A Methodology for Flow Blockage Detection in Boiling or Subcooled CANDU Reactor Channels

Abstract

A methodology for flow blockage detection in boiling or subcooled CANDU reactor channels is presented here. The detection method utilizes the measurement of differential pressure across the fuel channel during fuelling. The safe operational limits of a fuel channel under flow blockage conditions can be assessed by means of a flow blockage map. The potential for flow related instabilities and their effects on flow blockage detection are considered.