Qualification of FEAST 3.0 and FEAT 4.0 Computer Codes

Abstract

FEAST (Finite Element Analysis for Stresses) is an AECL computer code used to assess the structural integrity of the CANDU fuel element. FEAST models the thermoelastic, thermo-elasto-plastic and creep deformations in CANDU fuel. FEAT (Finite Element Analysis for Temperature) is another AECL computer code and is used to assess the thermal integrity of fuel elements. FEAT models the steady-state and transient heat flows in CANDU fuel, under conditions such as flux depression, end flux peaking, temperature-dependent thermal conductivity, and non-uniform time-dependent boundary conditions. Both computer programs are used in design and qualification analyses of CANDU fuel. Formal qualifications (including coding verification and validation) of both codes were performed, in accordance with AECL software quality assurance (SQA) manual and procedures that are consistent with CSA N286.7-99. Validation of FEAST 3.0 shows very good agreement with independent analytical solutions or measurements. Validation of FEAT 4.0 also shows very good agreement with independent WIMS-AECL calculations, analytical solutions, ANSYS calculations and measurement.