Abstract
Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is introduced to optimize the control rod positions in a pressurized water reactor (PWR) core. The widely used 3D-IAEA benchmark problem is selected as the typical PWR core and the neutron flux field is solved. Besides, some additional thermal parameters are assumed to obtain the temperature distribution. Then the total and local entropy production is calculated to evaluate the energy dissipation. Using RSM, three directions of optimization are taken, which aim to determine the minimum of power peak factor Pmax, peak temperature Tmax and total entropy production Stot. These parameters reflect the safety and energy dissipation in the core. Finally, an optimization scheme was obtained, which reduced Pmax, Tmax and Stot by 23%, 8.7% and 16%, respectively. The optimization results are satisfactory.
Highlights
In China, energy consumption has grown rapidly driven by the improvement of the economic level
The neutron diffusion equations and heat transfer equations are all solved by Finite Volume Method (FVM)
A typical pressurized water reactor (PWR) reactor core based on the 3D-International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) problem is taken to be analysed
Summary
In China, energy consumption has grown rapidly driven by the improvement of the economic level. In order to balance economic development and environmental protection, China’s government has established a green development strategy. An important measure is to adjust the energy structure and promote the consumption of clean energy sources such as nuclear energy. The use of nuclear energy increased from 44.19 billion kWh in 2000 to 290.75 billion kWh in 2013 [1], and 26 nuclear power units (28,528 MWe) are currently under construction in China [2,3]. The design of a nuclear reactor system includes shielding design, thermodynamics, fluid flow and heat transfer, fuel element design, radioactivity releases, etc. The neutron flux density and its distribution are usually the primary target.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
