A Script for the Automated Coupling of Neutronics and Thermalhydraulics Codes for the Simulation of Fast Transients

Abstract

This paper describes the 'rfspcb' Perl script which has been developed to automate the coupled neutronics-thermalhydraulics analyses of large-break loss-of-coolant accidents (LOCAs) using the Reactor Fuelling Simulation Program (RFSP) and the CATHENA code. The automation is useful for increasing the speed, quality and efficiency of large-break LOCA analyses. The background for large-break LOCA analyses and the automation of such analyses are discussed as an introduction to a description of the Perl script itself. The role of ‘rfspcb’ and its structure are covered in this context. The handling of run-time errors and the increased reliability of the runs are also discussed. This paper describes the application of industry-wide safety-analysis quality-assurance standards to the ‘rfspcb’ Perl script and to associated runs. A modification of this script is in use to calculate shutoff-rod-drop transients for comparison with site measurements. Another modification is being used for testing the new *CERBRRS module of RFSP. This script has already been used for both CANDU 6 and CANDU 9 analyses, as well as for testing the new Simple-Cell Model (SCM) capability in the *CERBERUS module of RFSP. These applications are also covered in this paper.