Fuel String Thermal Expansion at Refurbished Point Lepreau Generating Station

Abstract

AECL has undertaken a multi-disciplinary analysis and design task that examines the axial expansion of the fuel string during postulated accidents for the refurbished Point Lepreau Generating Station. During refurbishment at the Point Lepreau Generating Station the fuel channels will be replaced. The replacement fuel channel includes a change to the axial location of the shield plugs that will increase the initial axial gap between the fuel and shield plugs compared to the existing design. The analysis has demonstrated that the replacement fuel channel axial gap between the fuel string and the shield plugs is sufficient to preclude any constrained expansion during postulated critical accidents. Fuel channel integrity with respect to fuel string axial expansion is therefore assured for safety defence-in-depth with design and analysis support.