Impact Strength Analysis of CANFLEX Fuel During CANDU-6 Normal Refueling

Abstract

A finite-element (FE) model was developed to simulate out-reactor CANDU fuel string impact tests with use of the structural analysis computer code ABAQUS. The FE model takes into account the deflection of fuel elements, and stress and displacement in endplates that are subjected to the normal refueling impact in CANDU-6 reactor. It was adapted to the conditions of the out-reactor impact tests performed with CANFLEX 43-element bundles. In overall judgment, the three dimensional analysis results are well agreed with the test results. With use of the FE model, the dynamic behavior such as stress propagation along the fuel string, whole model energy history and acceleration history of the fuel bundle string subjected to the normal refueling impact was investigated, interaction between the fuel elements was estimated and the overall integrity of the fuel bundles was assessed.