The In-Vessel Core Retention Strategy (IVCRS) is proposed as an innovative and complementary approach to the currently adopted ex-vessel core melt management. Within the frame of an international cooperation CEA (F) and ENEA (I) have performed some preliminary calculations, aimed at identifying the lacks and the needs of the analytical models available for a comprehensive assessment of an IVCRS technical solution. For this purpose, a best estimate approach has been adopted for the theoretical assessment of the Dual In-Vessel Retention (DIVER) concept, proposed by CEA for high power PWRs. Such concept combines the two strategies which have been investigated up to now for future reactors: external cooling of the RPV and presence of a core catcher inside. Both generic phenomena involved in a IVCRS (e.g. behavior of the corium pool) and specific phenomena associated to the coolability of the particular concept studied (gap between the crucible and the RPV wall) have been taken into account. The calculations have been performed with best estimate French codes under CEA supervision.
Preliminary Assessment of an In-Vessel Core Retention Strategy Using Best Estimate Tools
Meloni, P.
2000-04-02
Abstract
The In-Vessel Core Retention Strategy (IVCRS) is proposed as an innovative and complementary approach to the currently adopted ex-vessel core melt management. Within the frame of an international cooperation CEA (F) and ENEA (I) have performed some preliminary calculations, aimed at identifying the lacks and the needs of the analytical models available for a comprehensive assessment of an IVCRS technical solution. For this purpose, a best estimate approach has been adopted for the theoretical assessment of the Dual In-Vessel Retention (DIVER) concept, proposed by CEA for high power PWRs. Such concept combines the two strategies which have been investigated up to now for future reactors: external cooling of the RPV and presence of a core catcher inside. Both generic phenomena involved in a IVCRS (e.g. behavior of the corium pool) and specific phenomena associated to the coolability of the particular concept studied (gap between the crucible and the RPV wall) have been taken into account. The calculations have been performed with best estimate French codes under CEA supervision.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
