Startup Thermal Analysis of a High-Temperature Supercritical-Pressure Light Water Reactor

Abstract

The startup systems of a high-temperature supercritical-pressure light-water-cooled thermal reactor (SCLWR-H), in which the core outlet temperature is 500°C and downward-flowing water rods are used as moderators, are studied by thermal-hydraulic analysis. The thermal analyses are carried out for various startup phases and detailed procedures for these phases are investigated. In constant pressure startup system, the reactor starts at supercritical pressure. A flash tank and pressure-reducing valves are necessary. The flash tank is designed so that the moisture content in the steam is less than 0.1%. In sliding pressure startup system, the reactor starts at subcritical pressure. A steam-water separator and a drain tank are required. The separator is designed by referring to those of supercritical fossil-fired power plants (FPPs). The maximum cladding surface temperature is restricted not to exceed the rated value of 620°C. The minimum flow rate is 25% for constant pressure startup and 35% for sliding pressure startup. Both constant pressure and sliding pressure startup systems are found feasible from thermal analysis. Because of lower flow rate than SCFR, of which the core outlet temperature is about 430°C, the component weight required is reduced in SCLWR-H. The sliding pressure startup system should be used to reduce the component weight and to simplify the plant system.