Cara Development: An Argentinean Fuel Cycle Challenge
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Abstract
The CARA is an advanced fuel element for pressurized heavy water reactors
(PHWR). The present degree of its development is presented. The design allows
extended burnup with good thermal hydraulic margins using a single fuel rod diameter. An additional assembly system enables the use into PHWR vertical channel reactors. The mechanical feasibility for Atucha I and Embalse, and the hydraulic compatibility were checked, verifying that the CARA can fit the Argentinean challenge: a single fuel element for two different PHWR. CARA prototypes are under fabrication with new spacer grid designs and enhanced welding between end plates and fuel rods.
(PHWR). The present degree of its development is presented. The design allows
extended burnup with good thermal hydraulic margins using a single fuel rod diameter. An additional assembly system enables the use into PHWR vertical channel reactors. The mechanical feasibility for Atucha I and Embalse, and the hydraulic compatibility were checked, verifying that the CARA can fit the Argentinean challenge: a single fuel element for two different PHWR. CARA prototypes are under fabrication with new spacer grid designs and enhanced welding between end plates and fuel rods.
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