Expertise has been developed in the area of BWR stability analysis, through detailed computational analysis using the coupled systems code TRACE/PARCS as well as consulting work for Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensing activities.
The 3D coupled TH-neutronics systems code TRACE/PARCS allows fine core-wide simulation of the complicated multi-field physical processes involved in BWR instability events. The code has been successfully applied to a variety of real and postulated events, including the Ringhals and Oskarshamn Stability Benchmarks and detailed investigations of multimodal BWR limit cycle behavior with extended harmonic modal analysis.
BWR instabilities are a key concern for the licensing of BWRs. Large power and flow oscillations may threaten the integrity of the fuel under certain Anticipated Transient Without Scram (ATWS) scenarios. A careful review of licensee operating procedures and analysis methodology is required in order to ensure the safe operation of BWRs, particularly for extended flow domain applications.
Principal Investigator
Aaron Wysocki
