Heat transfer of a nuclear reactor containment spray drop

Abstract

Heat transfer rates to spray droplets under the conditions of a LOCA in a LWR have been evaluated by systematic solution of the governing partial differential equations subject to appropriate initial and boundary conditions. The numerical calculations are based on new correlations. The computations have been facilitated through the use of an efficient hybrid-difference scheme. Results have been provided for the average heat transfer and for the effects of the drop-size, droplet spray angle, initial injection velocity, the containment temperature and pressure on the heat transfer to the drop. The drop fall-heights before attaining thermal equilibrium with the containment atmosphere have been predicted for various conditions. The importance of accurately calculating the drag associated with a moving drop experiencing condensation has been discussed in the context of developing the results.