Project Details
Problem Statement
Advanced three-dimensional multiphysics models are needed to perform detailed safety assessments in support of low enriched uranium conversion, 238Pu production and material irradiation activities at HFIR
Technical Approach
COMSOL Multiphysics platform is being used to couple several physics of interest including multilayer heat conduction, turbulent flow, conjugate heat transfer, oxide layer growth, thermal and irradiation swelling to predict operational safety limits
Benefit
Three-dimensional temperature and heat flux distribution help identify thermally sensitive locations (e.g., hot spots and hot streaks) and available margin to safety limits
Sponsor
DOE NNSA Material Management and Minimization (formerly RERTR) and DOE 238Pu Production Programs
Partner
High Flux Isotope Reactor,
Research Reactors Division
Contact
