Method for optimization of enrichment and burnable absorber distributions within fuel assemblies based on manufacturing constraints

Brian Andersen, David Kropaczek

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

Abstract

Athree-dimensional method for optimizing the enrichment and burnable absorber distributions within fuel bundles is developed using Genetic Algorithms as the optimization approach with discrete fuel rod designs as the decision variables. The method allows inclusion of constraints based on fuel manufacturing in the optimization problem. Here, it is applied to the process of BWR bundle design. To model the axial heterogeneous fuel bundle, an approach based on the generation of two dimensional lattice within the different physical axial zones of the BWR bundle is developed accounting for the nominal behavior of the axial power and void distribution. The optimization is applied to the problem of optimizing a GE 10x10 bundle design based on a palette of available fuel rod designs with the objective of minimizing the boiling transition factor and subject to a constraint on bundle reactivity.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationInternational Conference on Physics of Reactors, PHYSOR 2018
Subtitle of host publicationReactor Physics Paving the Way Towards More Efficient Systems
PublisherSociedad Nuclear Mexicana, A.C.
Pages3497-3507
Number of pages11
ISBN (Electronic)9781713808510
StatePublished - 2018
Externally publishedYes
Event2018 International Conference on Physics of Reactors: Reactor Physics Paving the Way Towards More Efficient Systems, PHYSOR 2018 - Cancun, Mexico
Duration: Apr 22 2018Apr 26 2018

Publication series

NameInternational Conference on Physics of Reactors, PHYSOR 2018: Reactor Physics Paving the Way Towards More Efficient Systems
VolumePart F168384-6

Conference

Conference2018 International Conference on Physics of Reactors: Reactor Physics Paving the Way Towards More Efficient Systems, PHYSOR 2018
Country/TerritoryMexico
CityCancun
Period04/22/1804/26/18

Keywords

  • Fuel Cycle
  • Genetic Algorithm
  • Optimization

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