A simpler approach for predicting LWR vessel failure during severe accident conditions

Using closed-form solution techniques, models were developed for assessing the thermal and structural response of light water reactor (LWR) vessels and penetrations during severe accident conditions. Results from models are displayed as failure maps, generally developed in terms of non-dimensional groups, so that a broader range of reactor design parameters and severe accident conditions can be considered. In this paper, failure maps are used to compare LWR vessel response to three accident conditions. Results discussed within this paper illustrate the importance of vessel and tube geometrical parameters and material properties for predicting which vessel failure mode occurs first.