R1 maintenance is instrumentation obsolescence; spare parts are no more available, because of discontinued production, and an updating program is mandatory, aiming at modernization of old-aged I and C systems. In the presented context, an electronic system is here proposed, as a replacement for the reactor safety (shim) rods assembly position indicator, based on an open-source physical computing platform called Arduino, which includes a simple microcontroller board and a software-code development environment. A mathematical algorithm for the synchro-motor signal processing was developed, and the obtained resolution was better than 1.5%. (author)

Proposal of a synchro panel meter instrument to replace the obsolete Synchro/Resolver reading device used as position indicator of safety rods assembly of the Brazilian IEA-R1 Nuclear Research Reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Toledo, Fabio de; Brancaccio, Franco; Cardenas, Jose Patricio N., E-mail: fatoledo@ipen.br, E-mail: fbrancac@ipen.br, E-mail: ahiru@ipen.br [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2015-07-01

IPEN (Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares) was founded in 1956 (as Atomic Energy Institute - IEA) as a facility complex, for the research, development and application, in the nuclear technology field. The institute is recognized as a national leader in nuclear research and development (R and D), including the areas of reactor operation, radiopharmaceuticals, industrial and laboratory applications, materials science and laser technologies and applications. IPEN's main facility is the IEA-R1, nuclear research reactor (NRR), today, the only one in Brazil with a power level suitable for applications in physics, chemistry, biology and engineering. Some radioisotopes are also produced in IEA-R1, for medical and other applications. A common problem faced in the IEA-R1 maintenance is instrumentation obsolescence; spare parts are no more available, because of discontinued production, and an updating program is mandatory, aiming at modernization of old-aged I and C systems. In the presented context, an electronic system is here proposed, as a replacement for the reactor safety (shim) rods assembly position indicator, based on an open-source physical computing platform called Arduino, which includes a simple microcontroller board and a software-code development environment. A mathematical algorithm for the synchro-motor signal processing was developed, and the obtained resolution was better than 1.5%. (author)

Strengthening the R and D on fast reactor technology, and promoting its industrialization

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wan Gang

2008-01-01

Based on the strategic thoughts of energy development in China expounded by Jiang Zemin in the article entitled 'Reflections on Energy Issues in China', the author points out in this paper that R and Ds on fast reactor technology shall be carried out timely in China by taking full advantage of international scientific resources, and overall planning in this regard shall be made as well. The point of view of strengthening fast reactor technology R and D and promoting its industrialization is also put forward in the paper. (authors)

Leaching Studies on ACR-1000{sup R} Fuel Under Reactor Operating Conditions

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sunder, S. [Atomic Energy of Canada Limited, Fuel and Fuel Channel Safety Branch, Chalk River, Ontario, K0J 1J0 (Canada)

2009-06-15

ACR-1000{sup R} is the latest nuclear power reactor being developed by AECL. The ACR-1000 fuel uses a modified CANFLEX{sup R} fuel bundle that contains low-enriched uranium and pellets of burnable neutron absorbers (BNA) in a central element. Dysprosium and gadolinium are used as the burnable neutron absorbers and are present as oxides in a 'fully-stabilized' zirconia matrix. The BNA material in the centre element is designed to limit the coolant void reactivity of the reactor core during postulated loss-of-coolant accidents. As part of the ACR-1000 fuel development, the stability of the BNA material under conditions associated with defects of the Zircaloy sheathing of the BNA central element has been investigated. The results of these tests can be used to demonstrate the phase stability and leaching behaviour of the ACR-1000 fuel under reactor operating conditions. The samples were disks, about 3-4 mm thick, obtained from BNA pellets and Candu fuel (natural uranium UO{sub 2}) pellets (the UO{sub 2} measurements provide a reference point). Leaching tests were carried out in light water at 325 deg. C, above the maximum coolant temperature in an ACR-1000 fuel channel during normal operating conditions (319 deg. C). This temperature also bounds the maximum operating temperature for the current Candu reactors (311 deg. C). The initial pH of the solution (measured at room temperature) used in the leaching tests was 10.3. The leach rates were determined by monitoring the amount of metals leached into solutions. Leaching tests were also carried out with BNA pellet samples in the presence of Zr-2.5%Nb pressure tube coupons to determine the effects, if any, of the presence of pressure tube material on leach rates. Other leaching tests with BNA pellet samples and UO{sub 2} pellets were conducted at 80 deg. C to study the effects of temperature on the leach rates. The temperature of 80 deg. C was selected as representative of typical shutdown temperatures

Shadow corrosion testing in the INCA facility in the Studsvik R2 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nystrand, A.C.; Lassing, A.

1999-01-01

Shadow corrosion is a phenomenon which occurs when zirconium alloys are in contact with or in proximity to other metallic objects in a boiling water reactor environment (BWR, RBMK, SGHWR etc.). An enhanced corrosion occurs on the zirconium alloy with the appearance of a 'shadow' of the metallic object. The magnitude of the shadow corrosion can be significant, and is potentially limiting for the lifetime of certain zirconium alloy components in BWRs and other reactors with a similar water chemistry. In order to evaluate the suitability of the In-Core Autoclave (INCA) in the Studsvik R2 materials testing reactor as an experimental facility for studying shadow corrosion, a demonstration test has been performed. A number of test specimens consisting of Zircaloy-2 tubing in contact with Inconel were exposed in an oxidising water chemistry. Some of the specimens were placed within the reactor core and some above the core. The conclusion of this experiment after post irradiation examination is that it is possible to use the INCA facility in the Studsvik R2 reactor to develop a significant level of shadow corrosion after only 800 hours of irradiation. (author)

Estimative of core damage frequency in IPEN's IEA-R1 research reactor (PSA level 1) due to the initiating event of loss of coolant caused by large rupture in the pipe of the primary circuit

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hirata, Daniel Massami

2009-01-01

This work applies the methodology of probabilistic safety assessment level 1 to the research reactor IEA-R1 IPEN-CNEN/SP. Two categories of identified initiating events of accidents in the reactor are studied: loss of flow and loss of primary coolant. Among the initiating events, blockage of flow channel and loss of cooling fluid by major pipe rupture in the primary circuit are chosen for a detailed analysis. The event tree technique is used to analyze the evolution of the accident, including the actuation or the fail of actuation of the safety systems and the reactor damages. Using the fault tree the reliability of the following reactor safety systems is evaluated: reactor shutdown system, isolation of the reactor pool, emergency core cooling system (ECCS) and the electric system. Estimative for the frequency of damage to the reactor core and the probability of failure of the analyzed systems are calculated. The estimated values for the frequencies of core damage are within the expected margins and are of the same order of magnitude as those found for similar reactors. The reliability of the reactor shutdown system, isolation of the reactor pool and ECCS are satisfactory for the conditions these systems are required. However, for the electric system it is suggested an upgrade to increase its reliability. (author)

Safety approach and R and D program for future french sodium-cooled fast reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Beils, Stephane; Carluec, Bernard; Devictor, Nicolas; Fiorini, Gian Luigi; Sauvage, Jean Francois

2011-01-01

This paper presents briefly the safety approach as well as the R and D program that is underway to support the deployment of future French Sodium-Cooled fast Reactors (SFRs): A) Safety objectives and principles for future reactors. The content of the first section reflects the works of AREVA, CEA, and EDF concerning the safety orientations for the future reactors. The availability of such orientations and requirements for the SFRs has to allow introducing and managing the process that will lead to the detailed definition of the safety approach, to the selection of the corresponding safety options, and to the identification and motivation of the supporting R and D. B) Strategy and roadmap in support of the R and D for future SFRs. This section describes the R and D program led jointly by CEA, EDF, and AREVA, which has been developed with the objectives to be able to preliminarily define, by 2012, the safety orientations for the future SFRs, and to deduce from them the characteristics of the ASTRID prototype. (author)

FALCAO - a relational database to storaging the variables monitored in the research reactor IEA-R1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gomes Neto, Jose; Andrade, Delvonei Alves de

2007-01-01

The objective of this work is to introduce all initial steps for the creation of a relational database, named FALCAO, to support the storaging of the monitored variables in the IEA-R1 research reactor, located in the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares, IPEN-CNEN/SP. As introduction, it is considered the modeling importance of the logic diagram and its direct influence in the integrity of the provided information. It is presented the concepts and steps of normalization and denormalization including the entities and relations involved in the logical model. It is also presented the effects of the model rules in the acquisition, loading and availability of the final information, under the performance concept, since the acquisition process, loads and provides lots of information in small intervals of time. The data logical model, considering the desired performance and the sharing information is also presented. (author)

Automation of the computational programs and codes used in the methodology of neutronic and thermohydraulic calculation for the IEA-R1 nuclear reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stefani, Giovanni Laranjo de

2009-01-01

This work proceeds the elaboration of a computational program for execution of various neutron and thermalhydraulic calculation methodology programs of the IEA-R1-Sao Paulo, Brazil, making the process more practical and safe, besides transforming de output data of each program an automatic process. This reactor is largely used for production of radioisotopes for medical use, material irradiation, personnel training and also for basic research. For that purposes it is necessary to change his core configuration in order to adapt the reactor for different uses. The work will transform various existent programs into subroutines of a principal program, i.e.,a program which call each of the programs automatically when necessary, and create another programs for manipulation the output data and therefore making practical the process

Trends on R and D of the innovative nuclear reactors in Japan

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kinoshita, Izumi

2002-01-01

In Japan, since LWRs introduced from U.S.A. began their business operations one by one from 1970 and 1971, their scale-up were carried out, to reach, at present, a condition on developments of ABWR-2 of 1700 MW class in output and APWR+. They are on a line of large scale LWR development aiming at further upgrading of their economical efficiency, safety, operability and maintenance by improving and developing conventional reactors. On the other hand, an innovative small scale reactor capable of siting at proximity of its markets and flexibly responsible to needs, a low decelerated spectrum reactor intending to effectively use the resources, an super-critical pressure reactor aiming at upgrading of thermal efficiency, a high temperature gas reactor aiming at hydrogen production using nuclear heat , and so on, and so forth, are investigated at a number of institutes. And, on the fast breeder reactor, some innovative investigations such as small-scale reactor, reactor using coolant except metal sodium, and so on, in addition to development of sodium cooling large-scale reactor, under the 'Actual use strategy survey research' progressed at a center of the Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Institute, are promoted. Here were outlined on trends of R and D on various innovative reactors under classification of water cooling reactor, gas cooling reactor, and liquid metal cooling reactor. (G.K.)

Calibration of SPND/Rhodium device for mapping the neutron fluence in the IEA-R1 reactor by means of the activation foil method; Calibracao de um dispositivo de mapeamento de fluxo de neutrons - SNPD/Rodio no reator IEA-R1, por meio do metodo de ativacao de folhas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ricci Filho, Walter; Dias, Mauro S.; Tondin, Julio B.M.; Koskinas, Marina F. [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2002-07-01

The IEA-R1 reactor has undergone a modernization to increase its operating power to 5 MW, in order to allow a more efficient production of radioisotopes. The objective of this work is to provide the reactor with flux monitoring device using a rhodium Self-Powered Neutron Detector (SPND). The work presents the results obtained with Rhodium-SPND in several irradiation positions inside the reactor core. A calibration procedure has been performed by means of {sup 197} Au activation foils, with and without cadmium cover, in order do measure the thermal and epithermal neutron fluxes. (author)

Project, installation and operational tests of a pneumatic system for the IEA-R1 reactor materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fernando, Alberto de Jesus; Madi Filho, Tufic

2009-01-01

Pneumatic Transfer Systems (PTS) are equipment broadly and world widely used for the transport, movement and transfer of diverse types of materials, objects and cargo between two or more environments, near or distant from each other [1]. Due to their flexibility and quickness, the system application is present in several areas, such as medicine (hospitals and clinic analyses laboratories); industry (automobile, metallurgy, iron-making. chemical, food production) commerce (gasoline stations, cinemas, supermarkets, banks, tolls, on-line commerce, casinos); public service (public institutions, courts). In the nuclear field, the PTS has, also, a vast application, highlighting its use in the radioisotope and radiopharmaceuticals of short half life production, such as 67 Ga, 201 Tl, 18F and 123 I-ultra pure. The development of this work is directed to the application of the Pneumatic Transfer System in transport and transfer of materials that will be irradiated in the IEA-R1 reactor, located in the Institute of Energetic and Nuclear Research, IPEN/CNEN-SP, for application of the Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA). (author)

Comparison of ASTEC 1.3 and ASTEC 1.3 R2 calculations in case of SBO for VVER-1000 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Atanasova, B.; Stefanova, A.; Grudev, P.

2009-01-01

The report presents the results from severe accident analyses performed with the both versions of ASTEC v1.3 and ASTEC v1.3R2 computer code for a VVER 1000 type of reactor. The purpose of this analysis is to assess the progress of ASTEC code modeling of main phenomena arising during hypothetical severe accidents. The final target of these analyses is to estimate the behaviour of the ASTEC code, its capability for simulation of severe accidents, including safety systems and Severe Accident Management (SAM) procedures. The analyses have been performed assuming a station blackout with simultaneous loss of HPIS, LPIS (ECCSs), EFWS and spray system due to failure of DGs. Hydro accumulators are not available. In the calculation it is assumed opening and stuck-open of PRZ relief valves. It has been organized the Fission Products path through the SEMPELL valve. It should be said that this investigation was limited to the 'in-vessel' phase of the sequence; therefore the effect of sprays on containment atmosphere has not been studied. (authors)

Thermal and fast neutron distribution determination in the IPR-R1 reactor core; Levantamento das distribuicoes dos fluxos de neutrons termicos e rapidos no nucleo do reator IPR-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Guimaraes, R R.R.

1985-06-01

The work is aimed at obtaining a physical method for neutron flux distribution determination within the reactor core, in order to analyze the project of power increase in the TRIGA IPR-R1 reactor at the Nuclebras Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN), located in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The experimental process utilizes the neutron activation technique in impurities of stainless steel welding rods 700 mm long, set in acrylic supports. These rods provide simultaneous information on the thermal and fast neutron fluxes through capture and threshold reactions. The process of detection and counting of activation products utilizes a high resolution Ge (Li) detector and a mechanical scanning device, designed and manufactured at CDTN for burn-up measurements of irradiated fuel elements. Besides its simplicity, the method presents the advantage of substituting high purity imported materials by one easily obtained that also furnishes simultaneous information on the thermal and fast neutron fluxes. Furthermore, values for the absolute thermal neutron flux a long the whole core height are obtained. The procedure consists of the assessment of the thermal neutron flux in a fixed point by means of a conventional detector, and then establishing the correspondence of this measurement with the response of the stainless steel rods. (author). 30 refs, 39 figs, 9 tabs.

J-R Fracture Resistance of SA533 Gr.B-Cl.1 Steel for Reactor Pressure Vessel

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yoon, Ji-Hyun; Hong, Seokmin; Lee, Bong-Sang [Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Daejeon (Korea, Republic of)

2016-10-15

A rolled plate might show different mechanical behaviors from a forging, even though they contain same chemical compositions. Furthermore, it is known that the fracture behavior of a rolled plate is very sensitive to material orientation comparing to a forging. In this study, the J-R fracture resistances of SA533 Gr.B-Cl.1 plate were measured at reactor operating temperature and the material orientation sensitivity was discussed. The decrease of fracture resistance of this kind of low alloy steel at an elevated temperature is known as the effect of dynamic strain aging (DSA). It was attributed to that the carbides and grains elongated to primary rolling direction, so that the aspect ratio of carbides and grains in the specimen with T-L orientation is larger. Generally, the hard second phase could take a roll of trigger point of unstable fracture. It is needed that the fracture surfaces of the tested specimens to be examined profoundly.

Study of IPR-R1 dynamics by reactivity random excitations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Roedel, G.

1983-01-01

To demonstrate the viability of the utilization of analitical techniques of neutronic noise, a dynamic model for IPR-R1 reactor from CDTN was developed. This model allows reactivity feedback due to variations of temperature in fuel and coolant [pt

Radiation levels in the poll surface of IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pasqualetto, H.

1978-01-01

A theoretical model for the calculation of the radioactivity level in the pool surface of the research reactor IEA-RI (INSTITUTO DE ENERGIA ATOMICA, BRAZIL) is developed. The radioactivity is caused by radionuclides (Mainly 24 Na and 27 Mg) produced by nuclear reactions of neutrons with: a) oxygen of the water b); gaseous elements dissolved in water (Ar,N); c) structural materials of the fuel can. Considerations about expected radiation level after eventual increase of reactor power from 2 MW to 10 MW are also presented [pt

CFD simulation of IPR-R1 Triga subchannels fluid flow

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Silva, Vitor V.; Santos, A.; Mesquita, Amir Z.; Silva, P.S. da; Pereira, C.

2013-01-01

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) codes have been extensively used in engineering problems, with increasing use in nuclear engineering. One of these computer codes is OpenFOAM. It is freely distributed with source code and offers a great flexibility in simulating particular conditions like those found in many problems in nuclear reactor analysis. The aim of this work is to simulate fluid flow and heat flux in three different configurations of subchannels of IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor using OpenFOAM. The data will be then validated against real experimental data obtained during the operation of the reactor at 100kW. This validation process is fundamental to allow the use of the software and associated model to simulate reactor's operation at different conditions, namely different power e fluid flow velocities. (author)

CFD simulation of IPR-R1 Triga subchannels fluid flow

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Silva, Vitor V.; Santos, A.; Mesquita, Amir Z.; Silva, P.S. da, E-mail: vitors@cdtn.br, E-mail: aacs@cdtn.br, E-mail: amir@cdtn.br, E-mail: psblsg@cdtn.br [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN - MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil); Pereira, C., E-mail: claubia@nuclear.ufmg.br [Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil). Dept. de Engenharia Nuclear

2013-07-01

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) codes have been extensively used in engineering problems, with increasing use in nuclear engineering. One of these computer codes is OpenFOAM. It is freely distributed with source code and offers a great flexibility in simulating particular conditions like those found in many problems in nuclear reactor analysis. The aim of this work is to simulate fluid flow and heat flux in three different configurations of subchannels of IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor using OpenFOAM. The data will be then validated against real experimental data obtained during the operation of the reactor at 100kW. This validation process is fundamental to allow the use of the software and associated model to simulate reactor's operation at different conditions, namely different power e fluid flow velocities. (author)

Remote level radiation monitoring system for the brazilian IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor for routine radiation protection procedures and as a support tool in case of radiological emergency

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cardenas, Jose P.N.; Romero Filho, Christovam R.; Madi Filho, Tufic

2008-01-01

Nuclear facilities must monitoring radiation levels to establish procedures for radiological protection staff involving workers and the public. The Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares - IPEN has 5 important plants and in case of accident in one of them, the Institute keeps operational an Emergency Response Plan (ERP). This document (ERP) is designed to coordinate all procedures to assure safe and secure conditions for workers, environment and the public. One of this plants is the IEA-R1 reactor, it is the oldest nuclear research reactor (pool type) in Latin America, reached it first criticality in September of 1957. The reactor is used 60 hours/week with continuous operation and with nominal power of 3.5 MW, with technical conditions to operate at 5 MW thermal power. This reactor has a Radiological Emergency Plan that establishes the implementation of rules for workers and people living at the exclusion area in the case of an emergency situation. This paper aims to describe the implementation of a computational system developed for remote radiation monitoring, in a continuous schedule of IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor containment building. Results of this action can be used as a support mean in a radiological emergency. All necessary modules for radiation detection, signals conditioners and processing, data acquisition board, software development and computer specifications are described. The data acquisition system operating in the reactor shows readings concerned to radiation environment such as activity, doses and concentration in real time and displays a periodical data bank (Data Base) of this features allowing through the surveillance of the operation records anytime, leading to studies and analysis of radiation levels. Results of this data acquisition are shown by means of computer graphics screens developed for windows environment using Visual Basic software. (author)

Implementation of the optimization for the methodology of the neutronic calculation and thermo-hydraulic in IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stefani, Giovanni Laranjo de; Conti, Thadeu das Neves; Fedorenko, Giuliana G.; Castro, Vinicius A.; Maio, Mireia F.; Santos, Thiago Augusto dos

2011-01-01

This work objective was to create a manager program that would automate the programs and computer codes in use for neutronic calculation and thermo-hydraulic in IEA-R1 reactor thus making the process for calculation of safety parameters and for configuration change up to 98% faster than that used in the reactor today. This process was tested in combination with the reactor operators and is being implemented by the quality department. The main codes and programs involved in the calculations of configuration change are Leopard, Hammier-Technion, Twodb, Citation and Cobra. Calculations of delayed neutron and criticality coefficients given in the process of safety parameters calculation are given by the Hammer-Technion and Citation in a process that involves about eleven repetitions so that it meets all the necessary conditions (such different temperatures of the moderator and fuel). The results are entirely consistent with the expected and absolutely the same as those given by manual process. Thus the work shows its reliability as well the advantage of saving time, once a process that could take up to four hours was turned in one that takes around five minutes when done in a home computer. Much of this advantage is due to the fact that were created subprograms to treat the output of each program used and transform them into the input of the other programs, removing from it the intermediate essential data for this to occur, thus avoiding also a possible human error by handling the various data supplied. (author)

Decommissioning of the Nuclear Reactors R2 and R2-0 at Studsvik, Sweden. General Data as called for under Article 37 of the Euratom Treaty

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

2009-01-15

This document describes the plans for decommissioning of the nuclear research and material test reactors R2 and R2-0, situated at the Studsvik site close to the city of Nykoeping, Sweden. The purpose of the document is to serve as information for the European Commission, and to fulfil the requirements of Article 37 of the Euratom Treaty. Studsvik is situated on the Baltic coast, about 20 km east of Nykoeping and 80 km southwest of Stockholm. The site comprises the reactors R2 and R2-0 and several facilities for material investigation and radioactive waste treatment and storage. The reactors were used for a number of different purposes from 1960 until June 2005, when they were shut down following a decision by the operator. Decommissioning of the reactor facility is planned to be completed in 2016 after dismantling and conditioning of radioactive parts and demolition of the facility. Solid and liquid radioactive wastes from the dismantling activities will be treated and stored on-site awaiting final disposal. The waste treatment facilities, which are situated in other buildings at the Studsvik site, are planned to continue operation during and after the decommissioning of the reactor facility. All nuclear fuel has been transferred to a separate storage facility and is being shipped to the US according to existing agreements. The objective of the planned dismantling activities is to achieve clearance of the facility to make it possible to either demolish the buildings or use them for other purposes. The operator has divided the planning for dismantling and demolition of the facility into three phases [1]: Dismantling 1, including primary system decontamination, dismantling of the reactors with systems in the reactor pool, draining, cleaning and temporary covering of the reactor pool. This phase has begun and is due to last till approximately December 2009. Dismantling 2, including dismantling of systems in the reactor facility, removal of equipment, radiological

Decommissioning of the Nuclear Reactors R2 and R2-0 at Studsvik, Sweden. General Data as called for under Article 37 of the Euratom Treaty

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2009-01-01

This document describes the plans for decommissioning of the nuclear research and material test reactors R2 and R2-0, situated at the Studsvik site close to the city of Nykoeping, Sweden. The purpose of the document is to serve as information for the European Commission, and to fulfil the requirements of Article 37 of the Euratom Treaty. Studsvik is situated on the Baltic coast, about 20 km east of Nykoeping and 80 km southwest of Stockholm. The site comprises the reactors R2 and R2-0 and several facilities for material investigation and radioactive waste treatment and storage. The reactors were used for a number of different purposes from 1960 until June 2005, when they were shut down following a decision by the operator. Decommissioning of the reactor facility is planned to be completed in 2016 after dismantling and conditioning of radioactive parts and demolition of the facility. Solid and liquid radioactive wastes from the dismantling activities will be treated and stored on-site awaiting final disposal. The waste treatment facilities, which are situated in other buildings at the Studsvik site, are planned to continue operation during and after the decommissioning of the reactor facility. All nuclear fuel has been transferred to a separate storage facility and is being shipped to the US according to existing agreements. The objective of the planned dismantling activities is to achieve clearance of the facility to make it possible to either demolish the buildings or use them for other purposes. The operator has divided the planning for dismantling and demolition of the facility into three phases [1]: Dismantling 1, including primary system decontamination, dismantling of the reactors with systems in the reactor pool, draining, cleaning and temporary covering of the reactor pool. This phase has begun and is due to last till approximately December 2009. Dismantling 2, including dismantling of systems in the reactor facility, removal of equipment, radiological

The FRJ 1 reactor (MERLIN) at Juelich, F.R. Germany and associated hot cell facilities. Information sheets

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hardt, P. von der; Roettger, H.

1981-01-01

Technical information is given on the FRJ 1 reactor and associated hot cell facilities, with the main emphasis on experimental irradiation facilities, specialized irradiation devices (loops and capsules) and possibilities for post-irradiation examinations of samples. The information is presented in the form of eight information sheets under the headings: main characteristics of the reactor; utilization and specialization of the reactor; experimental facilities; neutron spectra; main characteristics of specialized irradiation devices; main characteristics of hot cell facilities; equipment and techniques available for post-irradiation examinations; utilization and specialization of the hot cell facilities

An approach to estimate the reactivity worth of R-5 poison tube system and experimental verification in ZERLINA reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Khosla, S.K.; Paul, O.P.K.; Sengupta, S.N.

1976-01-01

It is proposed to employ a liquid poison injection system as an emergency shut down device for R-5 reactor. The liquid poison consists of gadolinium nitrate solution, which is injected into twenty poison tubes made of zircaloy that are located in between the regular lattice positions in R-5 reactor. The calculational model adopted to estimate the reactivity worth of the poison tubes so as to hold the reactor subcritical by 50 mk at full tank, is described. Similar reactivity estimates have also been carried out for R-5 poison tubes installed in Zerlina reactor in order to assess the adequacy of the calculational mode. The results of the calculations are compared with experimental values for single poison tubes. (author)

IEA-R1 primary and secondary coolant piping systems coupled stress analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fainer, Gerson; Faloppa, Altair A.; Oliveira, Carlos A.; Mattar Neto, Miguel

2013-01-01

The aim of this work is to perform the stress analysis of a coupled primary and secondary piping system of the IEA-R1 based on tridimensional model, taking into account the as built conditions. The nuclear research reactor IEA-R1 is a pool type reactor projected by Babcox-Willcox, which is operated by IPEN since 1957. The operation to 5 MW power limit was only possible after the conduction of life management and modernization programs in the last two decades. In these programs the components of the coolant systems, which are responsible for the water circulation into the reactor core to remove the heat generated inside it, were almost totally refurbished. The changes in the primary and secondary systems, mainly the replacement of pump and heat-exchanger, implied in piping layout modifications, and, therefore, the stress condition of the piping systems had to be reanalyzed. In this paper the structural stress assessment of the coupled primary and secondary piping systems is presented and the final results are discussed. (author)

Neutronic calculations in core conversion of the IAN-R1 research reactor from MTR HEU to TRIGA LEU fuel

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sarta Fuentes, Jose A.; Castiblanco, L.A.

2003-01-01

With cooperation of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), neutronic calculations were carried out for conversion of the Ian-R1 Reactor from MTR-HEU fuel to TRIGA-LEU fuel. In order to establish a staff for neutronic calculation at the Instituto de Cancan's Nucleares y Energia s Alternatives (INEA) a program was established. This program included training, acquisition of hardware, software and calculation for the core with MTR-HEU fuel , enriched nominally to 93% and calculation for several arrangements with the TRIGA-LEU fuel, enriched to 19.7%. The results were verified and compared with several groups of calculation at the Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares (ININ) in Mexico, and General Atomics (GA) in United States. As a result of this program, several technical reports have been wrote. (author)

Status of the R and D activities on fast reactors and ADS in Brazil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maiorino, Jose Rubens

2001-01-01

Research and Development in Nuclear Science and Technology is conducted by Research Institutes of the Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission. In Fast Reactor, R and D activities started in the sixties, and in 1972 a small Na loop (100 kW) was constructed. At the same time, during the seventies at IPEN, research in cooperation with GA for Gas Cooled Fast Breeder Reactor was conducted. The motivation of such research was Thorium Fuel Cycle. As a result of this research a Helium Loop was constructed and a Split Table Critical Assembly (ZPR) was designed. During the eighties, an agreement with ANSALDO-NIRA resulted in an acquisition of a Sodium Loop for Thermohydraulics studies, however it never had been assembled. At the same time, a concept of a Binary Breeder Reactor using two cycles, Th and U, was developed. During the nineties, a National Program to conduct R and D (pyroprocess; U-Zr Metallic Fuel; HT-9; Electromagnetic Pump; and a conceptual design of a Experimental Reactor (60/20 MWth/MWe)) was proposed, however it was closed at the end of the decade. Now, only academic research is being conducted, and it is summarized in this report. Basically, they are: an integral lead fast reactor concept for developing countries, and an alternative concept for a fast energy amplifier accelerator driven system. The first is an combination of best characteristics of the American Integral Fast Reactor and the Russian Lead Cooled Reactor. The second is a conceptual design of ADS helium cooled imbedded in a solid lead subcritical array of fuel, using more than one point of spallation trying to reduce the requirement for energy and current of the accelerator

Development and implementation of a new pneumatic transfer system for materials irradiation at IEA-R1 reactor; Desenvolvimento e implementacao de um novo sistema pneumatico de transferencia para irradiacao de materiais no reator IEA-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fernando, Alberto de Jesus

2011-07-01

Pneumatic Transfer Systems (PTS) are classified as mechanical equipment largely operated all over the world for transport of a huge sort of objects, samples and materials located at nearly terminals or even at separated ones. System applicability is often recognized in many activities, such as medicine (hospital settings, clinical analysis labs), industry (steel, automobiles, mining, chemical, food, construction), trading (gas station, movies, supermarkets, banks, e-commerce) and federal agencies (post services, federal courts, public enterprises). In the nuclear settings, PTS shows also a vast array of applications, being a part of radioisotope production, as well as short-lived radiopharmaceuticals, including 67 Ga, 201 Tl, 18 F and 123 I-ultra pure. Besides, PTS are also used at radioactive waste management plants and research institutes that apply neutron activation analysis (NAA). This work was directed toward the design and operation of a new PTS for the IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor settled at Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN) for NAA application. With this aim, it was calculated the charge of reactor core grid plate and sample transport testing. Neutron flux at irradiating position was determined as 3,70 {+-} 0,26 10{sup 12} n cm{sup -2} s{sup -1}. (author)

77 FR 26321 - Reed College, Reed Research Nuclear Reactor, Renewed Facility Operating License No. R-112

Science.gov (United States)

2012-05-03

... Nuclear Reactor, Renewed Facility Operating License No. R-112 AGENCY: Nuclear Regulatory Commission... Commission (NRC or the Commission) has issued renewed Facility Operating License No. R- 112, held by Reed... License No. R-112 will expire 20 years from its date of issuance. The renewed facility operating license...

Compact torsatron reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lyon, J.F.; Carreras, B.A.; Lynch, V.E.; Tolliver, J.S.; Sviatoslavsky, I.N.

1988-05-01

Low-aspect-ratio torsatron configurations could lead to compact stellarator reactors with R 0 = 8--11m, roughly one-half to one-third the size of more conventional stellarator reactor designs. Minimum-size torsatron reactors are found using various assumptions. Their size is relatively insensitive to the choice of the conductor parameters and depends mostly on geometrical constraints. The smallest size is obtained by eliminating the tritium breeding blanket under the helical winding on the inboard side and by reducing the radial depth of the superconducting coil. Engineering design issues and reactor performance are examined for three examples to illustrate the feasibility of this approach for compact reactors and for a medium-size (R 0 ≅ 4 m,/bar a/ /approx lt/ 1 m) copper-coil ignition experiment. 26 refs., 11 figs., 7 tabs

R and D programme on generation IV nuclear energy systems: the high temperatures gas-cooled reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Carre, F.; Fiorini, G.L.; Billot, P.; Anzieu, P.; Brossard, P.

2005-01-01

The Generation IV Technology Roadmap selected, among others, a sequenced development of advanced high temperature gas cooled reactors as one of the main focus for R and D on future nuclear energy systems. The selection of this research objective originates both from the significance of high temperature and fast neutrons for nuclear energy to meet the needs for a sustainable development for the medium-long term (2020/2030 and beyond), and from the significant common R and D pathway that supports both medium term industrial projects and more advanced versions of gas cooled reactors. The first step of the 'Gas Technology Path' aims to support the development of a modular HTR to meet specific international market needs around 2020. The second step is a Very High Temperature Reactor - VHTR (>950 C) - to efficiently produce hydrogen through thermo-chemical or electro-chemical water splitting or to generate electricity with an efficiency above 50%, among other applications of high temperature nuclear heat. The third step of the Path is a Gas Fast Reactor - GFR - that features a fast-spectrum helium-cooled reactor and closed fuel cycle, with a direct or indirect thermodynamic cycle for electricity production and full recycle of actinides. Hydrogen production is also considered for the GFR. The paper succinctly presents the R and D program currently under definition and partially launched within the Generation IV International Forum on this consistent set of advanced gas cooled nuclear systems. (orig.)

R-102, 1 Group Space-Independent Inverse Reactor Kinetics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kaganove, J.J.

1966-01-01

1 - Description of problem or function: Given the space-independent, one energy group reactor kinetics equations and the initial conditions, this program determines the time variation of reactivity required to produce the given input of flux-time data. 2 - Method of solution: Time derivatives of neutron density are obtained by application of (a) five-point quartic, (b) three-point parabolic, (c) five-point least-mean-square cubic, (d) five-point least-mean-square parabolic, or (e) five-point least-mean-square linear formulae to the neutron density or to the natural logarithm of the neutron density. Between each data point the neutron density is assumed to be (a) exponential*(third-order polynomial), (b) exponential, or (c) linear. Changes in reactivity between data points are obtained algebraically from the kinetics equations, neutron density derivatives, and the algebraic representation of neutron density. First and second time derivatives of the reactivity are obtained by use of any of the formulae applicable to the neutron density. 3 - Restrictions on the complexity of the problem: Maxima of - 50 delay groups; 1000 data points; 99 data blocks (A data block is a sequence of input points characterized by a fixed time-interval between points, a smoothing option, and a number of repetitions of the smoothing option)

Plutonium Recycle Test Reactor (PRTR). Operating Experience and Supporting R and D, Its Application to Heavy-Water Power Reactor Design and Operation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Harty, H. [Battelle Memorial Institute, Pacific Northwest Laboratories, Richland, WA (United States)

1968-04-15

Convincing answers to questions about heavy-water, pressure-tube, power reactors, e.g. pressure-tube serviceability, heavy-water management problems, long-term behaviour of special pressure-tube reactor components, and unique operating maintenance problems (compared to light-water reactors) must be based on actual operating experience with that type of reactor. PRTR operating experience and supporting R and D studies, although not always simple extrapolations to power reactors, can be summarized in a context applicable to future heavy-water power reactors, as follows: 1. Pressure-tube life, in a practical case, need not be limited by creep, gross hydriding, corrosion, or mechanical damage. The possibility that growth of a defect (perhaps service-induced) to a size that is critical under certain operating conditions, remains a primary unknown in pressure- tube life extrapolations. A pressure-tube failure in PRTR (combined with gross release of fuel material) proved only slightly more inconvenient, time consuming, and damaging to the reactor proper, than occurred with a gross failure of a fuel element in PRTR. 2. Routine operating losses of heavy water appear tractable in heavy-water-cooled power reactors; losses from low-pressure systems can be insignificant over the life of a plant. Non-routine losses may prove to be the largest component of loss over the life of a plant. 3. The performance of special components in PRTR, e.g. the calandria and shields, has not deteriorated despite being subjected to non-standard operating conditions. The calandria now contains a light-water reflector with single barrier separation from the heavy-water moderator. The carbon steel shields (containing carbon steel shot) show no deterioration based on pressure drop measurements and piping activation immediately outside the shields. The helium pressurization system (for primary coolant pressurization) remains a high maintenance system, and cannot be recommended for power reactors, based

Qualification process of dispersion fuels in the IEAR1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Domingos, D.B.; Silva, A.T.; Silva, J.E.R.

2010-01-01

Neutronic, thermal-hydraulics and accident analysis calculations were developed to estimate the safety of a miniplate irradiation device (MID) to be placed in the IEA-R1 reactor core. The irradiation device will be used to receive miniplates of U 3 O 8 -Al and U 3 Si 2 -Al dispersion fuels, LEU type (19,9% of 235 U) with uranium densities of, respectively, 3.0 gU/cm 3 and 4.8 gU/cm 3 . The fuel miniplates will be irradiated to nominal 235 U burnup levels of 50% and 80%, in order to qualify the above high-density dispersion fuels to be used in the Brazilian Multipurpose Reactor (RMB), now in the conception phase. For the neutronic calculation, the computer codes CITATION and TWODB were utilized. The computer code FLOW was used to calculate the coolant flow rate in the irradiation device, allowing the determination of the fuel miniplate temperatures with the computer model MTRCR-IEA-R1. A postulated Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA) was analyzed with the computer code LOSS and TEMPLOCA, allowing the calculation of the fuel miniplate temperatures after the reactor pool draining. This paper also presents a system designed for fuel swelling evaluation. The determination of the fuel swelling will be performed by means of the fuel miniplate thickness measurements along the irradiation time. (author)

77 FR 68155 - The Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute TRIGA Reactor: Facility Operating License No. R-84

Science.gov (United States)

2012-11-15

... Research Institute TRIGA Reactor: Facility Operating License No. R-84 AGENCY: Nuclear Regulatory Commission... considering an application for the renewal of Facility Operating License No. R-84 (Application), which... the renewal of Facility Operating License No. R-84, which currently authorizes the licensee to operate...

Development of an artificial neural network for monitoring and diagnosis of sensor fault and detection in the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bueno, Elaine Inacio

2007-01-01

The increasing demand on quality in production processes has encouraged the development of several studies on Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems in industrial plant, where the interruption of the production due to some unexpected change can bring risk to the operator's security besides provoking economic losses, increasing the costs to repair some damaged equipment. Because of these two points, the economic losses and the operator's security, it becomes necessary to implement Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems. In this work a Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems was developed based on the Artificial Neural Networks methodology. This methodology was applied to the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN. The development of this system was divided in three stages: the first was dedicated to monitoring, the second to the detection and the third to diagnosis of failures. In the first stage, several Artificial Neural Networks were trained to monitor the temperature variables, nuclear power and dose rate. Two databases were used: one with data generated by a theoretical model and another one with data to a typical week of operation of the IEA-R1 reactor. In the second stage, the neural networks used to monitor the variables were tested with a fault database. The faults were inserted artificially in the sensors signals. As the value of the maximum calibration error for special thermocouples couples is ± 0,5 deg C, it had been inserted faults of ±1 deg C in the sensor for the reading of the variables T3 and T4. In the third stage was developed a Fuzzy System to carry out the faults diagnosis, where were considered three conditions: a normal condition, a fault of -1 deg C , and a fault of +1 deg C . This system will indicate which thermocouple is faulty. (author)

Development of an artificial neural network for monitoring and diagnosis of sensor fault and detection in the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bueno, Elaine Inacio [Centro Federal de Educacao Tecnologica de Sao Paulo (CEFET/SP), Guarulhos, SP (Brazil). Unidade Guarulhos]. E-mail: ebueno@cefetsp.br; Ting, Daniel Kao Sun; Goncalves, Iraci M.P. [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)]. E-mails: dksting@ipen.br; martinez@ipen.br

2007-07-01

The increasing demand on quality in production processes has encouraged the development of several studies on Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems in industrial plant, where the interruption of the production due to some unexpected change can bring risk to the operator's security besides provoking economic losses, increasing the costs to repair some damaged equipment. Because of these two points, the economic losses and the operator's security, it becomes necessary to implement Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems. In this work a Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems was developed based on the Artificial Neural Networks methodology. This methodology was applied to the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN. The development of this system was divided in three stages: the first was dedicated to monitoring, the second to the detection and the third to diagnosis of failures. In the first stage, several Artificial Neural Networks were trained to monitor the temperature variables, nuclear power and dose rate. Two databases were used: one with data generated by a theoretical model and another one with data to a typical week of operation of the IEA-R1 reactor. In the second stage, the neural networks used to monitor the variables were tested with a fault database. The faults were inserted artificially in the sensors signals. As the value of the maximum calibration error for special thermocouples couples is {+-} 0,5 deg C, it had been inserted faults of {+-}1 deg C in the sensor for the reading of the variables T3 and T4. In the third stage was developed a Fuzzy System to carry out the faults diagnosis, where were considered three conditions: a normal condition, a fault of -1 deg C , and a fault of +1 deg C . This system will indicate which thermocouple is faulty. (author)

Study of dietary supplements compositions by neutron activation analysis at the VR-1 training reactor

Science.gov (United States)

Stefanik, Milan; Rataj, Jan; Huml, Ondrej; Sklenka, Lubomir

2017-11-01

The VR-1 training reactor operated by the Czech Technical University in Prague is utilized mainly for education of students and training of various reactor staff; however, R&D is also carried out at the reactor. The experimental instrumentation of the reactor can be used for the irradiation experiments and neutron activation analysis. In this paper, the neutron activation analysis (NAA) is used for a study of dietary supplements containing the zinc (one of the essential trace elements for the human body). This analysis includes the dietary supplement pills of different brands; each brand is represented by several different batches of pills. All pills were irradiated together with the standard activation etalons in the vertical channel of the VR-1 reactor at the nominal power (80 W). Activated samples were investigated by the nuclear gamma-ray spectrometry technique employing the semiconductor HPGe detector. From resulting saturated activities, the amount of mineral element (Zn) in the pills was determined using the comparative NAA method. The results show clearly that the VR-1 training reactor is utilizable for neutron activation analysis experiments.

2-DB, 2-D Multigroup Diffusion, X-Y, R-Theta, Hexagonal Geometry Fast Reactor, Criticality Search

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Little, W.W. Jr.; Hardie, R.W.; Hirons, T.J.; O'Dell, R.D.

1969-01-01

1 - Description of problem or function: 2DB is a flexible, two- dimensional (x-y, r-z, r-theta, hex geometry) diffusion code for use in fast reactor analyses. The code can be used to: (a) Compute fuel burnup using a flexible material shuffling scheme. (b) Perform criticality searches on time absorption (alpha), material concentrations, and region dimensions using a regular or adjoint model. Criticality searches can be performed during burnup to compensate for fuel depletion. (c) Compute flux distributions for an arbitrary extraneous source. 2 - Method of solution: Standard source-iteration techniques are used. Group re-balancing and successive over-relaxation with line inversion are used to accelerate convergence. Material burnup is by reactor zone. The burnup rate is determined by the zone and energy (group) averaged cross sections which are recomputed after each time-step. The isotopic chains, which can contain any number of isotopes, are formed by the user. The code does not contain built-in or internal chains. 3 - Restrictions on the complexity of the problem: Since variable dimensioning is employed, no simple bounds can be stated. The current 1108 version, however, is nominally restricted to 50 energy groups in a 65 K memory. In the 6600 version the power fraction, average burnup rate, and breeding ratio calculations are limited to reactors with a maximum of 50 zones

Microstructure in Zircaloy Creep Tested in the R2 Reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pettersson, Kjell

2004-12-01

Tubular specimens of Zircaloy-4 have been creep tested in bending in the R2 reactor in Studsvik. The creep deformation in the reactor core is accelerated in comparison with creep deformation outside the reactor core. The possible mechanisms behind this behaviour are described briefly. In order to determine which the actual mechanism is, the microstructure of the material creep tested in the R2 reactor has been examined by transmission electron microscopy. Due to the bending, material subjected to both tensile and compressive stress during creep was available. Since some of the proposed mechanisms might give microstructures which are different when the material is subjected to compressive or tensile stress it was assumed that examination of both types of material would give valuable information with regard to the operating mechanism. The result of the examination was that in the as-irradiated condition there were no obvious differences detected between materials which had been deformed in tension or compression. After a heat treatment to coarsen the irradiation induced microstructure there were still no significant differences between the two types of material. However it was now observed that in addition to dislocation loops the microstructure also contained network dislocations which presumably had been invisible in the electron microscope before heat treatment due to the high density of small dislocation loops in this state. It is therefore concluded that the most probable mechanism for irradiation creep in this case is climb and glide of the network dislocations. The role of irradiation is two-fold: It accelerates climb due to the production of point defects of which more interstitials than vacancies arrive to the network dislocations stopped at an obstacles. This leads to a net climb after which a dislocation is released from the obstacle and an amount of glide takes place. The second effect is the production of loops which serve as an increasing density of

R and D status of an integral type small reactor MRX in JAERI

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hoshi, Tsutao; Ochiai, Masaaki; Iida, Hiromasa; Yamaji, Akio; Shimazaki, Junya

1995-01-01

JAERI is conducting a design study on an integral type small reactor MRX for the use of nuclear ships. The basic concept of the reactor system is the integral type reactor with in-vessel steam generators and control rod drive systems, however, such new technologies as the water-filled containment, the passive decay heat removal system, the advanced automatic system, etc., are adopted to satisfy the essential requirements for the next generation ship reactors, i.e. compact, light, highly safe and easy operation. Research and development (R and D) works have being progressed on the peculiar components, the advanced automatic operation systems and the safety study of the thermal hydraulic phenomena as well as the feasibility study of the applicability to merchant ships. The experiments and analysis of the safety carried out so far are proving that the passive safety features applied into the MRX are sufficient functions in the safety point of view. The MRX is a typical small type reactor realizing the easy operation by simplifying the reactor systems adopting the passive safety systems, therefore, it has wide variety of use as energy supply systems. This paper summarizes the present status on the design study of the MRX and the research and development activities as well as the results of feasibility study. (author)

Optimization of the irradiation beam in the BNCT research facility at IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Castro, Vinicius Alexandre de

2014-01-01

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a radiotherapeutic technique for the treatment of some types of cancer whose useful energy comes from a nuclear reaction that occurs when thermal neutron impinges upon a Boron-10 atom. In Brazil there is a research facility built along the beam hole number 3 of the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN, which was designed to perform BNCT research experiments. For a good performance of the technique, the irradiation beam should be mostly composed of thermal neutrons with a minimum as possible gamma and above thermal neutron components. This work aims to monitor and evaluate the irradiation beam on the sample irradiation position through the use of activation detectors (activation foils) and also to propose, through simulation using the radiation transport code, MCNP, new sets of moderators and filters which shall deliver better irradiation fields at the irradiation sample position In this work, a simulation methodology, based on a MCNP card, known as wwg (weight window generation) was studied, and the neutron energy spectrum has been experimentally discriminated at 5 energy ranges by using a new set o activation foils. It also has been concluded that the BNCT research facility has the required thermal neutron flux to perform studies in the area and it has a great potential for improvement for tailoring the irradiation field. (author)

Present status and future perspective of R and D on lead heavy metal-cooled fast reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Takahashi, Minoru

2007-01-01

Since a lead heavy metal (lead-bismuth eutectic) is chemically inert and has higher boiling point compared to a sodium, a lead heavy metal-cooled fast reactor can be inherently safe and has good nuclear characteristics and is so suitable to a medium-small size of the reactor. R and D on corrosion of a lead heavy metal has been carried out in the world and this issue might be solved to choose specific corrosion resistant alloys for structural materials and fuel cans of a lead heavy metal-cooled reactor. This article reviews present status and future perspective on lead heavy metal-cooled fast reactors. (T. Tanaka)

Training courses at VR-1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sklenka, L.; Kropik, M.

2006-01-01

This paper describes one of the main purposes of the VR-1 training reactor utilization - i.e. extensive educational program. The educational program is intended for the training of university students and selected nuclear power plant personnel. The training courses provide them experience in reactor and neutron physics, dosimetry, nuclear safety and operation of nuclear facilities. At present, the training course participants can go through more than 20 standard experimental exercises; particular exercises for special training can be prepared. Approximately 200 university students become familiar with the reactor (lectures, experiments, experimental and diploma works, etc.) every year. About 12 different faculties from Czech universities use the reactor. International co-operation with European universities in Germany, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, Holland and UK is frequent. The VR-1 reactor takes also part in Eugene Wigner Course on Reactor Physics Experiments in the framework of European Nuclear Educational Network (ENEN) association. Recently, training courses for Bulgarian research reactor specialists supported by IAEA were carried out. An attractive program including demonstration of reactor operation is prepared also for high school students. Every year, more than 1500 high school students come to visit the reactor, as do many foreigner visitors. (author)

Eddy current examination of the nuclear fuel elements with aluminum 1100-F cladding of IPR-R1 research reactor: An initial study

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Silva, Roger F. da; Silva Júnior, Silvério F. da; Frade, Rangel T.; Rodrigues, Juliano S.

2017-01-01

Tubes of aluminum 1100-F as well as tubes of AISI 304 stainless steel are used as cladding of the fuel elements of TRIGA IPR-R1 nuclear research reactor. Usually, these tubes are inspected by means of visual test and sipping test. The visual test allows the detection of changes occurred at the external fuel elements surface, such as those promoted by corrosion processes. However, this test method cannot be used for detection of internal discontinuities at the tube walls. Sipping test allows the detection of fuel elements whose cladding has failed, but it is not able to determine the place where the discontinuity is located. On the other hand, eddy current testing, an electromagnetic nondestructive test method, allows the detection of discontinuities and monitoring their growth. In previous works, the application of eddy current testing to evaluate the AISI 304 cladding fuel elements of TRIGA IPR-R1 was studied. In this paper, it is proposed an initial study about the use of eddy current testing for detection and characterization of discontinuities in the aluminum 1100-F fuel elements cladding. The study includes the development of probes and the design and manufacture of reference standards. (author)

Eddy current examination of the nuclear fuel elements with aluminum 1100-F cladding of IPR-R1 research reactor: An initial study

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Silva, Roger F. da; Silva Júnior, Silvério F. da; Frade, Rangel T. [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nucelar (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil); Rodrigues, Juliano S., E-mail: rfs@cdtn.br, E-mail: silvasf@cdtn.br, E-mail: rtf@cdtn.br [Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2017-07-01

Tubes of aluminum 1100-F as well as tubes of AISI 304 stainless steel are used as cladding of the fuel elements of TRIGA IPR-R1 nuclear research reactor. Usually, these tubes are inspected by means of visual test and sipping test. The visual test allows the detection of changes occurred at the external fuel elements surface, such as those promoted by corrosion processes. However, this test method cannot be used for detection of internal discontinuities at the tube walls. Sipping test allows the detection of fuel elements whose cladding has failed, but it is not able to determine the place where the discontinuity is located. On the other hand, eddy current testing, an electromagnetic nondestructive test method, allows the detection of discontinuities and monitoring their growth. In previous works, the application of eddy current testing to evaluate the AISI 304 cladding fuel elements of TRIGA IPR-R1 was studied. In this paper, it is proposed an initial study about the use of eddy current testing for detection and characterization of discontinuities in the aluminum 1100-F fuel elements cladding. The study includes the development of probes and the design and manufacture of reference standards. (author)

Sipping test update device for fuel elements cladding inspections in IPR-r1 TRIGA reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rodrigues, R.R.; Mesquita, A.Z.; Andrade, E.P.D.; Gual, Maritza R., E-mail: rrr@cdtn.br, E-mail: amir@cdtn.br, E-mail: edson@cdtn.br, E-mail: maritzargual@gmail.com [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2015-07-01

It is in progress at the Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear - CDTN (Nuclear Technology Development Center), a research project that aims to investigate possible leaks in the fuel elements of the TRIGA reactor, located in this research center. This paper presents the final form of sipping test device for TRIGA reactor, and results of the first experiments setup. Mechanical support strength tests were made by knotting device on the crane, charged with water from the conventional water supply, and tests outside the reactor pool with the use of new non-irradiated fuel elements encapsulated in stainless steel, and available safe stored in this unit. It is expected that tests with graphite elements from reactor pool are done soon after and also the test experiment with the first fuel elements in service positioned in the B ring (central ring) of the reactor core in the coming months. (author)

Sipping test update device for fuel elements cladding inspections in IPR-r1 TRIGA reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rodrigues, R.R.; Mesquita, A.Z.; Andrade, E.P.D.; Gual, Maritza R.

2015-01-01

It is in progress at the Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear - CDTN (Nuclear Technology Development Center), a research project that aims to investigate possible leaks in the fuel elements of the TRIGA reactor, located in this research center. This paper presents the final form of sipping test device for TRIGA reactor, and results of the first experiments setup. Mechanical support strength tests were made by knotting device on the crane, charged with water from the conventional water supply, and tests outside the reactor pool with the use of new non-irradiated fuel elements encapsulated in stainless steel, and available safe stored in this unit. It is expected that tests with graphite elements from reactor pool are done soon after and also the test experiment with the first fuel elements in service positioned in the B ring (central ring) of the reactor core in the coming months. (author)

Current status of the Thai Research Reactor (TRR-1/M1)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chueinta, Siripone; Julanan, Mongkol; Charncanchee, Decharchai

2006-01-01

The first Thai Research Reactor, TRR-1 went critical on 27 October 1962 at the maximum power of 1 MW. It was located at Office of Atoms for Peace (OAP) in Bangkok. Since then, TRR-1 was continuously operated and eventually shut down in 1975. Plate type, high-enriched uranium (HEU) and U 3 O 8 A1 cladding were used as the reactor fuel. Light water was used as moderator and coolant as well. In 1975, because of the problem from fuel supplier and also to supporting the Treaty of Non Proliferation of Nuclear Weapon or NPT, TRR-1 was shut down for modification. The reactor core and control system were disassembled and replaced by TRIGA Mark III. A new core was a hexagonal core shape designed by General Atomics (GA). Afterwards, TRR-1 was officially renamed to the Thai Research Reactor-1/Modification 1 (TRR-1/M1). TRR-1/M1 is a multipurpose swimming pool type reactor with nominal power of 2 MW. The TRR-1/M1 uses uranium enriched at 20% in U-235 (LEU) and ZrH alloy as fuel. Light water is also used as coolant and moderator. At present, the reactor is operating with core No.14. The reactor has been serving for various kinds of utilization namely, radioisotope production, neutron activation analysis, beam experiments and reactor physics experiments. (author)

Méthodologie de l'extrapolation des réacteurs chimiques Methodology for Scaling Up Chemical Reactors

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Trambouze P.

2006-11-01

Full Text Available Après un exposé général relatif à la méthodologie du développement des procédés, applicable à l'extrapolation des réacteurs, est présenté un rapide examen critique des deux principales techniques mises en oeuvre, à savoir : - la théorie de la similitude ; - l'élaboration de modèles mathématiques. Deux exemples pratiques, relatifs aux réacteurs homogènes et aux réacteurs catalytiques à lit fixe et deux phases fluides, sont ensuite examinés à la lumière des considérations générales précédentes. After giving a general description of process-development methodology applicable to scaling up reactors, this article makes a quick critical examination of the two main techniques involved, i. e. : (a the theory of similarity, and (b the compiling of mathematical models. Two practical examples relating to homogeneous reactors and trickle-bed catalytic reactors are then examined in the light of the preceding general considerations.

Annual report on JEN-1 reactor; Informe periodico del Reactor JEN-1 correspondiente al ano 1971

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Montes, J

1972-07-01

In the annual report on the JEN-1 reactor the main features of the reactor operations and maintenance are described. The reactor has been critical for 1831 hours, what means 65,8% of the total working time. Maintenance and pool water contamination have occupied the rest of the time. The maintenance schedule is shown in detail according to three subjects. The main failures and reactor scrams are also described. The daily maximum values of the water activity are given so as the activity of the air in the reactor hall. (Author)

Annual report of department of research reactors, 2001. April 1, 2001 - March 31, 2002

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

2002-12-01

The Department of Research Reactor is responsible for the operation, maintenance, utilization of the JRR-3 and the JRR-4 and for the related R and D. Besides RI production including its R and D are carried out. This report describes the activities of the department in fiscal year of 2001 and it also includes some of the technical topics on the works mentioned above. As for the research reactors, we carried out the operation, maintenance, the utilization of irradiation and neutron beam experiments, technical management including fuels and water chemistry, radiation monitoring as related R and D works. RI production and its R and D works were conducted as well. The international cooperations between the developing countries and the department were also made concerning the operation, utilization and safety analysis for research reactors. (author)

Development of the user Interface of digital simulation system of the operational parameters of the TRIGA IPR-R1 Nuclear Research Reactor; Desenvolvimento da interface para usuário do sistema digital de simulação dos parâmetros operacionais do reator nuclear de pesquisa Triga IPR-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Felippe, Adriano de A.M., E-mail: adrianoamfelippe@gmail.com [Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil); Lage, Aldo M.F.; Mesquita, Amir Z., E-mail: aldo@cdtn.br, E-mail: amir@cdtn.br [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2017-07-01

The development of simulation systems has been increasingly improved to ensure security and reliability to the systems being associated. Computational tools, simulation systems and programming languages increasingly allow the diversification of control systems. With increasing concern about monitoring the key parameters involved in chain reactions inside a nuclear reactor, new technologies are being developed to ensure operations safety. This paper deals with a practical application of a work that is being developed in the Center for the Development of Nuclear Technology - CDTN, which intends to simulate the operation of the TRIGA-IPR-R1 nuclear research reactor using the LabVIEW® software, evaluating the evolution of the neutron flux and other related events. In this paper, the visual interface of the reactor control table, developed through virtual instruments that allow, in a vast repertoire of tools, replicating the panels of the control table in modern screens that can be operated by a user of an analogous form, but still more practical and complete. Since the innovations developed for research reactors can be replicated in power reactors, and because of their lower operating and maintenance costs, projects in this area allow the development of several technologies.

Advanced reactor development

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Till, C.E.

1989-01-01

Consideration is given to what the aims of advanced reactor development have to be, if a new generation of nuclear power is really to play an important role in man's energy generation activities in a fragile environment. The background given briefly covers present atmospheric evidence, the current situation in nuclear power, how reactors work and what can go wrong with them, and the present magnitudes of world energy generation. The central part of the paper describes what is currently being done in advanced reactor development and what can be expected from various systems and various elements of it. A vigorous case is made that three elements must be present in any advanced reactor development: (1) breeding; (2) passive safety; and (3) shorter-live nuclear waste. All three are possible. In the right advanced reactor systems the ways of achieving them are known. But R and D is necessary. That is the central argument made in the paper. Not advanced reactor prototype construction at this point, but R and D itself. (author)

Development of an artificial neural network for monitoring and diagnosis of sensor fault and detection in the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bueno, Elaine Inacio

2006-01-01

The increasing demand on quality in production processes has encouraged the development of several studies on Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems in industrial plant, where the interruption of the production due to some unexpected change can bring risk to the operator's security besides provoking economic losses, increasing the costs to repair some damaged equipment. Because of these two points, the economic losses and the operator's security, it becomes necessary to implement Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems. In this work, a Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems was developed based on the Artificial Neural Networks methodology. This methodology was applied to the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN. The development of this system was divided in three stages: the first was dedicated to monitoring, the second to the detection and the third to diagnosis of failures. In the first stage, several Artificial Neural Networks were trained to monitor the temperature variables, nuclear power and dose rate. Two databases were used: one with data generated by a theoretical model and another one with data to a typical week of operation of the IEA-R1 reactor. In the second stage, the neural networks used to monitor the variables was tested with a fault database. The faults were inserted artificially in the sensors signals. As the value of the maximum calibration error for special thermocouples is ±0,5 deg C, it had been inserted faults of ± 10 C in the sensors for the reading of the variables T3 and T4. In the third stage a Fuzzy System was developed to carry out the faults diagnosis, where were considered three conditions: a normal condition, a fault of 1 0 C , and a fault of + 10 C . This system will indicate which thermocouple is faulty. (author)

77 FR 7613 - Dow Chemical Company; Dow Chemical TRIGA Research Reactor; Facility Operating License No. R-108

Science.gov (United States)

2012-02-13

... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION [Docket No. 50-264; NRC-2012-0026] Dow Chemical Company; Dow Chemical TRIGA Research Reactor; Facility Operating License No. R-108 AGENCY: Nuclear Regulatory Commission... Facility Operating License No. R-108 (``Application''), which currently authorizes the Dow Chemical Company...

Annual report on JEN-1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Montes, J.

1972-01-01

In the annual report on the JEN-1 reactor the main features of the reactor operations and maintenance are described. The reactor has been critical for 1831 hours, what means 65,8% of the total working time. Maintenance and pool water contamination have occupied the rest of the time. The maintenance schedule is shown in detail according to three subjects. The main failures and reactor scrams are also described. The daily maximum values of the water activity are given so as the activity of the air in the reactor hall. (Author)

Design and construction of an irradiation apparatus with controlled atmosphere and temperature for radiation damage evaluation of nuclear materials in the IEA-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lucki, Georgi; Silva, Jose Eduardo Rosa da; Castanheira, Myrthes; Terremoto, Luis Antonio Albiac; Teodoro, Celso Antonio; Silva, Antonio Teixeira e; Damy, Margaret de Almeida

2005-01-01

A material irradiation apparatus CIMAT (Capsula de Irradiacao de Materiais) with controlled temperature and atmosphere is described. The device was specifically designed to perform experiments inside the core of the IEA-R1 swimming pool reactor and allows fast neutron (E=1 MeV) irradiations of multiple miniature metallic samples at temperature between 100 deg C and 500 deg C, in Argon or Helium atmosphere to inhibit corrosion. The aim of CIMAT is to make a comparative assessment of Radiation Embrittlement (RE) on the AS 508 cl.3 steel, of different origins (ELETROMETAL-Brazil and VITCOVICE-Chekia) used in Pressure Vessels (PV) of PWR, for fluence of 10 exp 19 nvt at 300 C, by means of mechanical post irradiation evaluation. Previous characterization of non-irradiated samples of these materials is presented. In situ electrical and magnetic measurements, at high temperatures, are foreseen to be made with this apparatus. Extensive temperature stability and leak-tightness tests performed in the reactor swimming pool have proven the CIMAT to be intrinsically safe and operational. (author)

Applicability of base-isolation R and D in non-reactor facilities to a nuclear reactor plant

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Seidensticker, R.W.

1989-01-01

Seismic isolation is gaining increased attention worldwide for use in a wide spectrum of critical facilities, ranging from hospitals and computing centers to nuclear power plants. While the fundamental principles and technology are applicable to all of these facilities, the degree of assurance that the actual behavior of the isolation systems is as specified varies with the nature of the facility involved. Obviously, the level of effort to provide such assurance for a nuclear power plant will be much greater than that required for, say, a critical computer facility. This paper reviews the research and development (R and D) programs ongoing for seismic isolation in non-nuclear facilities and related experience and makes a preliminary assessment of the extent to which such R and D and experience can be used for nuclear power plant application. Ways are suggested to improve the usefulness of such non-nuclear R and D in providing the high level of confidence required for the use of seismic isolation in a nuclear reactor plant

Annual report of Department of Research Reactor, 2003. April 1, 2003 - March 31, 2004

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2005-02-01

The Department of Research Reactor is responsible for the operation, maintenance, utilization of the JRR-3 and the JRR-4 and for the related R and D. Besides the RI production and its R and D are carried out. This report describes the activities of the department in fiscal year of 2003 and also includes some of the technical topics on the works mentioned above. As for the research reactors, we carried out the operation, maintenance, utilization of irradiation and neutron beam experiments, technical management including management of fuels and water chemistry, and related R and D works. The RI production and its R and D works were conducted as well. The international co-operations between the developing countries and the department were also made concerning the operation, utilization and safety analysis for research reactors. (author)

Non destructive burn up determination of IEA-R1 reactor fuel elements by gamma-ray spectrometry using a Ge(Li) detector

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Madi Filho, T.

1982-01-01

A non destructive determination of burn up of low (IEA-14) and high (IEA-80) activity fuel elements used in the IEA-R1 pool reactor was made from the measured distribution of the Cs-137 gamma-ray activity in these elements. For both series of measurements a 73,7 c.c. Ge(Li) detector was used in 'well collimated' geometry. Where as IEA-14, removed from the reactor some 20 years, showed a gamma-ray spectrum essentially due to Cs-137, IEA-80, with a cooling time of 5 years, showed a more complex spectrum due to the greater number of fission products remaining. The S.I out-of-pool assembly was calibrated using Cs-137 and Co-60 point and Ag-110m plane sources. These measurements provided the necessary constants used to calculate fuel burn-up from measured relative activity distributions of fuel elements. Detailed fuel plate transmission measurements made with the Cs-137 source showed the plates to be highly homogeneous. High activity fuel elements were measured in the S.II in-pool assembly in which the detector was locate on the moveable pool bridge and the test element was positioned immediately below the detector 2.17m below the pool surface. Measurements made in the S.II assembly were normalised with respect to the measured activity of the IEA-14 element. The measured burn up of the IEA-14 and IEA-80 elements obtained in this work is 3.22.10 - 3 gms and 24.44gms. These values may be compared with respective values of 2.63.10 - 3 gms and 61.11gms given by 'total reactor energy/flux distribution' calculations. Calculated errors for the U-235 burn up are 7.4% (IEA-14) and 10.1% (IEA-80). A detailed evaluation of the errors associated with both sets of measurements is given. (Author) [pt

78 FR 5840 - Notice of License Termination for University of Illinois Advanced TRIGA Reactor, License No. R-115

Science.gov (United States)

2013-01-28

... University of Illinois Advanced TRIGA Reactor, License No. R-115 The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is noticing the termination of Facility Operating License No. R-115, for the University of Illinois... Operating License No. R-115 is terminated. The above referenced documents may be examined, and/or copied for...

Civilian Power Program. Part 1, Summary, Current status of reactor concepts

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Author, Not Given

1959-09-01

This study group covered the following: delineation of the specific objectives of the overall US AEC civilian power reactor program, technical objectives of each reactor concept, preparation of a chronological development program for each reactor concept, evaluation of the economic potential of each reactor type, a program to encourage the the development, and yardsticks for measuring the development. Results were used for policy review by AEC, program direction, authorization and appropriation requests, etc. This evaluation encompassed civilian power reactors rated at 25 MW(e) or larger and related experimental facilities and R&D. This Part I summarizes the significant results of the comprehensive effort to determine the current technical and economic status for each reactor concept; it is based on the 8 individual technical status reports (Part III).

Safety operation of training reactor VR-1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Matejka, K.

2001-01-01

There are three nuclear research reactors in the Czech Republic in operation now: light water reactor LVR-15, maximum reactor power 10 MW t , owner and operator Nuclear Research Institute Rez; light water zero power reactor LR-0, maximum reactor power 5 kW t , owner and operator Nuclear Research Institute Rez and training reactor VR-1 Sparrow, maximum reactor power 5 kW t , owner and operate Faculty of Nuclear Sciences and Physical Engineering, CTU in Prague. The training reactor VR-1 Vrabec 'Sparrow', operated at the Faculty of Nuclear Sciences and Physical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, was started up on December 3, 1990. Particularly it is designed for training the students of Czech universities, preparing the experts for the Czech nuclear programme, as well as for certain research work, and for information programmes in the nuclear programme, as well as for certain research work, and for information programmes in sphere of using the nuclear energy (public relations). (author)

International R and D project on development of coated particle fuel for innovative reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kendall, J.M.

2001-01-01

The paper presents an outline for an international collaborative project of coated particle fuel development for innovative reactors. Specific issues include identification of R and D needs and the Member State facilities for meeting the needs followed by development and demonstration of technology. (author)

Methodology to monitor and diagnostic vibrations of the motor-pumps used in the primary cooling system of IEAR-1 nuclear research reactor; Metodologia para monitoracao e diagnostico de vibracao das bombas moto-operadas do circuito primario de refrigeracao do Reator IEA-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Benevenuti, Erion de Lima

2004-07-01

The objectives of this study are to establish a strategy to monitor and diagnose vibrations of the motor pumps used in the primary reactor cooling system of the IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor, to verify the possibility of using the existing installed monitoring vibration system and to implement such strategy in a continuous way. Four types of mechanical problems were considered: unbalancing, misalignment, gaps and faults in bearings. An adequate set of analysis tools, well established by the industry, was selected. These are: global measurements of vibration, velocity spectrum and acceleration envelope spectrum. Three sources of data and information were used; the data measured from the primary pumps, experimental results obtained with a Spectra Quest machine used to simulate mechanical defects and data from the literature. The results show that, for the specific case of the motor-pumps of IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor, although the technique using the envelope of acceleration, which is not available in the current system used to monitor the vibration of the motor pumps, is the one with best performance, the other techniques available in the system are sufficient to monitor the four types of mechanical problems mentioned. The proposed strategy is shown and detailed in this work. (author)

Annual report of department of research reactor, 1999. April 1, 1999 - March 31, 2000

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2001-03-01

The Department of Research Reactor is responsible for the operation, maintenance, utilization of the JRR-3M (new JRR-3) and the JRR-4 and for the related R and D. Besides the decommissioning of the JRR-2 and RI production including its R and D are carried out. This report describes the activities of the department in fiscal year of 1999 and it also includes some of the technical topics on the works mentioned above. As for the research reactors, we carried out the operation, maintenance, the utilization of irradiation and neutron beam experiments, technical management including fuels and water chemistry, radiation monitoring as related R and D works. RI production and its R and D works were conducted as well. The international cooperations between the developing countries and the department were also made concerning the operation, utilization and safety analysis for research reactors. (author)

Monitoring device for the stability of a reactor core

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sakurai, Mikio; Yamauchi, Koki.

1983-01-01

Purpose: To avoid unnecessary limitation on the operation conditions for maintaining the reactor stability. Constitution: The reactor stability is judged by taking notice of the axial power distribution of the reactor and monitoring the same online. Specifically, signals are received from a plurality of local power distribution detectors arranged axially in the reactor core to calculate the axial power distribution in computer. Further, a certain distance L is set from the lower end of the reactor core and the total value S1 for the power distribution in the region below the set value L and the total value S2 for the region above the set value L are determined based on the thus calculated power distribution, to thereby determine the ratio: R = S1/S2 between them. Separately, a certain value r is previously determined based on analysis or experiment such as the result of operation. Then, R and r are compared in a comparator and an alarm is generated, if R >r, with respect to the stability. Since monitoring is made based on the actual index, the applicable range of the operation region can be extended. (Ikeda, J.)

Annual report of department of research reactor, 2000. April 1, 2000 - March 31, 2001

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2002-02-01

The Department of Research Reactor is responsible for the operation, Maintenance, utilization of the JRR-3 and the JRR-4 and for the related R and D. Besides RI production including its R and D are carried out. This report describes the activities of the department in fiscal year of 2000 and it also includes some of the technical topics on the works mentioned above. As for the research reactors, we carried out the operation, maintenance, the utilization of irradiation and neutron beam experiments, technical management including fuels and water chemistry, radiation monitoring as related R and D works. RI Production and its R and D works were conducted as well. The international cooperations between the developing countries and the department were also made concerning the operation, utilization and safety analysis for research reactors. Although the term 'JRR-3M' was used to denote the JRR-3M modified 1990 until the 2000 annual report of the Department of Research Reactor, the term 'JRR-3' will be used from this annual report because the JRR-3 has been operated for about 10 years since the modification and is now under further modification and upgrading study. (author)

Safety-related Innovative Nuclear Reactor Technology Elements R and D (SINTER) Network and Global HTGR R and D Network (GHTRN). Strategic benefits of international networking

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Von Lensa, W.

1998-01-01

The nuclear industries and the nuclear research and development (R and D) programmes world-wide have undergone considerable changes over recent years which have resulted in the formation of international industrial consortiums on the one hand and the need for synergistic collaboration in the R and D area due to the reductions of national R and D activities in the nuclear field on the other hand. International networking starting from precompetitive medium- or long-term oriented R and D could be an efficient mean to overcome the problems nuclear energy is facing today with respect to the lack of public acceptance and economic attractivity in a joint effort. Additional motivation is provided by the fact that there is not only a globalisation of markets but also a 'globalisation of problems' to be addressed internationally like reductions of environmental impacts and long-term availability of economic energy supply. The tools for telecommunication and telecollaboration are evolving in parallel and offer better conditions for closer collaboration of different R and D teams at distant locations than ever before. It is obvious that these trends and boundary conditions will drastically influence the structures of collaboration not only in the industries, but for R and D on an international level, too. The chances emerging from the creation of a European Union and from the globalisation trends have to be converted into strategic benefits by active response on these 'historic changes'. New initiatives have been undertaken in Europe to push for innovations of nuclear reactor technologies via international R and D Networks under the European R and D Framework Programmes (FWP). Innovative approaches are already addressed with limited funding under the actual 4th FWP and should be extended for complementing the commercial efforts on evolutionary LWR concepts by medium- and long-term oriented innovations and R and D. The MICHELANGELO initiative as well as the EU-funded Concerted

Study of heat transfer in 3D fuel rods of the EPRI-9R reactor modified

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Affonso, Renato Raoni Werneck; Lava, Deise Diana; Borges, Diogo da Silva; Sampaio, Paulo Augusto Berquo de; Moreira, Maria de Lourdes

2014-01-01

This paper aims to conduct a case study of the fuel rods that have the highest and the lowest average power of the EPRI-9R 3D reactor modified , for various positions of the control rods banks. For this, will be addressed the verification of computer code, comparing the results obtained with analytical solutions. This check is important so that, subsequently, it is possible use the program to understand the behavior of the fuel rods and the coolant channel of the EPRI-9R 3D reactor modified. Thus, in view of the scope of this paper, first a brief introducing on the heat transfer is done, including the rod equations and the equation of energy in the channel to allow the analysis of the results

Extensive utilization of training reactor VR-1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Matejka, Karel; Sklenka, Lubomir

2003-01-01

Full text: The training reactor VR-1 Vrabec ('Sparrow'), operated at the Faculty of Nuclear Sciences and Physical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, was started up on December 3, 1990. Particularly, it is designed and operated for training of students from Czech universities, preparing of experts for the Czech nuclear programme, as well as for certain research and development work, and for information programmes in the sphere of non-military nuclear energy use (public relation). The VR-1 training reactor is a pool-type light-water reactor based on enriched uranium with maximum thermal power 1kWth and short time period up to 5kW th . The moderator of neutrons is light demineralized water (H 2 O) that is also used as a reflector, a biological shielding, and a coolant. Heat is removed from the core with natural convection. The reactor core contains 14 to 18 fuel assemblies IRT-3M, depending on the geometric arrangement and kind of experiments to be performed in the reactor. The core is accommodated in a cylindrical stainless steel vessel - pool, which is filled with water. UR-70 control rods serve the reactor control and safe shutdown. Training of the VR-1 reactor provides students with experience in reactor and neutron physics, dosimetry, nuclear safety, and nuclear installation operation. Students from technical universities and from natural sciences universities come to the reactor for training. Approximately 200 university students are introduced to the reactor (lectures, experiments, experimental and diploma works, etc.) every year. About 12 different faculties from Czech universities use the reactor. International co-operation with European universities in Germany, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, Holland and UK is frequent. Practical Course on Reactor Physics in Framework of European Nuclear Engineering Network has been newly introduced. Currently, students can try out more than 20 experimental exercises. Further training courses have been included

Experience with the RE fuel transition at the Studsvik R2 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pazsit, I.; Saltvedt, K.

1991-01-01

Irradiation of 7 LEU fuel elements is underway in the Studsvik R2 reactor. Four of these have 490 g U-235, and three 320 g U-235 loading, and the enrichment is 19.7% for all of them. The irradiation of LEU fuel started in 1987. The heavier elements have burnup figures 67% (CERCA), 50% (B and W), 47% (NUKEM) and 19% (B and W). One of the lighter elements has reached a burnup of 65%. To support the whole-core conversion process, reactor physical calculations were performed to see if a one-step conversion is possible with a suitable fuel management strategy such that all HEU fuel is burned up. The calculations show that it is possible to perform such a conversion with fuel elements containing 400 g U-235. (orig.)

Neutron field characterization in the installation for BNCT study in the IEA-R1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Carneiro Junior, Valdeci

2008-01-01

This work aims to characterize the mixed neutron and gamma field, in the sample irradiation position, in a research installation for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT), in the IPEN IEA-R1 reactor. The BNCT technique has been studied as a safe and selective option in the treatment of resistant cancerigenous tumors or considered non-curable by the conventional techniques, for example, the Glioblastoma Multiform - a brain cancerigenous tumor. Neutron flux measurements were carried out: thermal, resonance and fast, as well as neutron and gamma rays doses, in the sample position, using activation foils detectors and thermoluminescent dosimeters. For the determination of the neutron spectrum and intensity, a set of different threshold activation foils and gold foils covered and uncovered with cadmium irradiated in the installation was used, analyzed by a high Pure Germanium semiconductor detector, coupled to an electronic system suitable for gamma spectrometry. The results were processed with the SAND-BP code. The doses due to gamma and neutron rays were determined using thermoluminescent dosimeters TLD 400 and TLD 700 sensitive to gamma and TLD 600, sensitive to neutrons. The TLDs were selected and used for obtaining the calibration curves - dosimeter answer versus dose - from each of the TLD three types, which were necessary to calculate the doses due to neutron and gamma, in the sample position. The radiation field, in the sample irradiation position, was characterized flux for thermal neutrons of 1.39.10 8 ± 0,12.10 8 n/cm 2 s the doses due to thermal neutrons are three times higher than those due to gamma radiation and confirm the reproducibility and consistency of the experimental findings obtained. Considering these results, the neutron field and gamma radiation showed to be appropriated for research in BNCT. (author)

Fuel element reactivity worth in different rings of the IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gomes do Prado Souza, Rose Mary

2008-10-29

The thermal power of the IPR-R1 TRIGA Reactor will be upgraded from 100 kW to 250 kW. Starting core: loaded with 59 aluminum cladded fuel elements; 1.34 $ excess reactivity; and 100 kW power. It is planned to go 2.5 times the power licensed, i.e., 250 kW. This forces to enlarge the reactivity level. Nuclear reactors must have sufficient excess reactivity to compensate the negative reactivity feedback effects caused by: the fuel temperature, fuel burnup, fission poisoning production, and to allow full power operation for predetermined period of time. To provide information for the calculation of the new core arrangement, the reactivity worth of some fuel elements in the core were measured as well as the determination of the core reactivity increase in the substitution of the original fuels, cladded with aluminium, for new ones, cladded with stainless steel. The reactivity worth of fuel element was measured from the difference in critical position of the control rods, calibrated by the positive period method, before and after the fuel element was withdrawn from the core. The magnitude of reactivity increase was determined when withdrawing the original Al-clad fuel (a little burned up) and the graphite elements, and inserting a fresh Al-clad fuel element, one by one. Experimental results indicated that to obtain enough reactivity excess to increase the rector power the addition of 4 new fuel elements in the core would be sufficient: - Substitution of 4 Al-clad fuel elements in ring C for fresh stainless steel clad fuel elements; - increase the reactivity {approx_equal} 4 x 6.5 = 26 cents; - The removed 4 Al-clad F. E. (a little burned up) put in the core periphery, ring F, replacing graphite elements; - add < 4 x 39 156 cents (39 cents was measured with a fresh F.E.). Neutron source was changed from position F7 to F8. Control and Safety rods were moved from ring D to C in order to increase their reactivity worth. Regulating rod was kept at the same position, F16. Four

Triga IPR-R1 neutron beam: increasing the thematic of applications in CDTN

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sebastiao, Rita de C.O.; Rodrigues, Rogerio R.; Leal, Alexandre S.

2007-01-01

The neutron flux in a research reactor can be used in several applications such as the neutron activation analysis, the radioisotopes production, study of DNA and protein structures, doping of silicon and neutron radiography. The enhancement of the nuclear research reactor utilization with the introduction of new applications would be possible with the availability of a neutron beam and with the neutron energy spectra completely characterized. This work evaluates the use of TRIGA reactor of CDTN/CNEN as a source of neutron beam. The readiness of a neutron beam with appropriate intensity and energy spectrum would make possible the increasing of the thematic of applications and researches in this reactor. The main contribution to this theme is to evaluate the thermal and epithermal neutron flux in the vertical extractor of the TRIGA IPR-R1. The simulation was performed in this work using the MCNP code. (author)

Reactor Structure Materials: Corrosion of Reactor Core Internals

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Van Dyck, S.

2000-01-01

The objectives of SCK-CEN's R and D programme on the corrosion of reactor core internals are: (1) to gain mechanistic insight into the Irradition Assisted Stress Corrosion Cracking (IASCC) phenomenon by studying the influence of separate parameters in well controlled experiments; (2) to develop and validate a predictive capability on IASCC by model description and (3) to define and validate countermeasures and monitoring techniques for application in reactors. Progress and achievements in 1999 are described

Development of an artificial neural network for monitoring and diagnosis of sensor fault and detection in the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN; Utilizacao de redes neurais artificiais na monitoracao e deteccao de falhas em sensores do reator IEA-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bueno, Elaine Inacio

2006-07-01

The increasing demand on quality in production processes has encouraged the development of several studies on Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems in industrial plant, where the interruption of the production due to some unexpected change can bring risk to the operator's security besides provoking economic losses, increasing the costs to repair some damaged equipment. Because of these two points, the economic losses and the operator's security, it becomes necessary to implement Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems. In this work, a Monitoring and Diagnosis Systems was developed based on the Artificial Neural Networks methodology. This methodology was applied to the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN. The development of this system was divided in three stages: the first was dedicated to monitoring, the second to the detection and the third to diagnosis of failures. In the first stage, several Artificial Neural Networks were trained to monitor the temperature variables, nuclear power and dose rate. Two databases were used: one with data generated by a theoretical model and another one with data to a typical week of operation of the IEA-R1 reactor. In the second stage, the neural networks used to monitor the variables was tested with a fault database. The faults were inserted artificially in the sensors signals. As the value of the maximum calibration error for special thermocouples is {+-}0,5 deg C, it had been inserted faults of {+-} 10 C in the sensors for the reading of the variables T3 and T4. In the third stage a Fuzzy System was developed to carry out the faults diagnosis, where were considered three conditions: a normal condition, a fault of {sub 1}0 C , and a fault of + 10 C . This system will indicate which thermocouple is faulty. (author)

Initial mass function in R-associations CMaR1, Mon R1 and Mon R2 from radiodata

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pyatunina, T.B.

1985-01-01

Results of search for compact radiosources in R-associations CMa R1 and Mon R1 carried out with the radiotelescope RATAN-600 at the 7.6-cm wavelength are given. The number of sources found in the association Mon R1 is approximately equal to the expected number of background extragalactic radiosources. In the association CMa R1 seven radiosources of small angular diameter with the flux greater than 30 mJy are found, two of which probably are background sources. A comparison of optical and radiodata on the association CMa R1 and previously published data on the association Mon R2 make it possible to estimate the initial mass function for associations under study: xi(M) infinity Msup(-2.7+-0.7) for stars with M approximately 10Msub(Sun)

3-DB, 3-D Multigroup Diffusion, X-Y-Z, R-Theta-Z, Triangular-Z Geometry, Fast Reactor Burnup

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hardie, R.W.; Little, W.W. Jr.; Mroz, W.

1974-01-01

1 - Description of problem or function: 3DB is a three-dimensional (x-y-z, r-theta-z, triangular-z) multigroup diffusion code for use in detailed fast-reactor criticality and burnup analysis. The code can be used to - (a) compute k eff and perform criticality searches on time absorption, reactor composition, and reactor dimensions by means of either a flux or an adjoint model, (b) compute material burnup using a flexible material shuffling scheme, and (c) compute flux distributions for an arbitrary extraneous source. 2 - Method of solution: Eigenvalues are computed by standard source- iteration techniques. Group re-balancing and successive over-relaxation with line inversion are used to accelerate convergence. Adjoint solutions are obtained by inverting the input data and redefining the source terms. Material burnup is by reactor zone. The burnup rate is determined by the zone and energy-averaged cross sections which are recomputed after each time-step. The isotopic chains, which can contain any number of isotopes are formed by the user. The code does not contain built- in or internal chains. 3 - Restrictions on the complexity of the problem: Since variable dimensioning is employed, no simple bounds can be stated

Moving ring reactor 'Karin-1'

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1983-12-01

The conceptual design of a moving ring reactor ''Karin-1'' has been carried out to advance fusion system design, to clarify the research and development problems, and to decide their priority. In order to attain these objectives, a D-T reactor with tritium breeding blanket is designed, a commercial reactor with net power output of 500 MWe is designed, the compatibility of plasma physics with fusion engineering is demonstrated, and some other guideline is indicated. A moving ring reactor is composed mainly of three parts. In the first formation section, a plasma ring is formed and heated up to ignition temperature. The plasma ring of compact torus is transported from the formation section through the next burning section to generate fusion power. Then the plasma ring moves into the last recovery section, and the energy and particles of the plasma ring are recovered. The outline of a moving ring reactor ''Karin-1'' is described. As a candidate material for the first wall, SiC was adopted to reduce the MHD effect and to minimize the interaction with neutrons and charged particles. The thin metal lining was applied to the SiC surface to solve the problem of the compatibility with lithium blanket. Plasma physics, the engineering aspect and the items of research and development are described. (Kako, I.)

Annual report of department of research reactor, 2000. April 1, 2000 - March 31, 2001

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

2002-02-01

The Department of Research Reactor is responsible for the operation, Maintenance, utilization of the JRR-3 and the JRR-4 and for the related R and D. Besides RI production including its R and D are carried out. This report describes the activities of the department in fiscal year of 2000 and it also includes some of the technical topics on the works mentioned above. As for the research reactors, we carried out the operation, maintenance, the utilization of irradiation and neutron beam experiments, technical management including fuels and water chemistry, radiation monitoring as related R and D works. RI Production and its R and D works were conducted as well. The international cooperations between the developing countries and the department were also made concerning the operation, utilization and safety analysis for research reactors. Although the term 'JRR-3M' was used to denote the JRR-3M modified 1990 until the 2000 annual report of the Department of Research Reactor, the term 'JRR-3' will be used from this annual report because the JRR-3 has been operated for about 10 years since the modification and is now under further modification and upgrading study. (author)

k{sub 0}-INAA method at the pneumatic station of the IEA-R1 nuclear research reactor. Application to geological samples

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mariano, Davi B.; Figueiredo, Ana Maria G.; Semmler, Renato, E-mail: davimariano@usp.br, E-mail: anamaria@ipen.br, E-mail: rsemmler@ipen.br [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2011-07-01

There is a significant number of analytically important elements, when geological samples are concerned, whose activation products are short-lived (seconds to minutes) or medium-lived radioisotopes (minutes to hours). As part of the process of implementation of the k{sub 0}-INAA standardization method at the Neutron Activation Laboratory (LAN-IPEN), Sao Paulo, Brazil, this study presents the results obtained for the analysis of short and medium-lived nuclides in geological samples by k{sub 0}-INAA using the program k{sub 0}-IAEA, provided by The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The elements Al, Dy, Eu, Na, K, Mn, Mg, Sr, V and Ti were determined with respect to gold ({sup 197}Au) using the pneumatic station facility of the IEA-R1 5 MW swimming pool nuclear research reactor, Sao Paulo. Characterization of the pneumatic station was carried out by using the -bare triple-monitor- method with {sup 197}Au-{sup 96}Zr-{sup 94}Zr. The Certified Reference Material IRMM-530R Al-0,1% Au alloy, high purity zirconium, Ni and Lu comparators were irradiated. The efficiency curves of the gamma-ray spectrometer used were determined by measuring calibrated radioactive sources at the usually utilized counting geometries. The method was validated by analyzing the reference materials basalt BE-N (IWG-GIT), basalt JB- 1 (GSJ), andesite AGV-1 (USGS), granite GS-N (IWG-GIT), SOIL-7 (IAEA) and sediment Buffalo River Sediment (NIST-BRS-8704), which represent different geological matrices. The concentration results obtained agreed with certified, reference and recommended values, showing relative errors less than 10% for most elements. (author)

The determination of neutron energy spectrum in reactor core C1 of reactor VR-1 Sparrow

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vins, M. [Department of Nuclear Reactors, Faculty of Nuclear Sciences and Physical Engineering, Czech Technical University, V Holesovickach 2, 180 00 Prague 8 (Czech Republic)], E-mail: vinsmiro@seznam.cz

2008-07-15

This contribution overviews neutron spectrum measurement, which was done on training reactor VR-1 Sparrow with a new nuclear fuel. Former nuclear fuel IRT-3M was changed for current nuclear fuel IRT-4M with lower enrichment of 235U (enrichment was reduced from former 36% to 20%) in terms of Reduced Enrichment for Research and Test Reactors (RERTR) Program. Neutron spectrum measurement was obtained by irradiation of activation foils at the end of pipe of rabit system and consecutive deconvolution of obtained saturated activities. Deconvolution was performed by computer iterative code SAND-II with 620 groups' structure. All gamma measurements were performed on Canberra HPGe. Activation foils were chosen according physical and nuclear parameters from the set of certificated foils. The Resulting differential flux at the end of pipe of rabit system agreed well with typical spectrum of light water reactor. Measurement of neutron spectrum has brought better knowledge about new reactor core C1 and improved methodology of activation measurement. (author)

Reactor theory and power reactors. 1. Calculational methods for reactors. 2. Reactor kinetics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Henry, A.F.

1980-01-01

Various methods for calculation of neutron flux in power reactors are discussed. Some mathematical models used to describe transients in nuclear reactors and techniques for the reactor kinetics' relevant equations solution are also presented

Two Stage Anaerobic Reactor Design and Treatment To Produce Biogas From Mixed Liquor of Vegetable Waste

Science.gov (United States)

Budiastuti, H.; Ghozali, M.; Wicaksono, H. K.; Hadiansyah, R.

2018-01-01

Municipal solid waste has become a common challenged problem to be solved for developing countries including Indonesia. Municipal solid waste generating is always bigger than its treatment to reduce affect of environmental pollution. This research tries to contribute to provide an alternative solution to treat municipal solid waste to produce biogas. Vegetable waste was obtained from Gedebage Market, Bandung and starter as a source of anaerobic microorganisms was cow dung obtained from a cow farm in Lembang. A two stage anaerobic reactor was designed and built to treat the vegetable waste in a batch run. The capacity of each reactor is 20 liters but its active volume in each reactor is 15 liters. Reactor 1 (R1) was fed up with mixture of filtered blended vegetable waste and water at ratio of 1:1 whereas Reactor 2 (R2) was filled with filtered mixed liquor of cow dung and water at ratio of 1:1. Both mixtures were left overnight before use. Into R1 it was added EM-4 at concentration of 10%. pH in R1 was maintained at 5 - 6.5 whereas pH in R1 was maintained at 6.5 - 7.5. Temperature of reactors was not maintained to imitate the real environmental temperature. Parameters taken during experiment were pH, temperature, COD, MLVSS, and composition of biogas. The performance of reactor built was shown from COD efficiencies reduction obtained of about 60% both in R1 and R2, pH average in R1 of 4.5 ± 1 and R2 of 7 ± 0.6, average temperature in both reactors of 25 ± 2°C. About 1L gas produced was obtained during the last 6 days of experiment in which CH4 obtained was 8.951 ppm and CO2 of 1.087 ppm. The maximum increase of MLVSS in R1 reached 156% and R2 reached 89%.

Conceptual design for Japan sodium-cooled fast reactor. (1) Current status of system design for JSFR

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Uto, Nariki; Sakai, Takaaki; Mihara, Takatsugu; Kotake, Shoji; Aoto, Kazumi; Toda, Mikio

2009-01-01

Japan Atomic Energy Agency is now conducting 'Fast Reactor Cycle Technology Development (FaCT)' project. In the FaCT project, the system design for JSFR has been carried out along the design categories such as safety design, reactor system, heat transport system, etc., together with research and developments (R and Ds) on innovative technologies to be adopted to JSFR for achieving economic competitiveness, enhanced safety and reliability. This paper describes the system design features of JSFR and a summary of the progresses of the design and R and Ds concerned with a compact reactor vessel, an innovative containment vessel, etc. The approach for the commercialization of fast reactors including discussion on a demonstration reactor for JSFR is also briefly described. (author)

Occupational analysis for the Angra-1 reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Moraes, A.

1991-01-01

Due to several modifications which were imposed to its time schedule during construction, the Angra-1 reactor did not enter to the grid in 1982 as it was initially foreseen. These modifications occurred due to an unforeseen scenario that was verified in steam generators (serie D-3, Westinghouse) of power stations with similar configurations which had been installed in other countries such as Ringhals-3 (Sweden), Almaraz-1 (Spain) and McGuine-1 (USA). So, among the main events that occurred in the Angra-1 reactor, which were of interest from the point of view of radiation protection, it could be pointed out the personnel monitoring, and the occupational exposure measurements at different reactor power, during the reactor fueling and during modification and tests performed at the steam generators and at ducts of the primary coolant circuit. (author)

Severe Accident R and D for Enhanced CANDU-6 Reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nitheanandan, Thambiayah

2012-01-01

CANDU reactors possess a number of inherent of inherent and designed safety features that make them resistant to core damage accidents. The unique feature is the low temperature moderator surrounding the fuel channels, which can serve as an alternate heat sink. The fuel is surrounded by three water systems: heavy water primary coolant, heavy water moderator, and light water calandria vault and shield water. In addition, the liquid inventory in the steam generators is a fourth indirect heat sink, able to cool the primary coolant. The water inventories in the emergency core cooling system and the reserve water tank at the dome of the containment can also provide fuel cooling and water makeup to prevent severe core damage or mitigate the consequences of a severe core damage accident. An assessment of the adequacy of the existing severe accident knowledge base, to confidently perform consequence analyses for the Enhanced CANDU-6 reactor in compliance with regulatory requirements, was recently completed. The assessment relied on systematic Phenomena Identification and Ranking Tables (PIRT) studies completed domestically and internationally. The assessment recommends cost-effective R and D to mitigate the consequences of severe accidents and associated risk vulnerabilities

Optimization of neutronic characteristics of U3Si2 low enrichment fuel elements for a new design of IEA-R1 reactor core

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mai, L.A.; Maiorino, J.R.; Gouvea, E.A.

1989-01-01

This work shows a study of neutronic optimization of U 3 Si 2 -Al low enrichment fuel element. This study has a goal to propose a optimized Core to be used in the research reactor IEA-R1. The external dimensions of the fuel element were maintained as constraints and the loss of reactivity along fuel life-time was defined as 'objective function', and it has been minimized by varying the fuel element dimensions. Cell calculations were made with HAMMER-TECH /3/ Code, for burnups up to 50% of U-235 initial mass. The Computer values of the objective function for several combinations of fuel element dimensions were fitted by a surface using the SAS system /9/, and it has been minimized by a Harwell subroutine /10/. (author) [pt

R and D relative to the serious accidents in the PWR type reactors: assessment and perspectives; R and D relative aux accidents graves dans les reacteurs a eau pressurisee: bilan et perspectives

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bentaib, A.; Bonneville, H.; Caroli, H.; Chaumont, B.; Clement, B.; Cranga, M.; Koundy, V.; Laurent, B.; Micaelli, J.C.; Meignen, R.; Pichereau, F.; Plassart, D.; Van-Dorsselaere, P. [Institut de Radioprotection et de Surete Nucleaire (IRSN), 92 - Clamart (France); Ducros, G.; Journeau, Ch.; Magallon, D. [CEA Cadarache, 13 - Saint Paul lez Durance (France); Durin, M.; Studer, E. [CEA Saclay 91 - Gif sur Yvette (France); Seiler, J.M. [CEA Grenoble, 38 (France); Ranval, W. [Electricite de France (EDF), 75 - Paris (France)

2006-07-01

This document presents the current state of the research relative to the grave accidents realized in France and abroad. It aims at giving the most exhaustive possible and objective vision of this original field of research. He allows to contribute to the identification and to the hierarchical organization of the needs of R and D, this hierarchical organization in front of, naturally, to be completed by a strong lighting on needs in terms of safety analyses associated with the different risks and the physical phenomena, in particular with the support of probability evaluations of safety level 2, whose the level of sharpness must be sufficient not to hide, by construction, physical phenomena of which the limited knowledge leads to important uncertainties. Let us note that neither the safety analyses, nor the E.P.S. 2 are presented in this document. This report presents the physical phenomena which can arise during a grave accident, in the reactor vessel and in the reactor containment, their chain and the means allowing to ease the effects. The corresponding scenarios are presented to the chapter 2. The chapter 3 is dedicated to the progress of the accident in the reactor vessel; the degradation of the core in reactor vessel (3.1), the behavior of the corium in bottom of reactor vessel (3.2) the break of the reactor vessel (3.3) and the fusion in pressure (3.4) are thus handled there. The chapter 4 concerns the phenomena which can lead to a premature failure of the containment, namely the direct heating of gases of the containment (4.1), the hydrogen risk (4.2) and the vapor explosion (4.3). The phenomenon which can lead to a delayed failure from the containment, namely the interaction corium-concrete, is approached on the chapter 5. The chapter 6 is dedicated to the problems connected to the keeping back and to the corium cooling in reactor vessel and out of reactor vessel, namely the keeping back in reactor vessel by re-flooding of the primary circuit or by re

AP1000R pressurised water reactor project in china advances toward completion

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Harrop, G.

2014-01-01

The AP1000 R pressurised water reactor (PWR) project in China is the first deployment of its first-of-a-kind Generation III+ technology, making it one of most internationally important and industry-significant new build projects. The innovative AP1000 PWR design contains advanced passive safety and performance features that involve fewer active safety components than a traditional plant, thereby reducing the site footprint. The AP1000 reactor is the first and only Generation III+ nuclear power plant to be granted design certification by the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and it has received an Interim Design Acceptance Confirmation from the Office for Nuclear Regulation and an Interim Statement of Design Acceptability from the Environment Agency in the United Kingdom. Construction and testing of dual AP1000 PWR units is currently in progress in each of two coastal sites in the People's Republic of China: Sanmen (Zhejiang Province) and Haiyang (Shandong Province). Since the initial contract award in 2007, the Westinghouse Consortium has worked in concert with the owners to construct the plants using innovative structural and mechanical modules. Uniquely designed plant components and essential instrumentation and control systems have been manufactured, delivered, and installed at the plants. Numerous personnel, including future reactor operators, have been trained at both the Sanmen and Haiyang sites, and technology transfer of technical documents and computer codes is well underway. The commercial operation dates are now nearing for Sanmen Unit 1 and Haiyang Unit 1, the first two units scheduled for completion. Consequently, these units are now in advanced stages of completion and present activities include planning and preparation for pre-operational testing, system turnover, and commissioning leading to fuel load, and eventual commercial operation. These activities are pioneering, in that they have never before been performed for a new build of

Study of human factors and its basic aspects, focusing the operators of IEA-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Martins, Maria da Penha Sanches; Andrade, Delvonei Alves de

2008-01-01

Human factors and situational variables, which ca, when modified, interfere in the actions of operators of nuclear installations is studied. This work is focused in the operators of the IEA-R1 research reactor, which is located in the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Brazil. The accidents in Nuclear Plants have shown that the most serious have occurred due to human failure. This work also considers the item 5.5.3 of CNEN-NN-3.01 standard - 'Actions must be taken to reduce, as much as possible, the human failures that can lead to accidents or even other events which can originate inadvertent or unintentional expositions in any individual'. The model named 'Behavioral Analysis' is adopted. Relevant factors and aspects of the operators' routine are also considered. It is worth to remind that the performance depends on a series of variables, not only on the individual, but also situational, including in these categories; physical variables, work environment, organizational and the social ones. The subjective factors are also considered, such as: attitude, ability, motivation etc., aiming at a global perspective of the situation, which counts on a set of principles for the behaviour analysis and comprehension. After defining the applicability scenario, mechanisms and corrective actions to contribute with the reduction of failures will be proposed. (author)

Study of human factors and its basic aspects, focusing the operators of IEA-R1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Martins, Maria da Penha Sanches; Andrade, Delvonei Alves de

2007-01-01

The objective of this work is the study of human factors and situational variables, which, when modified, can interfere in the work actions of the operators of nuclear installations. This work is focused on the operators of the IEA-R1 research reactor, which is located in the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares - IPEN - CNEN/SP. The accidents in Nuclear Plants have shown that the most serious have occurred due to human failure. This work also considers the item 5.5.3 of CNEN-NN-3.01 standard - 'Actions must be taken to reduce, as much as possible, the human failures that may lead to accidents or even other events which may originate inadvertent or unintentional expositions in any individual'. The model named - Behavioral Analysis - is adopted. Relevant factors and aspects of the operators' routine are also considered. It is worth to remind that the performance depends on a series of variables, not only on the individual, but also the situational ones, which include physical, work, environment, organizational and social variables. Subjective factors are also considered, such as: attitude, ability, motivation etc., aiming at a global perspective of the situation, which counts on a set of principles for the behavior analysis and comprehension. After defining the applicability scenario, mechanisms and corrective actions to contribute with the reduction of failures will be proposed. (author)

Reactor operations at SAFARI-1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vlok, J.W.H.

2003-01-01

A vigorous commercial programme of isotope production and other radiation services has been followed by the SAFARI-1 research reactor over the past ten years - superimposed on the original purpose of the reactor to provide a basic tool for nuclear research, development and education to the country at an institutional level. A combination of the binding nature of the resulting contractual obligations and tighter regulatory control has demanded an equally vigorous programme of upgrading, replacement and renovation of many systems in order to improve the safety and reliability of the reactor. Not least among these changes is the more effective training and deployment of operations personnel that has been necessitated as the operational demands on the reactor evolved from five days per week to twenty four hours per day, seven days per week, with more than 300 days per year at full power. This paper briefly sketches the operational history of SAFARI-1 and then focuses on the training and structuring currently in place to meet the operational needs. There is a detailed step-by-step look at the operator?s career plan and pre-defined milestones. Shift work, especially the shift cycle, has a negative influence on the operator's career path development, especially due to his unavailability for training. Methods utilised to minimise this influence are presented. The increase of responsibilities regarding the operation of the reactor, ancillaries and experimental facilities as the operator progresses with his career are discussed. (author)

Process modeling of a reversible solid oxide cell (r-SOC) energy storage system utilizing commercially available SOC reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mottaghizadeh, Pegah; Santhanam, Srikanth; Heddrich, Marc P.; Friedrich, K. Andreas; Rinaldi, Fabio

2017-01-01

Highlights: • An electric energy storage system was developed based on a commercially available SOC reactor. • Heat generated in SOFC mode of r-SOC is utilized in SOEC operation of r-SOC using latent heat storage. • A round trip efficiency of 54.3% was reached for the reference system at atmospheric pressure. • An improved process system design achieved a round-trip efficiency of 60.4% at 25 bar. - Abstract: The increase of intermittent renewable energy contribution in power grids has urged us to seek means for temporal decoupling of electricity production and consumption. A reversible solid oxide cell (r-SOC) enables storage of surplus electricity through electrochemical reactions when it is in electrolysis mode. The reserved energy in form of chemical compounds is then converted to electricity when the cell operates as a fuel cell. A process system model was implemented using Aspen Plus® V8.8 based on a commercially available r-SOC reactor experimentally characterized at DLR. In this study a complete self-sustaining system configuration is designed by optimal thermal integration and balance of plant. Under reference conditions a round trip efficiency of 54.3% was achieved. Generated heat in fuel cell mode is exploited by latent heat storage tanks to enable endothermic operation of reactor in its electrolysis mode. In total, out of 100 units of thermal energy stored in heat storage tanks during fuel cell mode, 90% was utilized to offset heat demand of system in its electrolysis mode. Parametric analysis revealed the significance of heat storage tanks in thermal management even when reactor entered its exothermic mode of electrolysis. An improved process system design demonstrates a system round-trip efficiency of 60.4% at 25 bar.

Annual report of Department of Research Reactor, 1997. April 1, 1997 - March 31, 1998

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1999-01-01

The Department of Research Reactor is responsible for the operation, maintenance, utilization and related R and D works of the research reactors including JRR-2, JRR-3M (new JRR-3) and JRR-4. This report describes the activities of the department in fiscal year of 1997 and it also includes some of the technical topics on the works mentioned above. As for the research reactors, we carried out the operation, maintenance, the utilization of irradiation and neutron beam experiments, technical management including fuels and water chemistry, radiation monitoring as related R and D works. The international cooperations between the developing countries and the department were also made concerning the operation, utilization and safety analysis for nuclear facilities. (author)

Annual report of department of research reactor, 1995 (April 1, 1995 - March 31, 1996)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

1997-12-01

The Department of Research Reactor is responsible for the operation, maintenance, utilization and related R and D works of the research reactors including JRR-2, JRR-3M (new JRR-3) and JRR-4. This report describes the activities of our department in fiscal year of 1995 and it also includes some of the technical topics on the works mentioned above. As for the research reactors, we carried out the operation, maintenance, irradiation utilization, neutron beam experiments, technical management including fuels and water chemistry, radiation monitoring as related R and D works. The international cooperations between the developing countries and our department were also made concerning the operation, utilization and safety analysis for nuclear facilities. (author)

Annual report of Department of Research Reactor, 1996. April 1, 1996 - March 31, 1997

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

1998-03-01

The Department of Research Reactor is responsible for the operation, maintenance, utilization and related R and D works of the research reactors including JRR-2, JRR-3M (new JRR-3) and JRR-4. This report describes the activities of our department in fiscal year of 1996 and it also includes some of the technical topics on the works mentioned above. As for the research reactors, we carried out the operation, maintenance, irradiation utilization, neutron beam experiments, technical management including fuels and water chemistry, radiation monitoring as related R and D works. The international cooperations between the developing countries and our department were also made concerning the operation, utilization and safety analysis for nuclear facilities. (author)

Site Investigation for Detection of KIJANG Reactor Core Center

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kwon, Tae-Hyun; Kim, Jun Yeon; Kim, Jeeyoung [KAERI, Daejeon (Korea, Republic of)

2015-05-15

It was planned for the end of March 2017 and extended to April 2018 according to the government budget adjustment. The KJRR project is intended for filling the self-sufficiency of RI demand including Mo-99, increasing the NTD capacity and developing technologies related to the research reactor. In project, site investigation is the first activity that defines seismologic and related geologic aspects of the site. Site investigation was carried out from Oct. 2012 to Jan. 2014 and this study is intended to describe detail procedures in locating the reactor core center. The location of the reactor core center was determined by collectively reviewing not only geological information but also information from architects engineering. EL 50m was selected as ground level by levering construction cost. Four recommended locations (R-1a - R-1d) are displayed for the reactor core center. R-1a was found optimal in consideration of medium rock contour, portion of medium rock covering reactor buildings, construction cost, physical protection and electrical resistivity. It is noted that engineering properties of the medium rock is TCR/RQD 100/53, elastic modulus 7,710 - 8,720MPa, permeability coefficient 2.92E-06cm/s, and S-wave velocity 1,380m/s, sound for foundations of reactor buildings.

Compilation of reports of the Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards, 1957-1984. Volume 5. Generic Subjects H-R

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1985-04-01

This six-volume compilation contains over 1000 reports prepared by the Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards from September 1957 through December 1984. The reports are divided into two groups: Part 1: ACRS Reports on Project Reviews, and Part 2: ACRS Reports on Generic Subjects. Part 1 contains ACRS reports alphabetized by project name and within project name by chronological order. Part 2 categorizes the reports by the most appropriate generic subject area and within subject area by chronological order. This volume presents generic subjects arranged alphabetically from H to R

Nuclear research reactors in Brazil

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cota, Anna Paula Leite; Mesquita, Amir Zacarias, E-mail: aplc@cdtn.b, E-mail: amir@cdtn.b [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2011-07-01

The rising concerns about global warming and energy security have spurred a revival of interest in nuclear energy, giving birth to a 'nuclear power renaissance' in several countries in the world. Particularly in Brazil, in the recent years, the nuclear power renaissance can be seen in the actions that comprise its nuclear program, summarily the increase of the investments in nuclear research institutes and the government target to design and build the Brazilian Multipurpose research Reactor (BMR). In the last 50 years, Brazilian research reactors have been used for training, for producing radioisotopes to meet demands in industry and nuclear medicine, for miscellaneous irradiation services and for academic research. Moreover, the research reactors are used as laboratories to develop technologies in power reactors, which are evaluated today at around 450 worldwide. In this application, those reactors become more viable in relation to power reactors by the lowest cost, by the operation at low temperatures and, furthermore, by lower demand for nuclear fuel. In Brazil, four research reactors were installed: the IEA-R1 and the MB-01 reactors, both at the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas Nucleares (IPEN, Sao Paulo); the Argonauta, at the Instituto de Engenharia Nuclear (IEN, Rio de Janeiro) and the IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor, at the Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN, Belo Horizonte). The present paper intends to enumerate the characteristics of these reactors, their utilization and current academic research. Therefore, through this paper, we intend to collaborate on the BMR project. (author)

Nuclear research reactors in Brazil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cota, Anna Paula Leite; Mesquita, Amir Zacarias

2011-01-01

The rising concerns about global warming and energy security have spurred a revival of interest in nuclear energy, giving birth to a 'nuclear power renaissance' in several countries in the world. Particularly in Brazil, in the recent years, the nuclear power renaissance can be seen in the actions that comprise its nuclear program, summarily the increase of the investments in nuclear research institutes and the government target to design and build the Brazilian Multipurpose research Reactor (BMR). In the last 50 years, Brazilian research reactors have been used for training, for producing radioisotopes to meet demands in industry and nuclear medicine, for miscellaneous irradiation services and for academic research. Moreover, the research reactors are used as laboratories to develop technologies in power reactors, which are evaluated today at around 450 worldwide. In this application, those reactors become more viable in relation to power reactors by the lowest cost, by the operation at low temperatures and, furthermore, by lower demand for nuclear fuel. In Brazil, four research reactors were installed: the IEA-R1 and the MB-01 reactors, both at the Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas Nucleares (IPEN, Sao Paulo); the Argonauta, at the Instituto de Engenharia Nuclear (IEN, Rio de Janeiro) and the IPR-R1 TRIGA reactor, at the Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN, Belo Horizonte). The present paper intends to enumerate the characteristics of these reactors, their utilization and current academic research. Therefore, through this paper, we intend to collaborate on the BMR project. (author)

Transient cases analyses of the TRIGA IPR-R1 using thermal hydraulic and neutron kinetic coupled codes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Reis, Patricia A.L.; Costa, Antonella L.; Pereira, Claubia; Veloso, Maria A.F.; Scari, Maria E., E-mail: patricialire@yahoo.com.br, E-mail: antonella@nuclear.ufmg.br, E-mail: claubia@nuclear.ufmg.br, E-mail: dora@nuclear.ufmg.br, E-mail: melizabethscari@yahoo.com [Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil). Departamento de Engenharia Nuclear; Instituto Nacional de Ciencias e Tecnologia de Reatores Nucleares Inovadores (INCT/CNPq), Belo Horizonte (Brazil); Miro, Rafael; Verdu, Gumersindo, E-mail: rmiro@iqn.upv.es, E-mail: gverdu@iqn.upv.es [Universidad Politecnica de Valencia (Spain). Departamento de Ingenieria Quimica y Nuclear

2015-07-01

Simulations and analyses of nuclear reactors have been improved by utilization of coupled thermal-hydraulic (TH) and neutron kinetics (NK) system codes especially to simulate transients that involve strong feedback effects between NK and TH. The TH-NK coupling technique was initially developed and used to simulate the behavior of power reactors; however, several coupling methodologies are now being applied for research reactors. This work presents the coupling methodology application between RELAP5 and PARCS codes using as a model the TRIGA IPR-R1 research reactor. Analyses of steady state and transient conditions and comparisons with results from simulations using only the RELAP5 code are being presented in this paper. (author)

Gas-cooled fast breeder reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yoshida, Hiroyuki

1982-07-01

Almost all the R D works of gas-cooled fast breeder reactor in the world were terminated at the end of the year 1980. In order to show that the R D termination was not due to technical difficulties of the reactor itself, the present paper describes the reactor plant concept, reactor performances, safety, economics and fuel cycle characteristics of the reactor, and also describes the reactor technologies developed so far, technological problems remained to be solved and planned development schedules of the reactor. (author)

Improved Dechlorinating Performance of Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket Reactors by Incorporation of Dehalospirillum multivorans into Granular Sludge

Science.gov (United States)

Hörber, Christine; Christiansen, Nina; Arvin, Erik; Ahring, Birgitte K.

1998-01-01

Dechlorination of tetrachloroethene, also known as perchloroethylene (PCE), was investigated in an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor after incorporation of the strictly anaerobic, reductively dechlorinating bacterium Dehalospirillum multivorans into granular sludge. This reactor was compared to the reference 1 (R1) reactor, where the granules were autoclaved to remove all dechlorinating abilities before inoculation, and to the reference 2 (R2) reactor, containing only living granular sludge. All three reactors were fed mineral medium containing 3 to 57 μM PCE, 2 mM formate, and 0.5 mM acetate and were operated under sterile conditions. In the test reactor, an average of 93% (mole/mole) of the effluent chloroethenes was dichloroethene (DCE), compared to 99% (mole/mole) in the R1 reactor. The R2 reactor, with no inoculation, produced only trichloroethene (TCE), averaging 43% (mole/mole) of the effluent chloroethenes. No dechlorination of PCE was observed in an abiotic control consisting of sterile granules without inoculum. During continuous operation with stepwise-reduced hydraulic retention times (HRTs), both the test reactor and the R1 reactor showed conversion of PCE to DCE, even at HRTs much lower than the reciprocal maximum specific growth rate of D. multivorans, indicating that this bacterium was immobilized in the living and autoclaved granular sludge. In contrast, the R2 reactor, with no inoculation of D. multivorans, only converted PCE to TCE under the same conditions. Immobilization could be confirmed by using fluorescein-labeled antibody probes raised against D. multivorans. In granules obtained from the R1 reactor, D. multivorans grew mainly in microcolonies located in the centers of the granules, while in the test reactor, the bacterium mainly covered the surfaces of granules. PMID:9572963

Extensive utilization of training reactor VR-1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Karel, Matejka; Lubomir, Sklenka

2005-01-01

This paper describes one of the main purposes of the VR-1 training reactor utilisation - i.e. extensive educational programme. The educational programme is intended for the training of university students (all technical universities in Czech Republic) and selected nuclear power plant personnel. At the present, students can go through more than 20 different experimental exercises. An attractive programme including demonstration of reactor operation is prepared also for high school students. Moreover, research and development works and information programmes proceed at the VR-1 reactor as well

Enrichment of acetogenic bacteria in high rate anaerobic reactors under mesophilic and thermophilic conditions.

Science.gov (United States)

Ryan, P; Forbes, C; McHugh, S; O'Reilly, C; Fleming, G T A; Colleran, E

2010-07-01

The objective of the current study was to expand the knowledge of the role of acetogenic Bacteria in high rate anaerobic digesters. To this end, acetogens were enriched by supplying a variety of acetogenic growth supportive substrates to two laboratory scale high rate upflow anaerobic sludge bed (UASB) reactors operated at 37 degrees C (R1) and 55 degrees C (R2). The reactors were initially fed a glucose/acetate influent. Having achieved high operational performance and granular sludge development and activity, both reactors were changed to homoacetogenic bacterial substrates on day 373 of the trial. The reactors were initially fed with sodium vanillate as a sole substrate. Although % COD removal indicated that the 55 degrees C reactor out performed the 37 degrees C reactor, effluent acetate levels from R2 were generally higher than from R1, reaching values as high as 5023 mg l(-1). Homoacetogenic activity in both reactors was confirmed on day 419 by specific acetogenic activity (SAA) measurement, with higher values obtained for R2 than R1. Sodium formate was introduced as sole substrate to both reactors on day 464. It was found that formate supported acetogenic activity at both temperatures. By the end of the trial, no specific methanogenic activity (SMA) was observed against acetate and propionate indicating that the methane produced was solely by hydrogenotrophic Archaea. Higher SMA and SAA values against H(2)/CO(2) suggested development of a formate utilising acetogenic population growing in syntrophy with hydrogenotrophic methanogens. Throughout the formate trial, the mesophilic reactor performed better overall than the thermophilic reactor. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

RMB. The new Brazilian multipurpose research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Perrotta, Jose Augusto; Soares, Adalberto Jose

2015-01-01

Brazil has four research reactors (RR) in operation: IEA-R1, a 5 MW pool type RR; IPR-R1, a 100 kW TRIGA type RR; ARGONAUTA, a 500 W Argonaut type RR, and IPEN/MB-01, a 100 W critical facility. The first three were constructed in the 50's and 60's, for teaching, training, and nuclear research, and for many years they were the basic infrastructure for the Brazilian nuclear developing program. The last, IPEN/MB-01, is the result of a national project developed specifically for qualification of reactor physics codes. Considering the relative low power of Brazilian research reactors, with exception of IEAR1, none of the other reactors are feasible for radioisotope production, and even IEA-R1 has a limited capacity. As a consequence, since long ago, 100% of the Mo-99 needed to attend Brazilian nuclear medicine services has been imported. Because of the high dependence on external supply, the international Moly-99 supply crisis that occurred in 2008/2009 affected significantly Brazilian nuclear medicine services, and as presented in previous IAEA events, in 2010 Brazilian government formalized the decision to build a new research reactor. The new reactor named RMB (Brazilian Multipurpose Reactor) will be a 30 MW open pool type reactor, using low enriched uranium fuel. The facility will be part of a new nuclear research centre, to be built about 100 kilometres from Sao Paulo city, in the southern part of Brazil. The new nuclear research centre will have several facilities, to use thermal and cold neutron beams; to produce radioisotopes; to perform neutron activation analysis; and to perform irradiations tests of materials and fuels of interest for the Brazilian nuclear program. An additional facility will be used to store, for at least 100 years, all the fuel used in the reactor. The paper describes the main characteristics of the new centre, emphasising the research reactor and giving a brief description of the laboratories that will be constructed, It also presents the

RMB. The new Brazilian multipurpose research reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Perrotta, Jose Augusto; Soares, Adalberto Jose [Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear (CNEN) (Brazil)

2015-01-15

Brazil has four research reactors (RR) in operation: IEA-R1, a 5 MW pool type RR; IPR-R1, a 100 kW TRIGA type RR; ARGONAUTA, a 500 W Argonaut type RR, and IPEN/MB-01, a 100 W critical facility. The first three were constructed in the 50's and 60's, for teaching, training, and nuclear research, and for many years they were the basic infrastructure for the Brazilian nuclear developing program. The last, IPEN/MB-01, is the result of a national project developed specifically for qualification of reactor physics codes. Considering the relative low power of Brazilian research reactors, with exception of IEAR1, none of the other reactors are feasible for radioisotope production, and even IEA-R1 has a limited capacity. As a consequence, since long ago, 100% of the Mo-99 needed to attend Brazilian nuclear medicine services has been imported. Because of the high dependence on external supply, the international Moly-99 supply crisis that occurred in 2008/2009 affected significantly Brazilian nuclear medicine services, and as presented in previous IAEA events, in 2010 Brazilian government formalized the decision to build a new research reactor. The new reactor named RMB (Brazilian Multipurpose Reactor) will be a 30 MW open pool type reactor, using low enriched uranium fuel. The facility will be part of a new nuclear research centre, to be built about 100 kilometres from Sao Paulo city, in the southern part of Brazil. The new nuclear research centre will have several facilities, to use thermal and cold neutron beams; to produce radioisotopes; to perform neutron activation analysis; and to perform irradiations tests of materials and fuels of interest for the Brazilian nuclear program. An additional facility will be used to store, for at least 100 years, all the fuel used in the reactor. The paper describes the main characteristics of the new centre, emphasising the research reactor and giving a brief description of the laboratories that will be constructed, It also

Hydrogen production system coupled with high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTTR)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shiozawa, Shusaku

2003-01-01

On the HTTR program, R and D on nuclear reactor technology and R and D on thermal application technology such as hydrogen production and so on, are advanced. When carrying out power generation and thermal application such as hydrogen production and so on, it is, at first, necessary to supply nuclear heat safely, stably and in low cost, JAERI carries out some R and Ds on nuclear reactor technology using HTTR. In parallel to this, JAERI also carries out R and D for jointing nuclear reactor system with thermal application systems because of no experience in the world on high temperature heat of about 1,000 centigrade supplied by nuclear reactor except power generation, and R and D on thermochemical decomposition method IS process for producing hydrogen from water without exhaust of carbon dioxide. Here were described summaries on R and D on nuclear reactor technology, R and D on jointing technology using HTTR hydrogen production system, R and D on IS process hydrogen production, and comparison hydrogen production with other processes. (G.K.)

Stability analysis of the Ghana Research Reactor-1 (GHARR-1)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Della, R.; Alhassan, E.; Adoo, N.A.; Bansah, C.Y.; Nyarko, B.J.B.; Akaho, E.H.K.

2013-01-01

Highlights: • We developed a theoretical model to study the stability of the Ghana Research Reactor-1. • The neutronics transfer function was described by the point kinetics model for a single group of delayed neutrons. • The thermal hydraulics transfer function was based on the modified lumped parameter concept. • A computer code, RESA (REactor Stability Analysis) was developed. • Results show that the closed-loop transfer function was stable and well damped for variable operating power levels. - Abstract: A theoretical model has been developed to study the stability of the Ghana Research Reactor one (GHARR-1). The closed-loop transfer function of GHARR-1 was established based on the model, which involved the neutronics and the thermal hydraulics transfer functions. The reactor kinetics was described by the point kinetics model for a single group of delayed neutrons, whilst the thermal hydraulics transfer function was based on the modified lumped parameter concept. The inherent internal feedback effect due to the fuel and the coolant was represented by the fuel temperature coefficient and the moderator temperature coefficient respectively. A computer code, RESA (REactor Stability Analysis), entirely in Java was developed based on the model for systems analysis. Stability analysis of the open-loop transfer function of GHARR-1 based on the Nyquist criterion and Bode diagrams using RESA, has shown that the closed-loop transfer function was marginally stable for variable operating power levels. The relative stability margins of GHARR-1 were also identified

On the optimization of a steady-state bootstrap-reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Polevoy, A.R.; Martynov, A.A.; Medvedev, S.Yu.

1993-01-01

A commercial fusion tokamak-reactor may be economically acceptable only for low recirculating power fraction r 0 ≡ P CD /P α BS ≡I BS /I > 0.9 to sustain the steady-state operation mode for high plasma densities > 1.5 10 20 m -3 , fulfilled the divertor conditions. This paper presents the approximate expressions for the optimal set of reactor parameters for r BS /I∼1, based on the self-consistent plasma simulations by 1.5D ASTRA code. The linear MHD stability analysis for ideal n=1 kink and ballooning modes has been carried out to determine the conditions of stabilization for bootstrap steady state tokamak reactor BSSTR configurations. (author) 10 refs., 1 tab

Estimative of core damage frequency in IPEN'S IEA-R1 research reactor due to the initiating event of loss of coolant caused by large rupture in the pipe of the primary circuit

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hirata, Daniel Massami; Sabundjian, Gaiane; Cabral, Eduardo Lobo Lustosa

2009-01-01

The National Commission of Nuclear Energy (CNEN), which is the Brazilian nuclear regulatory commission, imposes safety and licensing standards in order to ensure that the nuclear power plants operate in a safe way. For licensing a nuclear reactor one of the demands of CNEN is the simulation of some accidents and thermalhydraulic transients considered as design base to verify the integrity of the plant when submitted to adverse conditions. The accidents that must be simulated are those that present large probability to occur or those that can cause more serious consequences. According to the FSAR (Final Safety Analysis Report) the initiating event that can cause the largest damage in the core, of the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN-CNEN/SP, is the LOCA (Loss of Coolant Accident). The objective of this paper is estimate the frequency of the IEA-R1 core damage, caused by this initiating event. In this paper we analyze the accident evolution and performance of the systems which should mitigate this event: the Emergency Coolant Core System (ECCS) and the isolated pool system. They will be analyzed by means of the event tree. In this work the reliability of these systems are also quantified using the fault tree. (author)

The Effect of Organic Loading Rate on Milk WastewaterTreatment Using Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Hooman Hajiabadi

2009-09-01

Full Text Available In this study, four aerobic sequencing batch reactors (SBRs were operated under the same conditions for the treatment of milk wastewater at different organic loading rates (OLRs. Cylindrical Plexiglas reactors were run for 56 days (including 21 days of acclimatization and 35 days of data gathering. Effective volume, influent wastewater flowrate, and sludge retention time (SRT of reactors were 5.5 L, 3.5 L/d, and 10 d, respectively. The average COD removal efficiency for the reactors R1, R2, R3, and R4 with influent OLRave values of 633, 929, 1915, and 3261 gCOD/m3d were 95, 96, 95, and 82 percent, respectively. The average effluent suspended solid (SS for all reactors was lower than 44 mg/L. Also, except for R4 with an average effluent turbidity of 270 NTU, other reactors met the Iranian wastewater emission standard (50 NTU. In addition, the average sludge volume index of reactors R1 to R3 was found to be lower than 67 mL/g. According to the results, the overall variation of COD removal efficiency versus influent OLR shows a decreasing rate with a correlation factor of 0.8 (R2.

Radio evidence for the initial stellar mass function in the R associations CMa R1, Mon R1, Mon R2

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pyatunina, T.B.

1985-01-01

The R associations CMa R1 and Mon R1 have been searched for compact 7.6-cm sources with the RATAN-600 radio telescope. The Mon R1 region shows only about the expected number of background radio galaxies; in CMa R1 seven sources of small angular size with S> or =30 mJy have been found, two of them probably background objects. Comparison with optical data for CMa R1, together with previous RATAN-600 data for Mon R2, yields an initial mass function xi(M)proportionalM/sup -2.7plus-or-minus0.7/ for the rather massive (Mroughly-equal10 M/sub sun/) stars in these associations

Estimation of radioactivity in structural materials of ETRR-1 reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Imam, M [National Center for Nuclear Safety and Radiation Control Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo (Egypt)

1997-12-31

Precise knowledge of the thermal neutron flux in the different structural materials of a reactor is necessary to estimate the radioactive inventory in these materials that are needed in any decommissioning study of the reactor. ETRR-1 is a research reactor that went critical on 2/1691. In spite of this long age of the reactor, the effective operation time of this reactor is very short since the reactor was shutdown for long periods. Because of this long age one may think of reactor decommissioning. For this purpose, the radioactivity of the reactor structural materials was estimated. Apart from the reactor core, the important structural materials in the ETRR-1 are the reactor tank, shielding concrete, and the graphite thermal column. The thermal neutron flux was determined by the monte Carlo method in these materials and the isotope inventory and the radioactivity were calculated by the international code ORIGEN-JR. 1 fig.

Compilation of reports of the Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards, 1957-1984. Volume 6. Generic Subjects R-Z, Appendices

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1985-04-01

This six-volume compilation contains over 1000 reports prepared by the Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards from September 1957 through December 1984. The reports are divided into two groups: Part 1: ACRS Reports on Project Reviews, and Part 2: ACRS Reports on Generic Subjects. Part 1 contains ACRS reports alphabetized by project name and within project name by chronological order. Part 2 categorizes the reports by the most appropriate generic subject area and within subject area by chronological order. This volume contains the generic subjects with an alphabetical listing from R to Z

The 5th surveillance testing for Kori unit 1 reactor vessel materials

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Chang, Kee Ok; Kim, Byoung Chul; Lee, Sam Lai; Choi, Kwun Jae; Gong, Un Sik; Chang, Jong Hwa; Joo, Yong Sun; Ahn, Sang Bok; Hong, Joon Hwa [Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Taejeon (Korea)

2000-08-01

Surveillance testing for reactor vessel materials is performed in order to evaluate the irradiation embrittlement due to neutrons during operation and set the condition of safe operation of nuclear reactor. The 5th surveillance testing was performed primarily by Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute and Westinhouse corporation partially involved in testing and calculation data evaluation in order to obtain reliable test result. Fast neutron fluences for capsule V, T, S, R and P were 5.087E+18, 1.115E+19, 1.228E+19, 2.988E+19, and 3.938E+19n/cm2, respectively. The bias factor, the ratio of calculation/measurement, was 0.940 for the 1st through 5th testing and the calculational uncertainty, 7% satisfied the requirement of USNRC Reg.Guide DG-1053, 20%. The best estimated neutron fluence for reactor vessel inside surface was 1.9846E+19n/cm{sup 2} based on the end of 17th fuel cycle and it was predicted that the fluences of vessel inside surface at 24, 32, 40 and 48EFPY would reach 3.0593E+19, 4.0695E+19, 5.0797E+19 and 6.0900E+19n/cm{sup 2} based on the current calculation. PTS analysis for Kori unit 1 showed that 27.93EFPY was the threshold value for 300 deg F requirement. 71 refs., 33 figs., 52 tabs. (Author)

The optimum operating conditions of the phased double-rotor facility at the et-R R-1 reactor. Vol. 2

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Naguib, K; Habib, N; Kilany, M; Adib, M [Reactor and Neutron Physics Department, Nuclear Research Center, AEA., Cairo (Egypt); Wahba, M [Dept. of Engineering Physics and Mathematics, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University, Cairo (Egypt)

1996-03-01

The pulsed neutron polyenergetic thermal beam at ET-R R-1 is produced by a phased double-rotor facility. One of the rotors has two diametrically opposite curved slots, while the second is designed to operate as a rotating collimator, the dimensions of the phased rotating collimator are selected to match the curved slot rotor. The calculated collimator transmissions at different operating conditions are found to be in good agreement with the experimental ones. The optimum operating conditions of double-rotor facility are deduced. The calculations were carried out using a computer programme RCOL. The RCOL was designed in Fortran-77 to operate on PCs. 6 figs.

The optimum operating conditions of the phased double-rotor facility at the et-R R-1 reactor. Vol. 2

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Naguib, K.; Habib, N.; Kilany, M.; Adib, M.; Wahba, M.

1996-01-01

The pulsed neutron polyenergetic thermal beam at ET-R R-1 is produced by a phased double-rotor facility. One of the rotors has two diametrically opposite curved slots, while the second is designed to operate as a rotating collimator, the dimensions of the phased rotating collimator are selected to match the curved slot rotor. The calculated collimator transmissions at different operating conditions are found to be in good agreement with the experimental ones. The optimum operating conditions of double-rotor facility are deduced. The calculations were carried out using a computer programme RCOL. The RCOL was designed in Fortran-77 to operate on PCs. 6 figs

Uranium hexafluoride reconversion used for dispersion fuel elements fabrication for IEAR-1/SP reactor; Reconversao de hexafluoreto de uranio para a fabricacao de combustiveis na forma de dispersoes para o reator IEA-R1/SP

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carvalho, E.F. Urano de; Lainetti, P.E.; Gomes, R.P. [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

1996-07-01

In this paper are described the main chemical process employed in the Chemical Processes Division of the Fuel Technology Department - IPEN for conversion of enriched UF{sub 6} in ammonium diuranate - DUA and uranium tetrafluoride - UF{sub 4}. These activities have assured the continuity of fuel elements production at IPEN since 1984. The uranium recovery from scraps of the fuel elements production and the purification processes are also described. Those compounds are important intermediate products in the fabrication routine and in development dispersed fuel elements with higher uranium loading for IEA{sub R}1 research reactor power increase program. (author)

Study of the IPR-R1 dynamics by means of reactivity pseudo-aleatory excitations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Roedel, G.

1983-01-01

Aiming to demonstrate the feasibility of using the reactor noise neutronic analysis tecniques a dynamic model was developed for the IPR-R1 reactor at CDTN. This model allows reactivity feedback, due to the variations of fuel and coolant temperature. The system was excited by the variations of reactivity modulated by a pseudo aleatory binary sequence and its answer was measured by means of the fluctuactions dround the stationary power. The model developed and the technique used was tested, and the values of the system parameters obtained from the adjustment of the theoretical and experimental transfer function were compared to another, obtained from independent process. (E.G.) [pt

Commissioning of the STAR test section for experimental simulation of loss of coolant accident using the EC-208 instrumented fuel assembly of the IEA-R1 reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Maprelian, Eduardo; Torres, Walmir M.; Prado, Adelk C.; Umbehaun, Pedro E.; Franca, Renato L.; Santos, Samuel C.; Macedo, Luiz A.; Sabundjian, Gaiane, E-mail: emaprel@ipen.br, E-mail: wmtorres@ipen.br, E-mail: acprado@ipen.br, E-mail: umbehaun@ipen.br, E-mail: rlfranca@ipen.br, E-mail: samuelcs@ipen.br, E-mail: lamacedo@ipen.br, E-mail: gdjian@ipen.br [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SO (Brazil)

2015-07-01

The three basic safety functions of Research Reactors (RR) are the safe shutdown of the reactor, the proper cooling of the decay heat of the fuel elements and the confinement of radioactive materials. Compared to Nuclear Power Reactors, RR power release is small, yet its three safety functions must be met to ensure the integrity of the reactor. During a loss of coolant accident (LOCA) in pool type RR, partial or complete loss of pool water may occur, with consequent partial or complete uncovering of the fuel assemblies. In such an accident, the decay heat removal safety function must not be compromised. The Test Section for Experimental Simulation of Loss of Coolant Accident (STAR) is in commissioning phase. This test section will provide experimental data on partial and total uncovering of the EC-208 instrumented fuel assembly (IFA) irradiated in the IEA-R1. Experimental results will be useful in validation of computer codes for RR safety analysis, particularly on heat removal efficiency aspects (safety function) in accident conditions. STAR comprises a base on which is installed the IFA, the cylindrical stainless steel hull, the compressed air system for the test section emptying and refilling, and the instrumentation for temperature and level measurements. The commissioning tests or pre-operational check, consist of several preliminary tests to verify experimental procedures, the difficulties during assembling of STAR in the pool, the difficulties in control the emptying and refilling velocities, as well as, the repeatability capacity, tests of equipment, valves and systems and tests of instrumentation and data acquisition system. Safety, accuracy and easiness of operation will be checked. (author)

Monte Carlo Modeling Electronuclear Processes in Cascade Subcritical Reactor

CERN Document Server

Bznuni, S A; Zhamkochyan, V M; Polyanskii, A A; Sosnin, A N; Khudaverdian, A G

2000-01-01

Accelerator driven subcritical cascade reactor composed of the main thermal neutron reactor constructed analogous to the core of the VVER-1000 reactor and a booster-reactor, which is constructed similar to the core of the BN-350 fast breeder reactor, is taken as a model example. It is shown by means of Monte Carlo calculations that such system is a safe energy source (k_{eff}=0.94-0.98) and it is capable of transmuting produced radioactive wastes (neutron flux density in the thermal zone is PHI^{max} (r,z)=10^{14} n/(cm^{-2} s^{-1}), neutron flux in the fast zone is respectively equal PHI^{max} (r,z)=2.25 cdot 10^{15} n/(cm^{-2} s^{-1}) if the beam current of the proton accelerator is k_{eff}=0.98 and I=5.3 mA). Suggested configuration of the "cascade" reactor system essentially reduces the requirements on the proton accelerator current.

Development of the fast reactor group constant set JFS-3-J3.2R based on the JENDL-3.2

CERN Document Server

Chiba, G

2002-01-01

It is reported that the fast reactor group constant set JFS-3-J3.2 based on the newest evaluated nuclear data library JENDL3.2 has a serious error in the process of applying the weighting function. As the error affects greatly nuclear characteristics, and a corrected version of the reactor constant set, JFS-3-J3.2R, was developed, as well as lumped FP cross sections. The use of JFS-3-J3.2R improves the results of analyses especially on sample Doppler reactivity and reaction rate in the blanket region in comparison with those obtained using the JFS-3-J3.2.

Nuclear reactors and fuel cycle

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2014-01-01

The Nuclear Fuel Center (CCN) of IPEN produces nuclear fuel for the continuous operation of the IEA-R1 research reactor of IPEN. The serial production started in 1988, when the first nuclear fuel element was delivered for IEA-R1. In 2011, CCN proudly presents the 100 th nuclear fuel element produced. Besides routine production, development of new technologies is also a permanent concern at CCN. In 2005, U 3 O 8 were replaced by U 3 Si 2 -based fuels, and the research of U Mo is currently under investigation. Additionally, the Brazilian Multipurpose Research Reactor (RMB), whose project will rely on the CCN for supplying fuel and uranium targets. Evolving from an annual production from 10 to 70 nuclear fuel elements, plus a thousand uranium targets, is a huge and challenging task. To accomplish it, a new and modern Nuclear Fuel Factory is being concluded, and it will provide not only structure for scaling up, but also a safer and greener production. The Nuclear Engineering Center has shown, along several years, expertise in the field of nuclear, energy systems and correlated areas. Due to the experience obtained during decades in research and technological development at Brazilian Nuclear Program, personnel has been trained and started to actively participate in design of the main system that will compose the Brazilian Multipurpose Reactor (RMB) which will make Brazil self-sufficient in production of radiopharmaceuticals. The institution has participated in the monitoring and technical support concerning the safety, licensing and modernization of the research reactors IPEN/MB-01 and IEA-R1. Along the last two decades, numerous specialized services of engineering for the Brazilian nuclear power plants Angra 1 and Angra 2 have been carried out. The contribution in service, research, training, and teaching in addition to the development of many related technologies applied to nuclear engineering and correlated areas enable the institution to fulfill its mission that is

Nuclear reactors and fuel cycle

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

2014-07-01

The Nuclear Fuel Center (CCN) of IPEN produces nuclear fuel for the continuous operation of the IEA-R1 research reactor of IPEN. The serial production started in 1988, when the first nuclear fuel element was delivered for IEA-R1. In 2011, CCN proudly presents the 100{sup th} nuclear fuel element produced. Besides routine production, development of new technologies is also a permanent concern at CCN. In 2005, U{sub 3}O{sub 8} were replaced by U{sub 3}Si{sub 2}-based fuels, and the research of U Mo is currently under investigation. Additionally, the Brazilian Multipurpose Research Reactor (RMB), whose project will rely on the CCN for supplying fuel and uranium targets. Evolving from an annual production from 10 to 70 nuclear fuel elements, plus a thousand uranium targets, is a huge and challenging task. To accomplish it, a new and modern Nuclear Fuel Factory is being concluded, and it will provide not only structure for scaling up, but also a safer and greener production. The Nuclear Engineering Center has shown, along several years, expertise in the field of nuclear, energy systems and correlated areas. Due to the experience obtained during decades in research and technological development at Brazilian Nuclear Program, personnel has been trained and started to actively participate in design of the main system that will compose the Brazilian Multipurpose Reactor (RMB) which will make Brazil self-sufficient in production of radiopharmaceuticals. The institution has participated in the monitoring and technical support concerning the safety, licensing and modernization of the research reactors IPEN/MB-01 and IEA-R1. Along the last two decades, numerous specialized services of engineering for the Brazilian nuclear power plants Angra 1 and Angra 2 have been carried out. The contribution in service, research, training, and teaching in addition to the development of many related technologies applied to nuclear engineering and correlated areas enable the institution to

Method development and validation for simultaneous determination of IEA-R1 reactor’s pool water uranium and silicon content by ICP OES

Science.gov (United States)

Ulrich, J. C.; Guilhen, S. N.; Cotrim, M. E. B.; Pires, M. A. F.

2018-03-01

IPEN’s research reactor, IEA-R1, an open pool type research reactor moderated and cooled by light water. High quality water is a key factor in preventing the corrosion of the spent fuel stored in the pool. Leaching of radionuclides from the corroded fuel cladding may be prevented by an efficient water treatment and purification system. However, as a safety management policy, IPEN has adopted a water chemistry control which periodically monitors the levels of uranium (U) and silicon (Si) in the pool’s reactor, since IEA-R1 employs U3Si2-Al dispersion fuel. An analytical method was developed and validated for the determination of uranium and silicon by ICP OES. This work describes the validation process, in a context of quality assurance, including the parameters selectivity, linearity, quantification limit, precision and recovery.

The awareness of the functional and near population with the relation to the research nuclear reactor IEA-R1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vanni, Silvia R.; Martins, Maria da Penha S.; Sabundjian, Gaiane

2011-01-01

After the natural accident that hit Japan in the beginning of March of 2011, and that ended into an accident of great proportions in the nuclear installations of Fukushima, it has now the debate over the lack of information that the population in general has over the nuclear energy. The dissemination of information, about the operation and security of the nuclear reactors, has the purpose of softening the effect that the pessimistic atmosphere has over its using. This study was reinforced by the memories of serious consequences due to other nuclear accidents that have already happened (Chernobyl, Three-Mile and Hiroshima/Nagasaki event), bringing insecurity, fear and even revenge from part of the public. Over all, people are not sufficiently informed about the positives and negatives aspects of the nuclear energy. It is necessary the adoption of a clear and aware policy with the population, about the pacific use of nuclear energy. Today, the international and national organizations of control of nuclear energy, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear (CNEN), have respectively, published information about this subject using a more professional way and of hard access for the public in general. This work has the goal of checking the level of information that the population of workers and individuals of the close public to the research nuclear reactor IEA-R1, located in the Institute of Nuclear Research (IPEN), University City, Sao Paulo, Brazil, has over it. The way used for this study, involved questionnaires with straight questions and of simple language over the subject, to people of all different social, economic and cultural classes, from 12 to 80 years old. From the results found after this work, it was verified the necessity to elaborate a project of awareness of information and clarification about the nuclear energy, using ways of communication that exist and that are easy for the public to understand. (author)

The awareness of the functional and near population with the relation to the research nuclear reactor IEA-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vanni, Silvia R.; Martins, Maria da Penha S. [Centro Tecnologico da Marinha (CTMSP), SP (Brazil); Sabundjian, Gaiane, E-mail: gdjian@ipen.b [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2011-07-01

After the natural accident that hit Japan in the beginning of March of 2011, and that ended into an accident of great proportions in the nuclear installations of Fukushima, it has now the debate over the lack of information that the population in general has over the nuclear energy. The dissemination of information, about the operation and security of the nuclear reactors, has the purpose of softening the effect that the pessimistic atmosphere has over its using. This study was reinforced by the memories of serious consequences due to other nuclear accidents that have already happened (Chernobyl, Three-Mile and Hiroshima/Nagasaki event), bringing insecurity, fear and even revenge from part of the public. Over all, people are not sufficiently informed about the positives and negatives aspects of the nuclear energy. It is necessary the adoption of a clear and aware policy with the population, about the pacific use of nuclear energy. Today, the international and national organizations of control of nuclear energy, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Comissao Nacional de Energia Nuclear (CNEN), have respectively, published information about this subject using a more professional way and of hard access for the public in general. This work has the goal of checking the level of information that the population of workers and individuals of the close public to the research nuclear reactor IEA-R1, located in the Institute of Nuclear Research (IPEN), University City, Sao Paulo, Brazil, has over it. The way used for this study, involved questionnaires with straight questions and of simple language over the subject, to people of all different social, economic and cultural classes, from 12 to 80 years old. From the results found after this work, it was verified the necessity to elaborate a project of awareness of information and clarification about the nuclear energy, using ways of communication that exist and that are easy for the public to understand. (author)

Isothermal (vapour + liquid) equilibrium for the binary {l_brace}1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (R134) + propane (R290){r_brace} and {l_brace}1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (R134) + isobutane (R600a){r_brace} systems

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Dong Xueqiang [Key Laboratory of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2711, Beijing 100190 (China); Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039 (China); Gong Maoqiong, E-mail: gongmq@mail.ipc.ac.c [Key Laboratory of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2711, Beijing 100190 (China); Liu Junsheng [Key Laboratory of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2711, Beijing 100190 (China); Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039 (China); Wu Jianfeng, E-mail: jfwu@mail.ipc.ac.c [Key Laboratory of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2711, Beijing 100190 (China)

2010-09-15

(Vapour + liquid) equilibrium (VLE) data for the binary systems of {l_brace}1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (R134) + propane (R290){r_brace} and {l_brace}1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (R134) + isobutane (R600a){r_brace} were measured with a recirculation method at the temperatures ranging from (263.15 to 278.15) K and (268.15 to 288.15) K, respectively. All of the data were correlated by the Peng-Robinson (PR) equation of state (EoS) with the Huron-Vidal (HV) mixing rules utilizing the non-random two-liquid (NRTL) activity coefficient model. Good agreement can be found between the experimental data and the correlated results. Azeotropic behaviour can be found at the measured temperature ranges for these two mixtures.

U.S. Status of Fast Reactor Research and Technology

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hill, Robert

2012-01-01

Summary: • Fast reactor R&D is focused on key technologies innovations for performance improvement (cost reduction) and safety: 1. System Integration and Concept Development; 2. Safety Technology; 3. Advanced Materials; 4. Ultrasonic Viewing; 5. Advanced Energy Conversion (Supercritical CO 2 Brayton cycle); 6. Reactor Simulation; 7. Nuclear Data; 8. Advanced Fuels. • Fast reactors have flexible capability for actinide management: – A wide variety of fuel cycle options are being considered; • International R&D collaboration pursued in Generation-IV and multilateral arrangements

R[ionuclide transport after the Chernobyl reactor accident and derivation of r[ioecological parameters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bonka, H.

1998-01-01

Since due to the nuclear reactor accident in Chernobyl r[ionuclides arrived in the vicinity of Aachen, the enhancement of the local dose rate, the deposition of the different r[ionuclides on ground and vegetation and the transport of the r[ionuclides into the environment were measured. Partly the measurements were continued until today. Very informative time sequences of the specific activity in grass, food, cow's milk, beef, in the different plants, trees, ploughed soil and undisturbed soil, mushrooms, game, in humans etc. resulted. During different private and official journeys in the old Laender of the Federal Republic of Germany surface covering measurements of the 134 Cs and 137 Cs activity deposited on grass land at different places were carried out. These data were implemented into a map on ground contamination in 1986 in Germany, published in 1991 by the Institute for Water, Soil and Air Hygiene of the Federal Public Health Department in Berlin. Transfer factors soil-grass were measured in the whole Federal Republic of Germany analyzing grass samples which were partly taken at the same time. A large amount of r[ioecological parameters could be derived from the different time sequences. These are in particular: The deposition velocity for iodine and particle bound r[ioanuclides on grass and in forests, the rainout coefficient in dependence of the precipitation intensity, the retention factors on grass, the biological half-life time on grass, the transfer factor soil-grass in dependence of time, the transfer factor food-milk during the pasture period and during stable stay, the transfer factor food-beef, the transfer factors in eatable mushrooms, the translocation factor of cesium in cereals etc. A multi-compartment model was developed to calculate the specific Cs activity in cow's milk and beef. The specific activity in milk can be calculated sufficiently exact using a simple single compartment model. The correlation of the specific Cs activity in spruce

Development of the Sodium-cooled Fast Reactor R and D and Technology Monitoring System

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lee, Dong Uk; Won, Byung Chool; Kim, Young In; Hahn, Do Hee

2008-01-01

This study presents a R and D performance monitoring system that is applicable for managing the generation IV sodium-cooled fast reactor development. The prime goal of this system is to furnish project manager with reliable and accurate information of status of progress, performance and resource allocation, and attain traceability and visibility of project implementation for effective project management. In this study, the work breakdown structure, the related schedule and the expected outputs were established to derive the interfaces between projects and the above parameters was loaded PCs. The R and D performance monitoring system is composed of about 750 R and D activities within 'Development of Basic Key Technologies for Gen IV SFR' project in 2007. The Microsoft Project Professional software was used to monitor the progress, evaluate the results and analyze the resource distribution to activities

Development of the Sodium-cooled Fast Reactor R and D and Technology Monitoring System

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lee, Dong Uk; Won, Byung Chool; Kim, Young In; Hahn, Do Hee

2008-01-15

This study presents a R and D performance monitoring system that is applicable for managing the generation IV sodium-cooled fast reactor development. The prime goal of this system is to furnish project manager with reliable and accurate information of status of progress, performance and resource allocation, and attain traceability and visibility of project implementation for effective project management. In this study, the work breakdown structure, the related schedule and the expected outputs were established to derive the interfaces between projects and the above parameters was loaded PCs. The R and D performance monitoring system is composed of about 750 R and D activities within 'Development of Basic Key Technologies for Gen IV SFR' project in 2007. The Microsoft Project Professional software was used to monitor the progress, evaluate the results and analyze the resource distribution to activities.

Operation characteristics and conditions of training reactor VR-1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Matejka, K.; Kolros, A.; Polach, S.; Sklenka, L.

1994-01-01

The first 3 years of operation of the VR-1 training reactor are reviewed. This period includes its physical start-up (preparation, implementation, results) and operation development as far as the current operating configuration of the reactor core. The physical start-up was commenced using a reactor core referred to as AZ A1, whose physical parameters had been verified by calculation and whose configuration was based on data tested experimentally on the SR-0 reactor at Vochov. The next operating core, labelled AZ A2, was already prepared during the test operation of the VR-1 reactor. Its configuration was such that both of the main horizontal channels, radial and tangential, could be employed. The configuration that followed, AZ A3, was an intermediate step before testing the graphite side reflector. The current reactor core, labelled AZ A3 G, was obtained by supplementing the previous core with a one-sided graphite side reflector. (Z.S.). 2 tabs., 11 figs., 2 refs

Flow distribution experimental study on the emergency core cooling system of the IEA-R1m - IPEN-CNEN/SP - Brazil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Torres, Walmir Maximo; Baptista Filho, Benedito Dias; Ting, Daniel Kao Sun

1999-01-01

This paper presents a brief description of Emergency Core Cooling System designed by the IEA-R1m Reactor and the experimental results of flow distribution over the core. Several parameters were evaluated, such as: relative position of spray header to the reactor core; type and quantity of spray nozzles; spray nozzles position on spray header; and total spray flow. The main conclusions are presented. (author)

Burnup measurements at the RECH-1 research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Henriquez, C.; Navarro, G.; Pereda, C.; Torres, H.; Pena, L.; Klein, J.; Calderon, D.; Kestelman, A.J.

2002-01-01

The Chilean Nuclear Energy Commission has decided to produce LEU fuel elements for the RECH-1 research reactor. During December 1998, the Fuel Fabrication Plant delivered the first four fuel elements, called leaders, to the RECH-1 reactor. The set was introduced into the reactor's core, following the normal routine, but performing a special follow-up on their behavior inside and outside the core. In order to measure the burn-up of the leader fuel elements, it was decided to develop a burn-up measurements system to be installed into the RECH-1 reactor pool, and to decline the use of a similar system, which operates in a hot cell. The main reason to build this facility was to have the capability to measure the burn-up of fuel elements without waiting for long decay period. This paper gives a brief description of the facility to measure the burn-up of spent fuel elements installed into the reactor pool, showing the preliminary obtained spectra and briefly discussing them. (author)

Simultaneous Coproduction of Hydrogen and Ethanol in Anaerobic Packed-Bed Reactors

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Cristiane Marques dos Reis

2014-01-01

Full Text Available This study evaluated the use of an anaerobic packed-bed reactor for hydrogen production at different hydraulic retention times (HRT (1–8 h. Two reactors filled with expanded clay and fed with glucose (3136–3875 mg L−1 were operated at different total upflow velocities: 0.30 cm s−1 (R030 and 0.60 cm s−1 (R060. The effluent pH of the reactors was maintained between 4 and 5 by adding NaHCO3 and HCl solutions. It was observed a maximum hydrogen production rate of 0.92 L H2 h−1 L−1 in R030 at HRT of 1 h. Furthermore, the highest hydrogen yield of 2.39 mol H2 mol−1 glucose was obtained in R060. No clear trend was observed by doubling the upflow velocities at this experiment. High ethanol production was also observed, indicating that the ethanol-pathway prevailed throughout the experiment.

The R and D issues necessary to achieve the safety design of commercialized liquid-metal cooled fast reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shoji, Kotake; Koji, Dozaki; Shigenobu, Kubo; Yoshio, Shimakawa; Hajime, Niwa; Masakazu, Ichimiya

2002-01-01

Within the framework of the feasibility study on commercialized fast reactor cycle systems (hereafter described as F/S), the safety design principle is investigated and several kinds of design studies are now in progress. Among the designs for liquid-metal cooled fast reactor (LMR), the advanced loop type sodium cooled fast reactor (FR) is one of the promising candidate as future commercialized LMR. In this paper, the safety related research and development (R and D) issues necessary to achieve the safety design are described along the defence-in-depth principle, taking account of not only the system characteristics of the advanced loop concepts but also design studies and R and D experiences so far. Safety issues related to the hypothetical core disruptive accidents (CDA) are emphasized both from the prevention and mitigation. A re-criticality free core concept with a special fuel assembly is pursued by performing both analytical and experimental efforts, in order to realize the rational design and to establish easy-to-understand safety logic. Sodium related issues are also given to ensure plant availability and to enhance the acceptability to the public. (authors)

In-service inspection of ET-RR-1 reactor vessels and spent fuel storage tank

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Khattab, M.; Shafy, M.; Konoplev, K.; Samodurve, YU.; Orlov, S.; Didenko, V.; Jackorev, O.

1993-01-01

Technical survey included in-service inspection are needed in order to investigate the structural integrity and to insure safe operation of the ET-R R-1 reactor after thirty years aging. An intensive work for the inspection of the inspection of the central tank, shield tank, horizontal channels, primary coolant circuit and spent fuel storage tank have been carried out. The inspection procedures were visual method using video camera and magnification optical as well as thickness measurements using ultrasonic gauge meter and replica for determining defect depth. Water chemical analysis of the primary cooling circuit and spent fuel storage were helpful in results explanation. The results showed that the reactor vessels have good surface conditions. The observed pitting did not affect the structural integrity. The majority of the defects were pits having maximum surface area of about 50 mm. Their depth does not exceed 2 mm. The pits depth rate penetration is of the order of 0.5% per year. Thickness measurements showed insignificant variation. Water status and its chemical properties are very important in controlling corrosion rate. 18 figs., 14 tabs

Tetrafluoroethane (R134a) hydrate formation within variable volume reactor accompanied by evaporation and condensation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jeong, K.; Choo, Y. S.; Hong, H. J.; Yoon, Y. S.; Song, M. H., E-mail: songm@dgu.edu [Department of Mechanical, Robotics, and Energy Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul 100-715 (Korea, Republic of)

2015-03-15

Vast size hydrate formation reactors with fast conversion rate are required for the economic implementation of seawater desalination utilizing gas hydrate technology. The commercial target production rate is order of thousand tons of potable water per day per train. Various heat and mass transfer enhancement schemes including agitation, spraying, and bubbling have been examined to maximize the production capacities in scaled up design of hydrate formation reactors. The present experimental study focused on acquiring basic knowledge needed to design variable volume reactors to produce tetrafluoroethane hydrate slurry. Test vessel was composed of main cavity with fixed volume of 140 ml and auxiliary cavity with variable volume of 0 ∼ 64 ml. Temperatures at multiple locations within vessel and pressure were monitored while visual access was made through front window. Alternating evaporation and condensation induced by cyclic volume change provided agitation due to density differences among water and vapor, liquid and hydrate R134a as well as extended interface area, which improved hydrate formation kinetics coupled with latent heat release and absorption. Influences of coolant temperature, piston stroke/speed, and volume change period on hydrate formation kinetics were investigated. Suggestions of reactor design improvement for future experimental study are also made.

Tetrafluoroethane (R134a) hydrate formation within variable volume reactor accompanied by evaporation and condensation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jeong, K.; Choo, Y. S.; Hong, H. J.; Yoon, Y. S.; Song, M. H.

2015-01-01

Vast size hydrate formation reactors with fast conversion rate are required for the economic implementation of seawater desalination utilizing gas hydrate technology. The commercial target production rate is order of thousand tons of potable water per day per train. Various heat and mass transfer enhancement schemes including agitation, spraying, and bubbling have been examined to maximize the production capacities in scaled up design of hydrate formation reactors. The present experimental study focused on acquiring basic knowledge needed to design variable volume reactors to produce tetrafluoroethane hydrate slurry. Test vessel was composed of main cavity with fixed volume of 140 ml and auxiliary cavity with variable volume of 0 ∼ 64 ml. Temperatures at multiple locations within vessel and pressure were monitored while visual access was made through front window. Alternating evaporation and condensation induced by cyclic volume change provided agitation due to density differences among water and vapor, liquid and hydrate R134a as well as extended interface area, which improved hydrate formation kinetics coupled with latent heat release and absorption. Influences of coolant temperature, piston stroke/speed, and volume change period on hydrate formation kinetics were investigated. Suggestions of reactor design improvement for future experimental study are also made

Nuclear R and D program in Indonesia and selection of future research reactor to support it

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Baiquni, A.; Subki, I.

1981-01-01

The nuclear R and D program selection decision is described as a phased program, each phase having its specific objective. The elements of each phase are identified and related with the objective, from which the activities of each element are also broadly outlined. To support the nuclear R and D program and to realize the objectives in each phase, the research facilities are also developed. A new nuclear development center housing a multipurpose reactor (MPR) and various laboratories are also described. The choice of the MPR and its criteria are also described briefly

Renewal of the operating licence and upgrading the reactor for continuing and improved service of the FIR 1 into the 2020'S

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Auterinen, I.; Salmenhaara, S.E.J.

2010-01-01

The FiR 1 reactor, a 250 kW TRIGA reactor, has been in operation since 1962. The current operating licence expires at the end of the year 2011. An application for a new operating licence will be submitted to the authorities by the end of the year 2010. The documents needed for the application will be prepared or revised during 2010. The long term strategy for FiR 1 has been updated. The continuation of the development of Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) cancer treatments is considered nationally and internationally important and even ethically necessary. Development of linear accelerators to substitute reactors as a neutron source for BNCT have started. Meanwhile development of BNCT to an established treatment for several cancers requires FiR 1 as a demonstration and reference facility at least until the end of year 2023. Upgrades for continuing and improved service into the 2020's are under consideration. These include planning for renewal of the instrumentation in the midway of the new licensing period. Preparations for a power upgrade during the next licensing period will also be made. Doubling the power to 500 kW will allow increasing the capacity for BNCT treatments by more than a factor of three, meeting the prospects of increased demand for these treatments, while still keeping the current capacity for radioisotope production, education and training. For the power upgrade two options are considered. The first option is to replace the old aluminium clad fuel still constituting close to half of the reactor core with new steel clad fuel suitable for higher power use. The other option is to use less new steel clad fuel by using old aluminium clad elements in low power density parts of the core. This option was already preliminarily studied in 2000 and now more detailed reactor physics and thermal hydraulics calculations using the most advanced codes in use at VTT will be performed to evaluate this option. The modelling work will be performed by the young

The French R and D programme for fast reactor fuel reprocessing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Auchapt, P.; Bourgeois, M.; Calame-Longjean, A.; Miquel, P.; Sauteron, J.

1979-01-01

The process employed is the Purex process adapted to the specific case of fast breeder reactor fuels. The results achieved have demonstrated that the aqueous method can be applied to these fuels: nearly ten years of operation in the ATl workshop which reprocesses RAPSODIE fuels, and the good results obtained at the Marcoule pilot facility on large batches of fuel attest to this achievement. The CEA effort continues principally on extrapolation to industrial scale, thanks mainly to experiments conducted on industrial prototypes and to the launching of the TOR project, which will, as of 1984, allow reprocessing of FBR fuels on a significant scale, and which will provide extensive additional resources for R and D activities

Experimental research in neutron physic and thermal-hydraulic at the CDTN Triga reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mesquita, Amir Z.; Souza, Rose Mary G.P.; Ferreira, Andrea V.; Pinto, Antonio J.; Costa, Antonio C.L.; Rezende, Hugo C., E-mail: amir@cdtn.b, E-mail: souzarm@cdtn.b, E-mail: avf@cdtn.b, E-mail: ajp@cdtn.b, E-mail: aclc@cdtn.b, E-mail: hcr@cdtn.b [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2011-07-01

The IPR-R1 TRIGA (Training, Research, Isotopes production, General Atomics) at Nuclear Technology Development Center (CDTN) is a pool type reactor cooled by natural circulation of light water and an open surface. TRIGA reactors, developed by General Atomics (GA), are the most widely used research reactor in the world and characterized by inherent safety. The IPR-R1 is the only Brazilian nuclear research reactor available and able to perform experiments in which interaction between neutronic and thermal-hydraulic areas occurs. The IPR-R1 has started up on November 11th, 1960. At that time the maximum thermal power was 30 kW. The present forced cooling system was built in the 70th and the power was upgraded to 100 kW. Recently the core configuration and instrumentation was upgraded again to 250 kW at steady state, and is awaiting the license of CNEN to operate definitely at this new power. This paper describes the experimental research project carried out in the IPR-R1 reactor that has as objective evaluate the behaviour of the reactor operational parameters, and mainly to investigate the influence of temperature on the neutronic variables. The research was supported by Research Support Foundation of the State of Minas Gerais (FAPEMIG) and Brazilian Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq). The research project meets the recommendations of the IAEA, for safety, modernization and development of strategic plan for research reactors utilization. This work is in line with the strategic objectives of Brazil, which aims to design and construct the Brazilian Multipurpose research Reactor (RMB). (author)

Experimental research in neutron physic and thermal-hydraulic at the CDTN Triga reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mesquita, Amir Z.; Souza, Rose Mary G.P.; Ferreira, Andrea V.; Pinto, Antonio J.; Costa, Antonio C.L.; Rezende, Hugo C.

2011-01-01

The IPR-R1 TRIGA (Training, Research, Isotopes production, General Atomics) at Nuclear Technology Development Center (CDTN) is a pool type reactor cooled by natural circulation of light water and an open surface. TRIGA reactors, developed by General Atomics (GA), are the most widely used research reactor in the world and characterized by inherent safety. The IPR-R1 is the only Brazilian nuclear research reactor available and able to perform experiments in which interaction between neutronic and thermal-hydraulic areas occurs. The IPR-R1 has started up on November 11th, 1960. At that time the maximum thermal power was 30 kW. The present forced cooling system was built in the 70th and the power was upgraded to 100 kW. Recently the core configuration and instrumentation was upgraded again to 250 kW at steady state, and is awaiting the license of CNEN to operate definitely at this new power. This paper describes the experimental research project carried out in the IPR-R1 reactor that has as objective evaluate the behaviour of the reactor operational parameters, and mainly to investigate the influence of temperature on the neutronic variables. The research was supported by Research Support Foundation of the State of Minas Gerais (FAPEMIG) and Brazilian Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq). The research project meets the recommendations of the IAEA, for safety, modernization and development of strategic plan for research reactors utilization. This work is in line with the strategic objectives of Brazil, which aims to design and construct the Brazilian Multipurpose research Reactor (RMB). (author)

Training and research on the nuclear reactor VR-1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Matejka, K.

1998-01-01

The VR-1 training reactor is a light water reactor of the pool type using enriched uranium as the fuel. The moderator is demineralized light water, which also serves as the neutron reflector, biological shielding, and coolant. Heat evolved during the fission process is removed by natural convection. The reactor is used in the education of students in the field of reactor and neutron physics, dosimetry, nuclear safety, and instrumentation and control systems for nuclear facilities. Although primarily intended for students in various branches of technology (power engineering, nuclear engineering, physical engineering), this specialized facility is also used by students of faculties educating future natural scientists and teachers. Typical tasks trained at the VR-1 reactor include: measurement of delayed neutrons; examination of the effect of various materials on the reactivity of the reactor; measurement of the neutron flux density by various procedures; measurement of reactivity by various procedures; calibration of reactor control rods by various procedures; approaching the critical state; investigation of nuclear reactor dynamics; start-up, control and operation of a nuclear reactor; and investigation of the effect of a simulated nucleate boil on reactivity. In addition to the education of university-level students, training courses are also organized for specialists in the Czech nuclear programme

Performance and management of IPR-R1 fuel elements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stasiulevicius, R.; Maretti Junior, F.

1983-01-01

The performance of fuel elements during the 23 years of the reactor operation, is presented aiming to introduce improvements in the fuel load distribution and consequent increase of the reactivity. A computer code CORE was developed aiming to calculate the individual burnup of the fuel elements and the value of the reactivity for several core configurations, establishing a routine to control the nuclear material in the IPR-R1. The values calculated were compared with the experimental results. Some alternatives to augment the reactivity of the present core are presented foreseeing the fuel load availability for operation with 100Km and, for angmenting the power reaction in a next stage. (E.G.) [pt

Applicability of base-isolation R ampersand D in non-reactor facilities to a nuclear reactor plant

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Seidensticker, R.W.; Chang, Y.W.

1990-01-01

Seismic isolation is gaining increased attention worldwide for use in a wide spectrum of critical facilities, ranging from hospitals and computing centers to nuclear power plants. While the fundamental principles and technology are applicable to all of these facilities, the degree of assurance that the actual behavior of the isolation systems is as specified varies with the nature of the facility involved. Obviously, the level of effort to provide such assurance for a nuclear power plant will be much greater than that required for, say, a critical computer facility. The question, therefore, is to what extent can research and development (R ampersand D) for non-nuclear use be used to provide technological data needed for seismic isolation of a nuclear power plant. This question, of course is not unique to seismic isolation. Virtually every structural component, system, or piece of equipment used in nuclear power plants is also used in non- nuclear facilities. Experience shows that considerable effort is needed to adapt conventional technology into a nuclear power plant. Usually, more thorough analysis is required, material and fabrication quality-control requirements are more stringent as are controls on field installation. In addition, increased emphasis on maintainability and inservice inspection throughout the life of the plant is generally required to gain acceptance in nuclear power plant application. This paper reviews the R ampersand D programs ongoing for seismic isolation in non-nuclear facilities and related experience and makes a preliminary assessment of the extent to which such R ampersand D and experience can be used for nuclear power plant application. Ways are suggested to improve the usefulness of such non-nuclear R ampersand D in providing the high level of confidence required for the use of seismic isolation in a nuclear reactor plant. 2 refs

Design Concept of Advanced Sodium-Cooled Fast Reactor and Related R&D in Korea

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Yeong-il Kim

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Korea imports about 97% of its energy resources due to a lack of available energy resources. In this status, the role of nuclear power in electricity generation is expected to become more important in future years. In particular, a fast reactor system is one of the most promising reactor types for electricity generation, because it can utilize efficiently uranium resources and reduce radioactive waste. Acknowledging the importance of a fast reactor in a future energy policy, the long-term advanced SFR development plan was authorized by KAEC in 2008 and updated in 2011 which will be carried out toward the construction of an advanced SFR prototype plant by 2028. Based upon the experiences gained during the development of the conceptual designs for KALIMER, KAERI recently developed advanced sodium-cooled fast reactor (SFR design concepts of TRU burner that can better meet the generation IV technology goals. The current status of nuclear power and SFR design technology development program in Korea will be discussed. The developments of design concepts including core, fuel, fluid system, mechanical structure, and safety evaluation have been performed. In addition, the advanced SFR technologies necessary for its commercialization and the basic key technologies have been developed including a large-scale sodium thermal-hydraulic test facility, super-critical Brayton cycle system, under-sodium viewing techniques, metal fuel development, and developments of codes, and validations are described as R&D activities.

Research and development of super light water reactors and super fast reactors in Japan

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Oka, Y.; Morooka, S.; Yamakawa, M.; Ishiwatari, Y.; Ikejiri, S.; Katsumura, Y.; Muroya, Y.; Terai, T.; Sasaki, K.; Mori, H.; Hamamoto, Y.; Okumura, K.; Kugo, T.; Nakatsuka, T.; Ezato, K.; Akasaka, N.; Hotta, A.

2011-01-01

Super Light Water Reactors (Super LWR) and Super Fast Reactors (Super FR) are the supercritical- pressure light water cooled reactors (SCWR) that are developed by the research group of University of Tokyo since 1989 and now jointly under development with the researchers of Waseda University, University of Tokyo and other organizations in Japan. The principle of the reactor concept development, the results of the past Super LWR and Super FR R&D as well as the R&D program of the Super FR second phase project are described. (author)

Anaerobic Digestion of Sugarcane Vinasse Through a Methanogenic UASB Reactor Followed by a Packed Bed Reactor.

Science.gov (United States)

Cabrera-Díaz, A; Pereda-Reyes, I; Oliva-Merencio, D; Lebrero, R; Zaiat, M

2017-12-01

The anaerobic treatment of raw vinasse in a combined system consisting in two methanogenic reactors, up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) + anaerobic packed bed reactors (APBR), was evaluated. The organic loading rate (OLR) was varied, and the best condition for the combined system was 12.5 kg COD m -3 day -1 with averages of 0.289 m 3 CH 4  kg COD r -1 for the UASB reactor and 4.4 kg COD m -3 day -1 with 0.207 m 3 CH 4  kg COD r -1 for APBR. The OLR played a major role in the emission of H 2 S conducting to relatively stable quality of biogas emitted from the APBR, with H 2 S concentrations <10 mg L -1 . The importance of the sulphate to COD ratio was demonstrated as a result of the low biogas quality recorded at the lowest ratio. It was possible to develop a proper anaerobic digestion of raw vinasse through the combined system with COD removal efficiency of 86.7% and higher CH 4 and a lower H 2 S content in biogas.

Computerized reactor monitor and control for nuclear reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Buerger, L.

1982-01-01

The analysis of a computerized process control system developed by Transelektro-KFKI-Videoton (Hangary) for a twenty-year-old research reactor in Budapest and or a new one in Tajura (Libya) is given. The paper describes the computer hardware (R-10) and the implemented software (PROCESS-24K) as well as their applications at nuclear reactors. The computer program provides for man-machine communication, data acquisition and processing, trend and alarm analysis, the control of the reactor power, reactor physical calculations and additional operational functions. The reliability and the possible further development of the computerized systems which are suitable for application at reactors of different design are also discussed. (Sz.J.)

The ARCHER project (Advanced High-Temperature Reactors for Cogeneration of Heat and Electricity R&D)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Knol, S., E-mail: knol@nrg.eu [Nuclear Research and consultancy Group (NRG), PO Box 25, NL-1755 ZG Petten (Netherlands); Fütterer, M.A. [Joint Research Centre, Institute for Energy, Petten (Netherlands); Roelofs, F. [Nuclear Research and consultancy Group (NRG), PO Box 25, NL-1755 ZG Petten (Netherlands); Kohtz, N. [TÜV Rheinland, Köln (Germany); Laurie, M. [Joint Research Centre, Institute for Transuranium elements, Karlsruhe (Germany); Buckthorpe, D. [UMAN, University of Manchester, Manchester (United Kingdom); Scheuermann, W. [IKE, Stuttgart University, Stuttgart (Germany)

2016-09-15

The European HTR R&D project ARCHER (Advanced High-Temperature Reactors for Cogeneration of Heat and Electricity R&D) builds on a solid HTR technology foundation in Europe, established through former national UK and German HTR programs and in European framework programs. ARCHER runs from 2011 to 2015 and targets selected HTR R&D subjects that would specifically support demonstration, with a focus on experimental effort. In line with the R&D and deployment strategy of the European Sustainable Nuclear Energy Technology Platform (SNETP) ARCHER contributes to maintaining, strengthening and expanding the HTR knowledge base in Europe to lay the foundations for demonstration of nuclear cogeneration with HTR systems. The project consortium encompasses conventional and nuclear industry, utilities, Technical Support Organizations, R&D organizations and academia. ARCHER shares results with international partners in the Generation IV International Forum and collaborates directly with related projects in the US, China, Japan, the Republic of Korea and South Africa. The ARCHER project has finished, and the paper comprises an overview of the achievements of the project.

Thermal and hydraulic characteristics of the JEN-1 Reactor; Caracteristicas hidraulicas y termicas del Reactor JEN-1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Otra Otra, F; Leira Rey, G

1971-07-01

In this report an analysis is made of the thermal and hydraulic performances of the JEN-1 reactor operating steadily at 3 Mw of thermal power. The analysis is made separately for the core, main heat exchanger and cooling tower. A portion of the report is devoted to predict the performances of these three main components when and if the reactor was going to operate at a power higher than the maximum 3 Mw attainable today. Finally an study is made of the unsteady operation of the reactor, focusing the attention towards the pumping characteristics and the temperatures obtained in the fuel elements. Reference is made to several digital calculation programmes that nave been developed for such purpose. (Author) 21 refs.

LASER-R a computer code for reactor cell and burnup calculations in neutron transport theory

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cristian, I.; Cirstoiu, B.; Dumitrache, I.; Cepraga, D.

1976-04-01

The LASER-R code is an IBM 370/135 version of the Westinghouse code, LASER, based on the THERMOS and MUFT codes developped by Poncelet. It can be used to perform thermal reactor cell calculations and burnup calculations. The cell exhibits 3-4 concentric areas: fuel, cladding, moderator and scattering ring. Besides directions for use, a short description of the physical model, numerical methods and output is presented

Fission product monitoring of TRISO coated fuel for the advanced gas reactor-1 experiment

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Scates, Dawn M.; Hartwell, John K.; Walter, John B.; Drigert, Mark W.; Harp, Jason M.

2010-01-01

The US Department of Energy has embarked on a series of tests of TRISO coated particle reactor fuel intended for use in the Very High Temperature Reactor (VHTR) as part of the Advanced Gas Reactor (AGR) program. The AGR-1 TRISO fuel experiment, currently underway, is the first in a series of eight fuel tests planned for irradiation in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) located at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). The AGR-1 experiment reached a peak compact averaged burnup of 9% FIMA with no known TRISO fuel particle failures in March 2008. The burnup goal for the majority of the fuel compacts is to have a compact averaged burnup greater than 18% FIMA and a minimum compact averaged burnup of 14% FIMA. At the INL the TRISO fuel in the AGR-1 experiment is closely monitored while it is being irradiated in the ATR. The effluent monitoring system used for the AGR-1 fuel is the Fission Product Monitoring System (FPMS). The FPMS is a valuable tool that provides near real-time data indicative of the AGR-1 test fuel performance and incorporates both high-purity germanium (HPGe) gamma-ray spectrometers and sodium iodide [NaI(Tl)] scintillation detector-based gross radiation monitors. To quantify the fuel performance, release-to-birth ratios (R/B's) of radioactive fission gases are computed. The gamma-ray spectra acquired by the AGR-1 FPMS are analyzed and used to determine the released activities of specific fission gases, while a dedicated detector provides near-real time count rate information. Isotopic build up and depletion calculations provide the associated isotopic birth rates. This paper highlights the features of the FPMS, encompassing the equipment, methods and measures that enable the calculation of the release-to-birth ratios. Some preliminary results from the AGR-1 experiment are also presented.

TR-EDB: Test Reactor Embrittlement Data Base, Version 1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Stallmann, F.W.; Wang, J.A.; Kam, F.B.K. [Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States)

1994-01-01

The Test Reactor Embrittlement Data Base (TR-EDB) is a collection of results from irradiation in materials test reactors. It complements the Power Reactor Embrittlement Data Base (PR-EDB), whose data are restricted to the results from the analysis of surveillance capsules in commercial power reactors. The rationale behind their restriction was the assumption that the results of test reactor experiments may not be applicable to power reactors and could, therefore, be challenged if such data were included. For this very reason the embrittlement predictions in the Reg. Guide 1.99, Rev. 2, were based exclusively on power reactor data. However, test reactor experiments are able to cover a much wider range of materials and irradiation conditions that are needed to explore more fully a variety of models for the prediction of irradiation embrittlement. These data are also needed for the study of effects of annealing for life extension of reactor pressure vessels that are difficult to obtain from surveillance capsule results.

TR-EDB: Test Reactor Embrittlement Data Base, Version 1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stallmann, F.W.; Wang, J.A.; Kam, F.B.K.

1994-01-01

The Test Reactor Embrittlement Data Base (TR-EDB) is a collection of results from irradiation in materials test reactors. It complements the Power Reactor Embrittlement Data Base (PR-EDB), whose data are restricted to the results from the analysis of surveillance capsules in commercial power reactors. The rationale behind their restriction was the assumption that the results of test reactor experiments may not be applicable to power reactors and could, therefore, be challenged if such data were included. For this very reason the embrittlement predictions in the Reg. Guide 1.99, Rev. 2, were based exclusively on power reactor data. However, test reactor experiments are able to cover a much wider range of materials and irradiation conditions that are needed to explore more fully a variety of models for the prediction of irradiation embrittlement. These data are also needed for the study of effects of annealing for life extension of reactor pressure vessels that are difficult to obtain from surveillance capsule results

Today's attitudes and future prospects of fast reactors in Italy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Barabaschi, S.; Cicognani, G.; Pierantoni, F.

1982-01-01

The Italian fast reactor programme is reviewed. The 15 year collaboration with France has resulted in the construction of the PEC reactor, development of the Superphenix-1 and a common R and D programme for future large fast reactors. The CNEN 4th five year (1980-84) plan is outlined. The budget breakdown for different areas shows the importance attached to the fast reactor. (U.K.)

Modernization and Refurbishment of the RECH-1 Reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Daie, J. [Nuclear Application Department, Chilean Nuclear Energy Commission (CCHEN), Santiago (Chile)

2014-08-15

The Chilean Nuclear Energy Commission (Comisión Chilena de Energía Nuclear, or CCHEN) has operated the RECH-1 research reactor since 1974. This reactor is located at La Reina Nuclear Centre in Santiago, Chile. It is a pool type reactor using LEU MTR fuel assemblies, light water as moderator and coolant, and beryllium as reflector. The reactor has been operated at the nominal power of 5 MW in a continuous shift of 20 hours per week, 48 weeks per year. The main utilizations of the RECH-1 reactor are radioisotope production and neutron activation analysis. Among the most relevant refurbishment and modernization campaigns undertaken at the reactor are: full core conversion to the use of LEU fuel, replacement of the cooling tower, improvement of the containment building by changing the doors and gates and by a better sealant for the penetrations, introduction of an additional source of water by connecting the raw water supply system to the emergency cooling system, improvement of the emergency ventilation system, introduction of a fire detection and alarm system for detection and mitigation to protect the I&C racks, introduction of a radioactive liquid release for those generated at the reactor, introduction of a delay tank degasification system and renewal of the environmental monitoring system. At present we are assessing the possibility of replacing the old analog electronics of control for new digital systems. Detailed descriptions of these diverse activities are presented in the paper. (author)

Extensive utilisation of VR-1 reactor for nuclear education and training

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rataj, J.

2010-01-01

The paper presents utilisation of the VR-1 reactor for nuclear education and training at national and international level. VR-1 reactor has been operating by the Czech Technical University since December 1990. The reactor is a pool-type light water reactor based on enriched uranium (19.7% 235 U) with maximum thermal power 1kW and for short time period up to 5kW. The moderator of neutrons is light water, which is also used as a reflector, a biological shielding and a coolant. Heat is removed from the core by natural convection. The pool disposition of the reactor facilitates access to the core, setting and removing of various experimental samples and detectors, easy and safe handling of fuel assemblies. The reactor core can contain from 17 to 21 fuel assemblies IRT-4M, depending on the geometric arrangement and kind of experiments to be performed in the reactor. The reactor is equipped with several experimental devices; e.g. horizontal, radial and tangential channels used to take out a neutron beam, reactivity oscillator for dynamics study and bubble boiling simulator. The reactor has been used very efficiently especially for education and training of university students and NPP's specialists for more than 18 years. The VR-1 reactor is utilised within various national and international activities such as Czech Nuclear Education Network (CENEN), European Nuclear Education Network and also Eastern European Research Reactor Initiative (EERRI). The reactor is well equipped for education and training not only by the experimental facility itself but also by incessant development of training methods and improvement of education experiments. The education experiments can be combined into training courses attended by students according to their study specialization and knowledge level. The training programme is aimed to the reactor and neutron physics, dosimetry, nuclear safety, and control of nuclear installations. Every year, approximately 250 university students undergo

Fault detection of sensors in nuclear reactors using self-organizing maps

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Barbosa, Paulo Roberto; Tiago, Graziela Marchi [Instituto Federal de Educacao, Ciencia e Tecnologia de Sao Paulo (IFSP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil); Bueno, Elaine Inacio [Instituto Federal de Educacao, Ciencia e Tecnologia de Sao Paulo (IFSP), Guarulhos, SP (Brazil); Pereira, Iraci Martinez, E-mail: martinez@ipen.b [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2011-07-01

In this work a Fault Detection System was developed based on the self-organizing maps methodology. This method was applied to the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN using a database generated by a theoretical model of the reactor. The IEA-R1 research reactor is a pool type reactor of 5 MW, cooled and moderated by light water, and uses graphite and beryllium as reflector. The theoretical model was developed using the Matlab Guide toolbox. The equations are based in the IEA-R1 mass and energy inventory balance and physical as well as operational aspects are taken into consideration. In order to test the model ability for fault detection, faults were artificially produced. As the value of the maximum calibration error for special thermocouples is +- 0.5 deg C, it had been inserted faults in the sensor signals with the purpose to produce the database considered in this work. The results show a high percentage of correct classification, encouraging the use of the technique for this type of industrial application. (author)

Fault detection of sensors in nuclear reactors using self-organizing maps

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Barbosa, Paulo Roberto; Tiago, Graziela Marchi; Bueno, Elaine Inacio; Pereira, Iraci Martinez

2011-01-01

In this work a Fault Detection System was developed based on the self-organizing maps methodology. This method was applied to the IEA-R1 research reactor at IPEN using a database generated by a theoretical model of the reactor. The IEA-R1 research reactor is a pool type reactor of 5 MW, cooled and moderated by light water, and uses graphite and beryllium as reflector. The theoretical model was developed using the Matlab Guide toolbox. The equations are based in the IEA-R1 mass and energy inventory balance and physical as well as operational aspects are taken into consideration. In order to test the model ability for fault detection, faults were artificially produced. As the value of the maximum calibration error for special thermocouples is +- 0.5 deg C, it had been inserted faults in the sensor signals with the purpose to produce the database considered in this work. The results show a high percentage of correct classification, encouraging the use of the technique for this type of industrial application. (author)

Annual report on JEN-1 and JEN-2 Reactors; Informe periodico de Reactores JEN-1 y JEN-2 correpondiente al ano 1972

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Montes Ponce de Leon, J.

1974-07-01

In the annual report on the JEN-1 and JEN-2 reactors the main fractures of the reactor operations and maintenance are described. The reactor has been in operation for 2188 hours, what means 74% of the total working time. Maintenance and periodical tests have occupied the rest of the time. Maintenance operations are shown according to three main subjects, the main failures so as the reactor scrams are also described. Different date relating with radiation level and health Physics are also included. (Author)

Rotary Bed Reactor for Chemical-Looping Combustion with Carbon Capture. Part 1: Reactor Design and Model Development

KAUST Repository

Zhao, Zhenlong

2013-01-17

Chemical-looping combustion (CLC) is a novel and promising technology for power generation with inherent CO2 capture. Currently, almost all of the research has been focused on developing CLC-based interconnected fluidized-bed reactors. In this two-part series, a new rotary reactor concept for gas-fueled CLC is proposed and analyzed. In part 1, the detailed configuration of the rotary reactor is described. In the reactor, a solid wheel rotates between the fuel and air streams at the reactor inlet and exit. Two purging sectors are used to avoid the mixing between the fuel stream and the air stream. The rotary wheel consists of a large number of channels with copper oxide coated on the inner surface of the channels. The support material is boron nitride, which has high specific heat and thermal conductivity. Gas flows through the reactor at elevated pressure, and it is heated to a high temperature by fuel combustion. Typical design parameters for a thermal capacity of 1 MW have been proposed, and a simplified model is developed to predict the performances of the reactor. The potential drawbacks of the rotary reactor are also discussed. © 2012 American Chemical Society.