Final Report on Improved Uranium Utilization in PWRs
Author | : Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Energy Laboratory |
Publisher | : |
Total Pages | : 73 |
Release | : 1982 |
ISBN-10 | : OCLC:10661923 |
ISBN-13 | : |
Rating | : 4/5 (23 Downloads) |
Book excerpt: This is the final summary progress report on a research program carried out within the MIT Energy Laboratory/Nuclear Engineering Department under the US Department of Energy's program to increase the effectiveness of uranium utilization in light water reactors on the once-through fuel cycle. Two major themes, methodology and applications, characterize the research. A simple built accurate set of algorithms, designated as "the linear reactivity method" were developed to permit self-consistent evaluations of a broad spectrum of changes in core design and fuel management tactics. More than a dozen suggested improvements were then evaluated, focusing primarily on retrofittable modifications and pressurized water reactors. In common with the findings of many other investigators, high burnup and routine end-of-cycle coastdown were identified as preferred options.