Improved moderator performance calculations at SNS

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory reached a nominal operating power of 1 MW in September, 2009. Even at ∼2/3 of its designed capacity, SNS already becomes the brightest pulsed neutron source in the world, and a premier facility for material and life science research. To provide accurate target performance estimation and to meet future development needs, we had developed an as-built model for the operating target system of SNS. Based on this asbuilt model, the moderator performance at SNS was recalculated taking advantage of the improved physics and tallying method in the Monte Carlo simulation code, MCNPX, and most recent scattering kernels. The neutron flux intensity spectra, emission time distributions of neutron pulses and moderator brightness profiles regarding the SNS moderator performance are presented and discussed. Compared to the previous results, the current calculations show ∼10-20% lower in flux with improved emission time distributions of neutron pulses. The difference between the two data sets is analyzed, as well as other factors impacting the moderator performance at SNS. The current calculation results will serve as source terms for the instrument performance simulations at SNS.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication10th International Topical Meeting on Nuclear Applications of Accelerators 2011, AccApp 2011
Pages203-211
Number of pages9
StatePublished - 2011
Event10th International Topical Meeting on Nuclear Applications of Accelerators 2011, AccApp 2011 - Knoxville, TN, United States
Duration: Apr 3 2011Apr 7 2011

Publication series

Name10th International Topical Meeting on Nuclear Applications of Accelerators 2011, AccApp 2011

Conference

Conference10th International Topical Meeting on Nuclear Applications of Accelerators 2011, AccApp 2011
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityKnoxville, TN
Period04/3/1104/7/11

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