A Transient Simulation Test Rig for Heat Pipe Cooled Space Nuclear Reactors

摘要

The purpose of this study is to design and determine the physical requirements for the construction of a robust test facility for a small space nuclear power system. The test rig will be used to simulate a 1-10kWe nuclear reactor, its electrical generation, and heat removal capabilities. This simulator will be used to explore, test and understand the steady-state and transient operation capabilities of small space nuclear power systems. Various transient modes will be simulated including start up, shutdown, and re-start plus various accident conditions such as loss of heat pipe cooling and loss of radiator cooling. Currently, the system is planned to operate on a variable, electrical heat source directly connected to heat pipes. The heat pipes are to be stainless steel with a sodium or other working fluid. These heat pipes will then pass through a variable heat removal simulator for the shield and then be connected to a power conversion simulator or actual power conversion technologies. The power conversion simulator is then connected to a radiator. The radiator is a water based heat pipe network using fins and connecting plates to approximate the shape of a cone with ridges.