Evaluation of analytically scaled models of a pressurized water reactor using the RELAP5/MOD3 computer code

This paper performs analytical evaluations for the potential distortions caused by the scaled models using RELAP5/MOD3 computer codes. By use of scaling analysis, two scaled models with the same volumetric ratio are constructed for the Korean next generation reactor (KNGR), which is an advanced light water reactor. The scaling methodology adopted in this paper preserves the two-phase natural circulation similarities between prototype and scaled models. One scaled model is at full height with reduced flow area. The other model is at reduced height with reduced flow area. By using appropriate scale factors the RELAP5/MOD3 input models are developed. Then, the transient responses of the two ideal scaled models are simulated for small break loss of coolant accidents (SBLOCAs) by using the RELAP5/MOD3 computer code. The transient responses of the two scaled models are compared with those of the prototype. The results indicate that qualitative and quantitative similarities are well preserved for both models during SBLOCA with different break sizes.