CFD Simulations on a hexagonal 61-pin wire-wrapped fuel bundle with STARCCM+ and comparison with experimental data

摘要

In this work, several CFD simulations of the hexagonal 61-pin fuel bundle replica of the Thermohydraulic Research Lab at Texas A&M University were performed [1], [2], [3], [4]. The experimental activity has produced a large set of data that have been already compared with simulations, mostly focused on velocity profiles [3], [4], [5], to achieve a deeper understanding of the physical phenomena in this complex geometry. The purpose of the present study is to optimize computational fluid dynamics and validate it against axial friction factor experimental data and predictions of specialized correlations under different flow regimes. The friction factor is of paramount importance in determining many reactor features like pump specification and safety limits.