Validation and Application of a Coupled Xenon Transport and Reactor Dynamic Model of the Molten Salt Reactor Experiment

摘要: The liquid-fueled molten salt reactors have distinguishing dynamic features compared with solid-fueled reactors, such that conventional system analysis codes are not directly applicable. In this study, a coupled dynamic model of the Molten Salt Reactor Experiment (MSRE) is developed. The coupled model includes the neutronics and single-phase thermal hydraulics modeling of the reactor, and the validated xenon transport modeling from previous studies. The coupled dynamic model is validated against the frequency response and transient response data from the MSRE where good agreement is found. The validated model is then applied to study the influences of xenon and void transport on the dynamic behaviors of the reactor. The plant responses during unique initiating events of off-gas system blockage and loss of circulating void are investigated.