Numerical Benchmarks for Multiphysics Simulation of Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor Transients

The IAEA organizes International Collaborative Standard Problems (ICSPs) to advance reactor technology. This ICSP developed standardized numerical test problems for selected postulated transients in pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs). The test problems support the development of simulation codes, methods, and coupling frameworks. This publication describes four test problems, participant methodologies, simulations, and lessons learned.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: IAEA

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) plays a pivotal role in advancing reactor technology through the organization of International Collaborative Standard Problems (ICSPs). These ICSPs serve as platforms for fostering collaboration in various areas related to reactor technology, including the development, assessment, and validation of computer codes for design and safety analysis of nuclear power plants.

One of the objectives of the ICSP was to establish and facilitate open access to a comprehensive set of standardized numerical test problems for selected postulated transients in pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs). These manufactured test problems differ from traditional benchmark problems in several ways. Firstly, they are designed for a stylized model of a generic CANDU-6 PHWR, which is a type of pressurized heavy water reactor widely used in Canada and other countries. Unlike benchmark problems, which typically have a prescribed reference solution, these test problems do not have a pre-determined solution.

The primary purpose of these standardized numerical test problems is to support the development of simulation codes, methods, and coupling frameworks. By providing a standardized set of test cases, researchers and engineers can compare and evaluate the performance of different simulation approaches, methodologies, and tools. This helps in improving the accuracy and reliability of simulation models, which are essential for predicting the behavior of nuclear power plants during various scenarios, including accidents and normal operations.

In this publication, the IAEA presents a detailed description of four numerical test problems that were part of the ICSP. Each problem is accompanied by a description of the individual multi-physics methodologies applied by the participants, as well as the simulations carried out to obtain the results. An independent synthesis of the results is also provided, highlighting the common trends and insights derived from the exercise.

Furthermore, the publication serves as a valuable resource for sharing lessons learned from the ICSP exercise. It highlights the challenges encountered, the strategies employed, and the areas where further research and development are needed to enhance the capabilities of simulation codes and methodologies in the field of reactor technology.

Overall, the ICSP initiative by the IAEA plays a crucial role in advancing reactor technology and promoting international cooperation in this critical field. By providing standardized numerical test problems and fostering collaboration among researchers and engineers, the IAEA contributes to the safe and efficient operation of nuclear power plants worldwide.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 297 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789201085221