Physics Experiments in the Zed-2 Reactor Using CANFLEX-RU

Abstract

This paper describes experiments performed in ZED-2 that provide data appropriate for validating code predictions used for the purpose of safety analyses and qualification of the use of CANFLEX-RU fuel in CANDU®. The experiments involved the substitution of CANFLEX-RU test assemblies into a natural-uranium reference lattice.The experimental test components are: 1) Substitution of D2O-cooled CANFLEX-RU fuel at room temperature, 2) Substitution of air-cooled CANFLEX-RU fuel at room temperature, and 3) Effect of heating channels containing CANFLEX-RU bundles from 25 to 300oC. Experimental results are presented and discussed.