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http://dx.doi.org/10.5516/NET.2009.41.5.561

SEVERE ACCIDENT MANAGEMENT CONCEPT OF THE VVER-1000 AND THE JUSTIFICATION OF CORIUM RETENTION IN A CRUCIBLE-TYPE CORE CATCHER  

Khabensky, Vladimir Benzianovich (Alexandrov Scientific Research Institute of Technology (NITI))
Granovsky, Vladimir Semenovich (Alexandrov Scientific Research Institute of Technology (NITI))
Bechta, Sevostian Victorovich (Alexandrov Scientific Research Institute of Technology (NITI))
Gusarov, Victor Vlasmirovich (St. Petersburg State Electrotechnical University)
Publication Information
Nuclear Engineering and Technology / v.41, no.5, 2009 , pp. 561-574 More about this Journal
Abstract
First ex-vessel core catcher has been applied to the practical design of NPPs with VVER-1000 reactors built in China (Tyanvan) and India (Kudankulam) for severe accident management (SAM) and mitigation of SA consequences. The paper presents the concept and basic design of this crucible-type core catcher as well as an evaluation of its efficiency. The important role of oxidic sacrificial material is discussed. Insight into the behaviour of the molten pool, which forms in the catcher after core relocation from the reactor vessel, is provided. It is shown that heat loads on the water-cooled vessel walls are kept within acceptable limits and that the necessary margins for departure from nucleate boiling (DNB) and of vessel failure caused by thermo-mechanical stress are satisfactorily provided for.
Keywords
VVER Reactor; Severe Accident; Core Melting; Ex-vessel Core Catcher; Melt Retention;
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