Loading beryllium targets to extend the high flux isotope reactor’s cycle length

Abstract

Various arrangements of beryllium loadings to create an internal neutron reflector in the flux trap region of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) have been investigated. In particular, the impact upon fuel cycle length has been studied by performing calculations using the HFIR MCNP-based model HFV4.0. This study included examining perturbations in reactivity, flux, and power distribution caused by the various beryllium loadings. The HFIR Cycle 400 core configuration was used as a reference to calculate the impact of beryllium loadings upon cycle length. Three different configurations of beryllium loadings were investigated and compared against the Cycle 400 benchmark calculations; Cases 1 through 3 modeled combinations of 12 and 18 beryllium rods loaded into unused experimental sites. Calculated eigenvalues have shown that potential increases in reactivity between 0.56 and 0.79 dollars are attainable, depending on the various beryllium configurations. These results correspond to possible increases in fuel cycle length ranging between 2.3% and 3.3%. On the basis of their practicality, cost versus benefit, and greater potential for implementation, Cases 2 and 3 (both with 18 beryllium rods) were studied further and are herein reported in greater detail. Neutron flux distributions for Cases 2 and 3 were calculated at the horizontal mid-plane of the flux trap region, which showed no significant changes in the thermal flux magnitude and radial profile in comparison to Cycle 400. Likewise, safety analysis related parameters were contrasted, revealing power increments of up to 2% near the inside edge of the inner fuel element, well below the maximum acceptable value of 9%, a standing guideline employed for experiments at the HFIR. Additionally, the average neutron heat generation rate in beryllium rods and the maximum heat generation rate were evaluated to confirm that the design provides adequate coolant flow inside the rod and around the beryllium targets to carry away any excess heat. Case 2 with 18 beryllium rods was recommended for implementation at the HFIR. In fact, funding has been allocated for this project and beryllium rod fabrication is scheduled. The proposed beryllium loading does not involve permanent design changes and is predicted to yield a meaningful increase in fuel cycle length that could translate into potential annual savings in direct fuel costs of approximately $235,000, or of more than five million dollars over the projected life of this reactor.