Plant response of the MSRE following the loss of circulating bubbles at the pump bowl in the first hour. (IMAGE)
Caption
The new coupled model is applied to reveal the unique power-to-flowrate and power-to-void frequency responses of the MSRE. In addition, plant responses during the unique initiating events of off-gas system blockage and loss of circulating voids are simulated. It is shown that the slow reactivity changes related to xenon poisoning during these events do not threaten the reactor's stability and safety. However, the immediate reactivity change during loss-of-void event could cause a notable power peaking at low operational powers.
This study offers a robust and extensible platform for investigating control strategies, system stability, and safety margins in advanced reactor designs. As global demand for flexible, low-carbon nuclear energy rises, this model provides a valuable foundation for the analysis, design, and licensing of next-generation molten salt reactors.
Credit
Jia-Qi Chen
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Credit must be given to the creator. No derivatives or adaptations of the work are permitted.
License
CC BY-ND