Turbulence-induced vibrations prediction through use of an anisotropic pressure fluctuation model

Journal Article (2023)
Author(s)

Nout Van Den Bos (NRG (Nuclear Research and Consultancy Group) Petten)

Kevin Zwijsen (NRG (Nuclear Research and Consultancy Group) Petten)

A.H. van Zuijlen (TU Delft - Aerodynamics)

Edo M.A. Frederix (NRG (Nuclear Research and Consultancy Group) Petten)

Ferry Roelofs (NRG (Nuclear Research and Consultancy Group) Petten)

Research Group
Aerodynamics
Copyright
© 2023 N. van den Bos, Kevin Zwijsen, A.H. van Zuijlen, Edo M.A. Frederix, Ferry Roelofs
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.1051/epjn/2022050
More Info
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Publication Year
2023
Language
English
Copyright
© 2023 N. van den Bos, Kevin Zwijsen, A.H. van Zuijlen, Edo M.A. Frederix, Ferry Roelofs
Research Group
Aerodynamics
Volume number
9
Reuse Rights

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Abstract

In nuclear fuel rod bundles, turbulence-induced pressure fluctuations caused by an axial flow can create small but significant vibrations in the fuel rods, which in turn can cause structural effects such as material fatigue and fretting wear. Fluid-structure interaction simulations can be used to model these vibrations, but for affordable simulations based on the URANS approach, a model for the pressure fluctuations must be utilised. Driven by the goal to improve the current state-of-the-art pressure fluctuation model, AniPFM (Anisotropic Pressure Fluctuation Model) was developed. AniPFM can model velocity fluctuations based on anisotropic Reynolds stress tensors, with temporal correlation through the convection and decorrelation of turbulence. From these velocity fluctuations and the mean flow properties, the pressure fluctuations are calculated. The model was applied to several test cases and shows promising results in terms of reproducing qualitatively similar flow structures, as well as predicting the root-mean-squared pressure fluctuations. While further validation is being performed, the AniPFM has already demonstrated its potential for affordable simulations of turbulence-induced vibrations in industrial nuclear applications.