A multi-physics solver for liquid-fueled fast systems based on the discontinuous Galerkin FEM discretization

Journal Article (2020)
Author(s)

M. Tiberga (TU Delft - RST/Reactor Physics and Nuclear Materials)

D. Lathouwers (TU Delft - RST/Reactor Physics and Nuclear Materials)

Jan-Leen Kloosterman (TU Delft - RST/Radiation, Science and Technology)

Research Group
RST/Reactor Physics and Nuclear Materials
Copyright
© 2020 M. Tiberga, D. Lathouwers, J.L. Kloosterman
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pnucene.2020.103427
More Info
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Publication Year
2020
Language
English
Copyright
© 2020 M. Tiberga, D. Lathouwers, J.L. Kloosterman
Research Group
RST/Reactor Physics and Nuclear Materials
Volume number
127
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Abstract

Performing accurate numerical simulations of molten salt reactors is challenging, especially in case of fast-spectrum designs, due to the unique physics phenomena characterizing these systems. The limitations of codes traditionally used in the nuclear community often require the development of novel high-fidelity multi-physics tools to advance the design of these innovative reactors. In this work, we present the most recent code developed at Delft University of Technology for multi-physics simulations of liquid-fueled fast reactors. The coupling is realized between an incompressible RANS model and an SN neutron transport solver. The models are implemented in two in-house codes, based on the discontinuous Galerkin Finite Element discretization, which guarantees high-quality of the solution. We report and discuss the results of preliminary simulations of the Molten Salt Fast Reactor at steady-state and during a Total Loss of Power transient. Results prove our code has capabilities for steady-state and transient analysis of non-moderated liquid-fueled reactors.